Page 30 of Off-Limits
“Of course, I fucking do!” Arrie exclaims, enveloping her in a hug.
I finish my coffee in one gulp, my eyes still on hers, and then I’m stepping out of the loungeroom.
I need some fucking air because I can’t fucking breathe in there. With one last lingering look in the direction I just left, I wonder if I’ve bitten off more than I can chew.
Chapter Eight
DOTTIE
I’m relieved Arrie loves the mural, but as I focus on the space Damon just occupied, I can’t help feeling guilty that I’m keeping things from her. One of those things has just left the damn room.
A filthy, dirty secret.
Did he watch me?
The thought causes me to shiver.
“Are you cold?” Arrie asks, her arms still wrapped around me.
“Someone walked over my grave.” I lie, forcing a laugh and moving out of her hold.
“Are you sure you’re ok?”
“Yeah, just tired. I was up trying to get this done, and then your dad came home.”
“I’m so happy to have him home. Alright, I’m heading to check on the restaurant this morning, and seeing dad is home for a bit, I’ll catch you this evening.”
“Shit. I forgot to tell you. Harry asked me to come out for some drinks.”
“And you agreed?” she asks, raising an eyebrow.
“I said if I finish the sketch then I would.”
“You know he has it bad for you?”
“I set him straight.”
“Right.”
“What?”
“Nothing.”
“Are you busy tonight?” I ask, changing the subject.
“I’ll be with Adam. Connor might pop in for a few drinks,” she says, blushing. “But we could come out with you if you want a buffer?”
“That would be amazing.”
“It’s settled. I’ll send a group chat to the boys.”
“Group chat?” I answer, smirking.
“Shut it, wench. This is not the time.”
I throw my hands up in mock surrender.
“I hate you.” she says, sounding exasperated.
