It’s good to see her like this. It’s been a long time.Too long.
Wynter follows me into the kitchen looking smug. “I didn’t force her,” she says quickly. “We made a deal.”
I lift the lid off a boiling pan, letting the steam hit my face. “What deal?”
“I wouldn’t push her to go outside.”
I nod slowly.
“It’s soup,” she adds, quieter now. “She likes my potato and leek.”
“Okay.”
I don’t look at her. “I’m gonna shower and change.”
“Do you want to join us for dinner?”
I check my watch, already knowing my answer. “No. I’ve got plans.”
There’s a pause behind me, as if I can feel her thinking. “Maybe we should talk,” she says. I shake my head before she’s even finished, it’s too late. That moment’s gone. “But you said adults talk,” she pushes. “So, let’s talk.”
I let out a short, humourless laugh. “That was when I thought you were mature enough to act like one.”
My words are harsh, I’m aware. Her face doesn’t hide her hurt well and I almost crumple.Almost.
But then the intercom buzzes, cutting through it. I curse under my breath.She’s early.“Answer that,” I mutter, already moving. “I need to shower quickly.”
I don’t wait for a response.
Cowardly? Maybe. But I was right. Me and Wynter was never going to work.
And so, I’m taking Anika’s advice. I’m moving forward. And not withher.
WYNTER
“I’m here to see Ray,” a female voice speaks through the crackly intercom.
I release the elevator with my heart suddenly racing.
The doors slide open, and a stunning redhead steps into the apartment. She’s all confidence and elegance. Her heels click sharply against the marble floor as she approaches, her black designer dress hugging every curve like it was made for her.
She’s . . . effortless.
I barely have time to take her in before Anika calls my name.
“He’s just in the shower,” I say, forcing a polite smile. “Is he expecting you?”Obviously, he is.
She smiles. “Yes. I’m early. It’s my fault.”
“Take a seat.” I point to the couch.
Anika looks anxious when I move to her eye line. “It’s fine,” I reassure her in a lowered voice. “Just a friend of Ray’s.”
I sit back beside her and stare at the television, praying for Ray to hurry up and get the hell out of here. It’s not nice for Anika, but moving her back to her room will only bring more attention to her.
I almost jump for joy when he finally reappears freshly showered and dressed in a dinner suit. The woman stands and he kisses her on each cheek.
“You look amazing,” he says, smiling before turning to us. “Ladies, this is Heather.” He waits a beat before adding, “Heather, this is Anika, my very good friend, and her carer.”