“My, my.” She bats her lids. “So formal today.”
“I’m on my way out—”
“I saw your name on a building the other day and have been meaning to ask… you’re going private?”
“Yes. I still have some things to sort out first, but hopefully soon.”
She gets that twinkle in her eyes that I’ve seen so many times before—the same one I get from women looking to snag a husband, when they hear I’m a doctor. To be fair to Suzan, she began flirting with me the day she moved in, before she found out what I do for a living.
“Well, I just might have to make an appointment when you’re up and running.”
“Thanks. I appreciate the support.”
I try to move away, but her voice stops me. “We should celebrate. Maybe you’ll finally take me up on that dinner invitation. I’m an excellent cook.”
“Actually, I’m seeing someone.”
“Oh.” The twinkle disappears. “Serious?”
“Yes.”
I know I’m being an ass, but I can’t help it right now. I need to get to Ellen and Suzan’s wasting precious time.
“Okay, well… see you around.”
“Take care, Suzan.”
I hop in the car, quickly maneuvering onto the street. The entire drive, all I can think is that I’m losing her. I’m losing her before I even really have her. I can’t let that happen. I won’t.
No matter what it takes, Ellen Hunter will be mine.
My phone rings and I look to see Gage’s name flashing on the screen. I think the fucker can hear my thoughts.
“You finally come up for air, bro?” I joke.
He chuckles. “Just for a minute.”
“I don’t even have to ask how the honeymoon is going. I’ve barely heard from you.”
“Man, you know how long it’s been since I’ve been able to just relax? Not worry about work, the club, or some motherfucker offing me?”
“I know. After the year you guys had, you and Raven deserve this break.”
“Too bad it has to end. I just called to see if you can pick us up at the airport tomorrow.”
“Sure. Just text me the details of your flight.”
“Got it. How about you? You good?”
“Yeah. We’ll talk when you get back.”
“Fuck, man.” He sighs. “I know when you want to ‘talk,’ it’s serious. Is everything okay?”
Sometimes I think we know each othertoowell. I don’t want to ruin the time he has left with Raven, so I try to pacify him. “It’s nothing bad. Don’t worry about it.”
“You sure?”
“Positive.”