Page 80 of A Bossy Roommate
However, as I think it over, it seems increasingly unlikely. We would surely have noticed a motion out front—it’s aglassdoor for crying out loud. As far as his presence goes, maybe there had been an unexpected change of plans in his schedule. It happens all the time.
I straighten my shoulders.
“Hello, Mr. Huxley,” I say cheerfully, not letting any of my concern show. “Is there something I can help you with? I don’t have you on the appointment list…”
“No need, Eden.” His attention is fully on Carter. “We need to talk.”
“In my office.” Carter motions to his open door.
Huxley struts past him. Behind his back, Carter and I exchange looks.
“You’re good to go home, Eden.” Carter’s voice is back to his formal work tone. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Okay, Mr. Bancroft. Have a good evening.”
I have a feeling whatever conversation is going to happen is one I want no part of. As quickly as I can, I finish the task I’m working on and gather my things. I’m sure I’ll hear about the impromptu meeting when Carter gets home. I startle Gwen with a greeting as I walk by—as always, she’s completely absorbed in her work—but she quickly recovers and waves back warmly.
I don’t botherto use the train or an Uber, needing the long walk to help clear my mind. I’m not as worried about Auntie as Carter is, only because to me she doesn’t feel or look sick, and she’s expressed to us plenty of times that she doesn’t want us to treat her like a helpless invalid. And her coughing fits? It’s almost as if they make their appearances precisely when it’s most convenient for her.
Still, I take Carter’s concerns very seriously. What if he’s right and her health has deteriorated to the point it’s clouding her judgment? And what if she decides to stay longer? What will the next few days look like? I hate the thought of her being alone in the apartment should something happen. Then I remember Hattie, and that helps ease some of the worries. Hattie will keep a watchful eye on her. After all, she watches that hallway like an eagle guarding its nest.
On a complete self-centered train of thought, it’s obvious that the sizzling spark between Carter and me isn’t going to stop any time soon. The tension between us is…hot. It’s undeniable. Strong. Powerful. And it’s getting hotter. That’s what makes the whole situation so very difficult and…so very,veryenticing. Thepush and pull between us makes me want to forget my vow and rules. It makes me want to ignore the fact that Carter has the potential to shatter my heart even more profoundly than Rob ever did. Worst of all, I know that the idea of our marriage charade and how two days are quickly turning into a whole week should make me concerned, but it doesn’t. Deep down, it makes me excited.
I sigh heavily and try to push the swirl of thoughts to the back of my mind. It’s going to be okay. It’ll be fine.
My stomach grumbles as I pass a few food vendors on the street. I can’t wait until my paycheck. One of the first things I’m going to do is try one of these delicious-smelling delicacies such as the hot, freshly baked pretzels. Next on my list are the decadent, mouth-watering cinnamon rolls, with a side of roasted nuts. The artisanal ice cream with seasonal fruit looks yummy and refreshing too. And what in the name of all that is holy aregourmetplant-based hotdogs?Heaven have mercy. As I venture farther, the peaceful serenity of Central Park envelops me. I love this city. Walking the NYC streets brings me a comfort I hadn’t expected. The city has already started to feel like home to me, and if I think about it hard enough, I can see myself possibly staying longer than six months—and as far as Carter is concerned, that would undoubtedly be the worst idea ever.
When I get backto the apartment, Hattie’s apartment door opens. “Oh, Eden, good evening!” she calls with the brightest smile. “Did you have a good day at work?”
“Hi, Hattie. Yeah, it was nice, thank you for asking.”
“Eleanor and I had the most lovely day, and now she has returned to your reside—” As if she has a sixth sense, Hattie suddenly frowns and steps out of her apartment toward me. “Something troubling you, my dear?”
“Nothing.”
“Come now, Eden. I’ve lived long enough to discern when a lady is holding a concern within her heart.”
“Can’t get anything past you, can I?” I try to smile. “It’s nothing major, I assure you. I’ve had a lot going on, and it’s been a little difficult juggling all of it.”
Hattie gives me a sympathetic look. “You do have a lot on your plate, my dear. The recent move, the new job, the shared dwelling with your boss who’s now your,” she makes quote fingers, “husband, no less…” She motions to Carter’s apartment, “…and to top it off, a guest who has chosen to extend her visit.”
Her voice is low, thankfully, so I’m not worried about Auntie somehow hearing through the wall. Unlike the apartment itself, the hallway is a bit more soundproof.
“How is she doing, by the way?” I ask. “What did you do together?”
“Oh, we had a marvelous time with the cats. The energy that woman possesses is really remarkable! Rest assured, she is in excellent spirits. But enough about us—let’s discuss you, dear. You know, if ever you feel the need to unburden your heart, I’m always here to lend a friendly ear.”
“Thanks, Hattie. I really appreciate—” I suddenly sneeze and, sure enough, when I look past Hattie, three furry cats have wandered out of her apartment to see what’s going on.
Hattie shoos them back in, but one of them, Myrtle, won’t listen. As she fights to get the cat back into the apartment, the elevator pings, and Carter steps out.
“Hey, you’re home earlier than I thought you’d be,” I tell him, hastily trying to wipe my watery eyes on the back of my hand.
“Are you just getting in?” He glances at his watch. “You should have been home like thirty minutes ago.” In one smooth motion, he extends a handkerchief to me.
“I walked. Needed the fresh air to clear my head,” I explain. I motion to Hattie, but when I look, she has disappeared back into her apartment, shooing the cats in. “Everything go okay with Huxley?”
Carter makes a noncommittal noise, and I watch him reach to unlock our door. But before he slides in the key, he turns, and in a low voice he says, “Wait. Before we go in, we need to talk about what to do about my aunt.”