When Eli returns, I shoot him an annoyed glare on my way into the bathroom. I shower, though I don’t bother washing my hair, then brush my teeth and quickly dress in some joggers and a shirt.
One thing I am enjoying about not going into work: not wearing uncomfortable clothes. My heart lies with oversized comfort.
Eli isn’t in the bedroom when I get back out. I’m both thankful and disappointed.
I slowly make my way down the stairs, finding him cooking breakfast like he does each morning. Eggs, bacon, sausages, mushrooms, and sauteed potatoes are being plated just as I walk in.
“Thank you,” I tell him, kissing him on the cheek as I take both plates to the table.
Then I freeze.
Why did that feel so natural?
I’m supposed to be pretending.
The doorbell rings just as we’re digging into the delicious meal. Before either of us can move, there’s the sound of a key turning and the front door opening.
My eyes widen, a spike of fear alighting in my chest. Eli shakes his head, looking more frustrated than concerned.
Two seconds later, a man walks in. Giant may be more appropriate. He must be at least six-foot-five, with broad shoulders that are encased in a tight fitted top, highlighting the bulging muscles below.
His expression brightens, taking on a mischievous grin as soon as he spots me. “Well, well, well, who is this beautiful creature?”
My cheeks redden at his words.
Eli growls—an actual growl—then stands, facing the giant of a man. “Do not even look at her,” he hisses at him.
The man holds up his hands in surrender. “No harm meant. Just didn’t know you had company.”
Eli’s shoulders stay tense for a moment before he relaxes them. He looks over at me; the moment his eyes land on me, they light up, a smile breaking out over his features.
“This is my angel, Emily.” He gestures to me, then moves his hand towards the man. “Angel, this is Tyler, my best friend.”
Tyler barks out a laugh. “Only friend, more like.”
I smile, despite my anxiety. “Nice to meet you.”
Eli turns his attention once more to Tyler. “What do you want?”
Tyler’s playful demeanour vanishes. “We have a job to do.”
Eli’s irritation is clear. “Today?”
Tyler crosses his arms and raises a brow.
Eli spins, moving towards me with lethal grace. He pulls me from my chair and gathers me into his arms. Nose to my hair, he takes a deep breath. “Sorry Angel, I have to go out.”
Panic spikes in me.
I don’t want to spend another day here alone.
“Can I come with you?” I blurt, pleading.
Eli pauses, taken aback. “I don't think—”
“How can I fall in love with you if I don’t know you?” I whisper, keeping my voice down so his friend doesn’t hear.
That has him pausing.The cogs in his brain whir.