I had settled into the house and my new life, but I was still unsettled. I was starting to think this would be it. Spending my time in the greenhouse, avoiding my husband, and lying like everything was perfect.
“Are you hungry?” Jillian asked as she sat down with her plate of food. “There is so much food up there still.”
I shook my head, and my stomach was too tense to eat right now. I'd rather just eat when I get back home and crawl into bed right afterward.
“I'm not hungry,” I said, giving her a tight smile. I had lied and told her I ate before we came as an easy way to remain seated. “Whose party is this again?”
“Oh, it's Dave's birthday. He's a close friend of Frank’s. They have known each other since middle school. They were actually both aiming to be Alpha growing up.”
“And Frank beat him?”
Jillian waved a hand. “Actually, Dave bowed out. He met his wife and decided he didn't want the role.”
I nodded, spotting him next to Frank. He was wearing a little birthday hat, with a woman in his arms. They looked happy, and I felt jealous for a moment. It seemed everywhere I looked, there was a happy couple. I looked away, bringing my eyes back to Jillian.
“What are you doing now that summer is over?”
“I'll be working in my sister's flower shop,” she said with a smile. You could see the eagerness in her eyes and her voice. “I help her during the colder seasons since her help is generally high school students, and they start school again. It's honestly a nice time for us.”
“That must be fun working closely with your sister.”
Jillian nodded. “It is. We've always had a close relationship. Growing up, we would fight, but we learned it was stupid as we got older.”
I looked past her towards Frank. He was wandering over to the food, grabbing himself some fruit. I couldn't help but look him over. His hair was combed back nicely, and he'd shaved.He looked happy as he walked, talking with people. He had that aura of strength and power. I couldn't help but stare for a moment.
I looked away, knowing I would never make him that happy. Our relationship was just on paper, but that was all.
“By the way, are you still looking for work?”
I looked back at Jillian and nodded. “Yeah, but I'm not sure if anyone will hire me.”
Jillian smirked, leaning a little closer to me. “My sister told me that the lawyer in the building next to her is looking for a receptionist. I think you'd be good there.”
I perked up slightly. “Really?”
She nodded. “Yeah, and she's a really laid-back lady. You should drop your resume off. Considering your line of work, I bet you'd be a shoo-in.”
I was tempted, but wasn't sure about how things were going between Frank and me. I didn't want to do anything that would make it worse.
“I'll think about it.”
“I'd jump on it. It's a good job. Great hours and health insurance. The pay was pretty nice, too, she told me. Won't be up for long before someone snags it.”
“Why did the job open?”
“Her old receptionist ended up moving away. She'd been with her for years.”
I took that into consideration. It must be a good job.
Jillian tapped her hand on the table. “And she was a human, so it isn't like that's going to be a problem.”
I couldn't help but suddenly be interested. That had been my biggest concern: would anyone hire me if I were a human? I rubbed my finger on the rim of my glass. “Maybe I'll apply.”
Jillian reached over and squeezed my arm before pulling herself up. “I want cake. You sure you don't want a slice?”
I nodded. “I'm good.”
“Alright, I'll be right back.” Jillian headed towards the food, and I surveyed the room again. The party was in full swing, with music playing. Kids ran around, and people were talking all around us. In a room completely filled, I felt utterly alone.
