Page 119 of Rare Blend
She squeals so loudly it hurts my ears.
“Will you calm down? People are trying to work, which is what you should be doing.”
I’m being a dick on purpose. I don’t want Tawny or the rest of my family putting their noses in my business, and spooking Marisa.
She hops up from her chair and some of the coffee in her mug sloshes over the rim and splatters on the floor. “Does everyone know? Have you told your family?”
I glance at my watch, hoping time has miraculously moved an hour so I can leave and get to my meeting at the warehouse.
It hasn’t.
“I didn’t realize I needed to make an announcement on matters pertaining to my personal life.”
Instead of answering me, she sets her mug on the edge of my desk and starts vigorously texting. No doubt informing everyone in our entire family.
“Stop being so moody. We’re happy for you, that’s all.”
“Go be happy for me at your desk.”
She tosses her head back, likely frustrated that I’m not divulging every single detail of shit that doesn’t concern her.
“You know, I thought you’d be a little more pleasant, maybe nicer, after an amazing date with your dream girl. Guess I was wrong.”
I may not be acting like it, but I don’t think I’ve ever felt so happy. Waking up this morning with Marisa wrapped around me, getting ready alongside each other for a boring workday, it gave me a glimpse into what life could be like with her.Squeezing together in the small bathroom of the cottage as we brushed our teeth, hearing her hum as she did her makeup, giving her a kiss goodbye before we went our separate ways, I couldn’t have asked for a better morning. A random Monday morning made all the better because of the amazing woman I got to share it with. I could get used to it—I want to get used to it.
Just as Tawny’s about to walk out I say, “I am nicer…to her. The rest of you I tolerate.”
She squeals again, but this time she’s smart enough not to linger.
By two o’clock, I’m considering leaving early. After Marisa sent me a text at noon asking if it was okay if she worked the remainder of her day at my cottage to keep Goose company, I haven’t been able to focus on anything besides getting home to her.
As I’m gathering my things to head out, Tawny emerges with a weird look on her face.
“Whatever it is, it can wait.” There’s no way anything is so important it can’t be handled by someone else, or wait until tomorrow.
She winces. “It actually can’t. More likehecan’t wait.”
I still, my forehead creasing as I look at her with complete confusion. “What?”
Her eyes close like it pains her to tell me whatever it is that’s going on.
“Travis…he’s downstairs.”
My stomach sinks at the sound of his name. Why the hell would Travis come here? What could be so important? He wouldn’t show up without a good reason. I don’t owe himanything, and I should refuse, but my curiosity gets the best of me.
“Uh…okay. Send him up.”
Tawny’s eyes go wide. “Are you sure?”
“Just send him up,” I bite.
She starts to slink away. “I’m not going to have to call the cops, am I?”
I shoot her a deadpan look. “Jesus Christ. No. It’s the middle of the day. Send him up.”
Besides the fact that we’re grown ass men, I’m not about to fight him over a woman I don’t give a shit about.
Forcing myself to keep my expression neutral and stay composed, I wait with clenched fists and a pounding heart for Travis to get here.
