Page 12 of Marrying Bonnie

“There’s a second door that leads into the apartment, but it’s usually unlocked. Of course, if you decide to stay here, you’ll be given a key. This was originally built for my Grandma’s mom, who happened to be picky about a great number of things.”

Bonnie turned the knob and stepped into the apartment with a gasp. Jace’s stomach fell to the floor. He should’ve come and looked at the place first. Who knows when Grandpa had last cleaned it?

Jace stepped through the doorway expecting to discover the place in shambles or reduced to more storage.

Instead, he found it was in perfect condition. Bonnie took it all in, appreciation on her face. “Are you serious? This looks more like some fancy room at a bed and breakfast than it does an apartment above a garage.”

His shoulders relaxed. He closed the door behind them and set Gunner back down on the floor. Jace smiled at Bonnie, though she wasn’t paying him any attention. “All furniture is included. But if you have your own, this can be moved into storage. There’s a nice-sized kitchen and all appliances, including a washer and dryer. Everything you need to be self-sufficient.”

Bonnie nodded thoughtfully. “It certainly is beautiful.” She turned to look at him. “I have a guinea pig.”

That was the last thing he expected her to say. “Okay.” He fought back a smile. He tried to picture her sitting around an apartment holding a guinea pig and failed miserably.

“I thought I should mention it in case bringing her would be a problem.”

“As long as she doesn’t run loose, I don’t have an issue with it.” He wanted to ask her if it meant she was considering staying on as Gunner’s nanny, buthe didn’t want to rush her.

Instead, he entertained Gunner while she took a complete look around the apartment. When she returned, Gunner ran up to her. She picked him up and settled him on her hip without a second thought.

“It’s an amazing place. Nicer than my current apartment. And you’re sure I don’t need to pay rent?”

“One hundred percent.” If she had another apartment, there may be fees required for her to get out of the lease. He mentioned as much, but she shook her head.

“I was about to sign a new lease next week. The timing is perfect.” She quieted for several heartbeats. “And you’re sure your sister won’t mind my being here?”

“Not at all. Moving here was her idea in the first place, and she encouraged me to ask you as well.” He offered her a smile. “Not having as many late evenings will be good for everyone.”

As far as Jace’s job went, everything would change drastically, and he had no idea what that really meant. Since Gunner was too young to go out with him, having Gunner—and Bonnie—so close would be a comfort. Maybe he could even drop by at lunch to check on them.

That would mean spending more time not only with Gunner but with Bonnie as well. A thought that was way more appealing than it should be. He bit back a groan.

Is it wrong, God, to pray that she’ll give in and move here with us? Is it messed up that I’m just as nervous she’ll say yes as I am that she might say no?

Bonnie’s voice interrupted his thoughts. “Would it be okay if I let you know tomorrow?”

“Of course. Take several days if you need it. If you could let me know by the end of the week, I’d appreciate it.” He’d need time to hire another nanny, something he didn’t look forward to dealing with. “I apologize for the late notice. If it helps, I didn’t know anything about this myself until Friday night.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “Thank you for being willing to consider it.”

If Bonnie took the apartment, it’d be a lot harder to keep different aspects of his life separate. Even still, if it meant keeping her employed and a part of their lives, the challenge would be worth it.

* * *

“Don’t lookat me like that.” Bonnie threw her brother the stink eye and returned her attention to the baseball launcher. The final ball sailed through the air, and Bonnie had no problem hitting it with the wooden baseball bat in her hands. She loved the resounding crack and vibration the moment the two connected.

She leaned the bat against the fence and faced Wyatt. “Jace is paying me the same, plus the apartment. It’s like a huge raise when you look at it that way. Not having to pay rent is a big thing.”

“I’m not arguing with you.” Wyatt picked up a bat but didn’t move to get into position. “I just want to make sure you’ve thought everything through. Once you’re out there and moved into the apartment, it’ll be a lot harder to quit and walk away if you need to.”

Bonnie could tell by the look on Wyatt’s face that there was something else he wanted to say. She wrinkled her nose at him. “Spill.”

“Have you talked to Lew about this? From what you’ve told me, I can’t imagine he’ll be happy about you moving out there.”

“Not yet.” She’d wanted to get Wyatt’s impression first, but guilt stabbed at her conscience. “And you’re right, he won’t be happy. But I love my job, and this will save me a ton of driving and money. Shouldn’t Lew be supportive of that?”

“Theoretically, yes, he should.” Wyatt paused. “Why are the two of you still together?”

Bonnie wanted to be offended by the question. Instead, she thought about Lew and their relationship—or the lack of one lately—and shrugged. “I’m trying to be patient. Maybe we just need some time. All I know is that I’m not getting any younger, and it’s not like I have a lot of prospects.” She sounded pathetic.

Wyatt gave her a sharp look. “It’s not like you’re an old spinster, Bon. Come on.” He lifted his bat and gave an exaggerated swing. “Look, I’m not trying to judge. If you think Lew could be the one, then far be it from me to discourage you from waiting things out. But if he’s not…” He shrugged and stepped up to bat.

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