Page 40 of Mr. Swoony

He shrugs. “I won’t be home a ton is what I’m saying. So, you’ll have your space. I’m not doing this as a fixer.”

“Then why?” I’m genuinely curious why he would want me to move in with him when I’m not close to being ready to be with anyone.

“Because walking out on your wedding was a step toward a new future, and I don’t want to stop that progress. It’s admirable what you’ve done and… everyone needs a person who believes in them around to support them.”

“You don’t even really know me.”

“Listen, take out all the shit people would say, since I know that’s the reason you’re resistant to the idea. You’ll never find a place right away. Not a decent one at least.”

“I could stay here.” I motion toward the house behind us.

His eyebrows rise, and I know we’re thinking the same thing. Henry and Jade are finally starting a life together, why would I want to intrude on that? I wouldn’t.

I sigh. “Yeah, I couldn’t do that to them. Plus, after I break off my wedding, I really don’t want to live with the happiest couple I know.”

He chuckles. “Try being around them and my sister and Rowan. Come live the single life with Tweetie and me over at the Nest.” He knocks my shoulder with his.

“Conor…” I’m not sure how to answer.

“Don’t think about what other people are going to say. What do you want? And I promise to keep my hands to myself… until you maul me.”

I giggle and shake my head. Conor’s right, I’ll never find somewhere decent in a week. Nor do I want to sign a lease for an apartment when I don’t know what my future holds yet. I’ve done enough settling lately, and when I woke up this morning, I loved the feeling that all my decisions were mine again.

“Are you sure?”

“It’s up to you. You’re the ruler of your life now. I’m just offering you shelter while you figure it out.”

His offer is enticing. But my attraction to Conor is what scares me. How can I possibly be around him every day and not cross that line with him?

“I’m messy,” I say.

“I have a housekeeper.”

“I can’t cook.”

“I can.”

“I’m moody.”

“I’ll make you a sign to wear around your neck that says don’t talk to me today.”

“You’re positive?”

“I knew you liked the thought of it.” His self-assured grin tells me once again how bad of an idea this is. But I can’t seem to care.

“I admit that I do, but if it ends badly, we’re going to make it uncomfortable for all of them.” I nod toward the house.

“What if it doesn’t end badly?”

He’s right. Given the situation I just got out of, perhaps I am being a pessimist. Maybe that’s what I like about Conor. His optimism.

He stands and steps in front of me. “This is your decision. If you say no, that’s okay. It’s an option, but I can’t deny I wouldn’t mind being alongside you as you start this new chapter. In friendship only… at first.” He slides by me, stepping up to the front door.

“Conor,” I say, not taking the time I should to make this decision, “I pay my share.”

He chuckles. “Deal.”

Shit, just like that, I’m moving in with Conor Nilsen. But it’s temporary. A month at most. But it will be an experience, I’m sure.

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