Page 225 of Champagne Nights

“You know how she gets when she’s upset.”

The moment we stepped inside the cafeteria, the corners of my mouth curved upward when I saw Ellie staring at the bagels. Walking over to her, I lightly touched her arm.

“Hey.” She smiled.

“I thought you were visiting your friend?”

“I am. The lactation nurse is working with her right now, so I told her I’d return in a bit.”

“Thinking about getting a bagel?” I signed with a smile.

“Yeah. I didn’t have a chance to eat before I left this morning.”

“You should have more than just a bagel,” I signed.

“I think a bagel is the safest choice here.”

“You’re probably right.” I chuckled. “We’re going to sit down. Join us.”

“Hi, Ellie.” Addison walked over to where we stood.

“Hi, Addison.” She smiled as she gave her a small wave.

I bought the three of us bagels and juice, and we took a seat at one of the tables.

“Any news on your dad yet?” Ellie signed.

“He’s out of surgery and in the ICU. The doctor said the surgery went well, and we’ll be able to see him when he wakes up,” I spoke as I signed.

“That’s great news.” The corners of her mouth curved upward.

After talking for a while, Ellie got up from the table.

“I’m going to visit my friend now and then head home. I have to do some work on a website. I promised I would have it finished by tomorrow.”

“I would like to see you tonight,” I signed.

“I’d like to see you too. I can come over to your place.”

Suddenly, a sick feeling took root in the pit of my stomach. Kirsten still had some of her things at my place, and I couldn’t risk Ellie seeing them.

“Actually, my housekeeper is back from vacation today, and I’m sure she’s going to be there late cleaning. I can come to your place, and we’ll order some dinner. How’s six o’clock?”

“That’s fine.” Ellie smiled. “I’ll be done with work by then. It was nice to see you again, Addison.”

“We should go out sometime.” Addison smiled.

“I’d like that.”

Addison grabbed my arm the moment Ellie walked away.

“OH MY GOD! I love her. You have my approval, big brother.” She grinned.

“Thanks. I appreciate that.” I let out a chuckle.

“I’ve never seen you use sign language before. You two looked so beautiful talking. Can you teach me?”

“You really want to learn?” I asked.

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