Page 30 of Mr. Almost

“Are you okay?” Tristen asks, voice full of concern.

“Fine,” I say as I dive into the room, shutting the door behind me.

Sitting on the floor, I lean against the door and take a deep breath.

That was too close.

God, how fucked up is it that I would rather drop to the floor than have to see my daughter’s grandmother?

Reaching into my pocket, I pull out my phone and shoot off a text.

Me

It would have been nice to know that your mother was stopping by.

Mason

What are you talking about?

“Shit,” I mutter to myself as I type back a reply.

Me

You didn’t know your mother was coming to the hotel?

Instead of texting me back, my phone rings.

“Yeah?” I ask quietly.

“What do you mean my mother is here?”

“Exactly that. I don’t know how much clearer I could say it,” I deadpan.

Mason groans. “Fantastic.”

“Glad to know I’m not the only one who doesn’t want to see her.”

Mason chuckles. “Trust me, no one wants to see her. Just stay out of sight for right now while I deal with her. I don’t want her harassing you.”

“I have to get back to the desk,” I say weakly.

“I’m sure Tristen has it under control. Just do as I ask, please.”

“Okay,” I concede.

“I’ll let you know when she’s gone,” Mason says before hanging up.

Sighing, I push myself off the ground and look around.

Now what am I supposed to do?

The door creaks open, and I move out of the way.

Tristen pops her head through the gap with a frown on her face. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine,” I lie.

Tristen shoots me a look that says I’m full of shit.

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