Page 4 of Stolen Moments
“Yes, I’m here.”
“Well, would you be okay with that?”
“I’ll have to let you know, Mr. Rossiter. I’ve had a few offers.” There was silence on the line, and Melia wondered what possessed her to say that. She took a deep breath. “That’s perfect. When do you need me by?”
“As soon as possible. If you’re sure…”
Luka and Melia coordinated the details of her moving in during the weekend, so he could be there to introduce her to Susan and help her unpack her bags.
Melia hung up the phone and leaned her forehead into her hands. Victor found her like this when he walked into the apartment.
“Oh, honey, there will be other jobs.” Victor put his hand on her shoulder.
“I got it.”
“What?” Victor clapped his hands together.
“I said, I got it!” Melia raised her head and grinned.
“Oh, girl. Tell me all about it.” He sat at the table, looking at her.
“Well, the patient’s name is Susan. Her husband is looking for an in-home aide for her end-of-life care.”
“Ooh, girl, that’s the best news I’ve gotten all day. When do you leave?”
Melia laughed. “This weekend.”
“Thank the lord, Jesus. Hallelujah!” Victor playfully nudged her.
“Whatever, you know you will miss me. Let’s celebrate.” Melia grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses from the cupboard.
“Here’s to finally being able to bring some men home. Explaining why a lady friend is sleeping on the couch has not been easy.” They clinked their glasses and each took a sip. “Speaking of which, is the husband good looking?”
“Victor!”
“What? Honey, his wife isdying. He won’t be married for long!”
Melia rolled her eyes. “You’re incorrigible, Victor.”
“Well?”
“Yeah, he’s good looking. So what?”
“Well, with that attitude, you’re not getting anything from anybody.”
Melia looked into the wine glass and saw herself silhouetted in the dark liquid. “He’s got these beautiful blue eyes. And dark hair. This ‘just-fucked’ hair. But he’s got so much sorrow in his face. He seems to always be frowning.” The silence from across the table made her look up. Victor’s expression startled her. “What?”
“You got itbaaad!”
“What? No!”
But Melia smiled inwardly at the thought.
Chapter Three
Susan looked at Luka with that expecting expression he had grown to know so well throughout their relationship.
“I called.”