Page 83 of DadBod

“You know a guy?”

“I do. I know several.”

Smiling, I want to reach up and touch his face, but I hold back. “Thank you.”

“No problem. Glad he got on it.”

The building manager probably feared for his job. I don’t like that idea, but it had been broken for months. It was about time he did something about it.

I lead him up the steps and open my door. He waits until I enter. I half expect him to do what he did last time and pick me up and kiss the stuffing out of me, but sadly, he doesn’t. Instead, he moves into the room, looking at my place. “This apartment is tiny.”

“I prefer cozy and sunny.”

“It’s sunny, that’s for sure.” Rome’s blinking due to the morning sun streaming into my windows. Windows on two sides of my apartment.

The walls are white, and they have to stay that way according to my lease. I had thought about putting up some of that removable wallpaper on one wall, but that was too expensive. It sure would have livened up the place, though.

“No bedroom?”

“Nope. It’s an efficiency.”

“Hm.” Rome walks around the short little wall into my kitchen. He opens my cupboard, there’s only one, and mumbles something I can’t quite make out. He does the same with my fridge.

“What?”

“No food.”

“I’m at your house all the time. Food would be a waste.”

“True.”

Opening the drawer to my dresser, I pick out a clean tee and some jean shorts. I’m taking the kids back to the Pet Project today. I hope Ryann is on board because Bernie is thrilled with the progress she’s making with Charlie.

“You ready for your driver’s exam?”

“Yes.” No.

“What time is the appointment?”

Why is he asking me when he’s the one that made it? “Nine.”

“Maybe you should grab more clothes. We can leave from my place without having to stop here again.”

I look about my apartment and sigh. I miss it. It’s my sanctuary. “Sure. But I’m coming back tomorrow night.” At least I can sleep in before having to go to work.

“You said something about Hamilton.”

“I did. It’s opening next month.” I head for the bathroom but pause. “You should take the kids.”

“I’m sure it’s sold out.” The man has moved on to my living area. His hand is on my dresser.

“Rome.”

“What?”

I swear, he’s about to open the top drawer. The one filled with my underwear. Underwear that will not impress him. “Are you looking for something?” Trying to be nice, here.

“Oh.” He smirks. “Sorry.”

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