Now, I just have to find a way to tell Shane that, and grant him the courtesy he never gave me.
I sigh, turning my attention to Bubbles, who has her front legs around my waist like she’s sensing I need a hug.
Side-eyeing the cupcakes, I warn her against stealing one and point to her breakfast.
When she finally leaves my side, I consider texting Lucky. He never replied last night after my voice messages, leaving me feeling ignored and anxious.
Speak of the devil. He appears in the form of a text message.
Lucky:
Morning, cupcake.
The smile that lifts my lips is so wide it makes my face hurt. Then I click on his text, and all my shame comes rushing back.
I woke this morning with a flurry of vague memories and an empty bottle of wine at my side. Annabelle was right when she left it behind with a warning. The red ones are lethal. I’d unlocked my phone, and the evidence of my bad behavior was waiting to ridicule me.
Now, it’s ridiculing me again.
My face is met by the palm of my hand, and I don’t even fret about the frosting in my hair.
Dollancie:
God, I’m so sorry for my behavior last night. I wasn’t even sure I’d hear from you again. I was giving you until midday.
Lucky:
And at midday, were you hunting me down?
If that’s the case, I probably should have held out a little longer.
Ambrose appears in the doorway from the dining room, and the kitchen instantly darkens. He doesn’t meet my eyes. He just clicks his fingers and steals the attention of my furry friend. She follows him around the room, tracing his every step.
He’s fully dressed today, wrapped up warm as he takes her outside. I relax a little, my stiff body loosening as he steps outside.
Looking around this space, it’s clear to see the differences he’s made here now that I know he’s home. It was so naïve of me to think that squatters had left food behind. It was so stupid of me to believe there was an issue with the electricity and water, given that they both worked perfectly and I hadn’t been billed.
Yes, I was in a state of denial.
I return to my phone, happy to forget my own stupidity.
Dollancie:
Too late now. But I am sorry if I made you feel…
uncomfortable.
You were quiet afterward.
Lucky:
You made me feel something, that’s for sure.
And I’m sorry I was quiet. I was sick last night.
I think I may have had too much whiskey.
Dollancie:
