Chapter Seventeen
Licia
Two weeks, six days, and a couple of hours. That’s exactly how long it had been since Kevin’s crisis, and I hadn’t gone a single day without seeing him. Some might call it impulsive, but I couldn’t stop myself from being intentional about his care and recovery.
Even though he was stronger now, I still treated him like he might have another crisis if I took my eyes off him. He had become the center of my universe, and I didn’t know how to pull back, even if I wanted to.
I woke up filled with energy, eager to start the day.It was the perfect morning for a jog.I quickly got dressed, pulling on my favorite running shoes and a light jacket.
The early morning air was crisp and invigorating, promising a day full of possibilities. I slid my AirPods into my ears, selected my workout playlist, and hit the pavement with a steady rhythm.
As I ran, I let the music drown out my thoughts, focusing on the steady beat of my feet hitting the ground. The neighborhoodwas still mostly asleep, the streets quiet except for the occasional car passing by.
It was my favorite time of day—peaceful, with just enough chill in the air to keep me moving at a brisk pace.
When I returned, I was surprised to see Joey leaning against her car in front of my house. She looked slightly out of place, scrolling through her phone with a concentrated frown, her sleek business attire contrasting sharply with the relaxed, early-morning atmosphere.
I hadn’t expected her,but it was a pleasant surprise. She was on a call, so I waited for her to finish.
“Hi, Joey,” I said, taking out my AirPods and wiping the sweat from my brow.
“Hey, you’re up bright and early today.” She pocketed her phone and gave me a tired smile.
“Some days come with a special kind of Zen, so you just have to go with the flow.”
She nodded in agreement, her usual spark dulled by whatever had her so preoccupied. “That’s so true.”
“So, what brings you by? You don’t usually show up this early,” I asked, crossing my arms as I leaned against the wall.
“My love, it’s actually work. That call I just finished? It was a client who was supposed to close on a property this morning, but he just called to say he’s out of town for a business meeting. Can you believe that?”
“Whoa, that’s not cool at all. He didn’t give you a heads up, even though you had an appointment?”
“I won’t lie, Licia, I tried so hard not to lose my cool on him. Had to keep my ‘professional disposition,’” she whined, making air quotes. “But I’ve got a plan to get back at him.” A mischievous smile spread across her lips, a hint of the old Joey shining through.
I couldn’t help but laugh. “What’s the plan?”
“I’m going to sell that property to another bidder, ASAP. Even if it’s not at the same price he was offering.”
“Isn’t that bad business? Won’t that hurt your reputation?”
“Maybe… but at least he’ll be pissed.”
“So you’re going to take a loss just to get back at your client?” I laughed.
“Joey, you’re adorable when you’re angry, but this might not be the best way to handle it.”
“It’s not funny, Licia. It’s not.” She scowled, but I could tell she was rethinking her plan, her frown deepening into one of contemplation.
“Fine, I get it. You’re upset. Let’s go inside and have something nice for breakfast. It might lighten your mood and give you a fresh perspective.”
“You should have said that from the beginning,” Joey smiled as she headed for the door, her mood already lifting at the prospect of food.
“You’re impossible,” I laughed, following her in.
I whipped up some French toast and hot chocolate while Joey watched TV, sprawled comfortably on my couch like she owned the place.
She didn’t lift a finger to help, and I didn’t really mind. This was our routine—me playing chef while she indulged in a little lazy luxury.
