Page 117 of More than Paper

I nod, relieved. “I know. But I’ll be there to make sure you are taken care of.”

She laughs. “I bet you will.”

My phone rings.

She grabs it off the table, and her face falls as she hands it to me. “It’s Valeria.”

I answer it. “Hey, V.”

“Cindy is caught up at work. Can we meet for a late lunch at three tomorrow?”

“Sure.”

“We need to find a place close to her shoot.”

“Text the location, and Quinn and I will meet you there.”

“Okay, darling. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Bye.” I hang up the phone. “Cindy can’t get out of work. They want us to meet them tomorrow at three for a late lunch.”

Quinn doesn’t say anything.

“What’s wrong?”

She gets out of bed. “Nothing. I need a shower.”

“Are you sure nothing is wrong?”

“Yes.” She goes into the bathroom, and I hear the water turn on.

I get out of bed and walk into the bathroom. She’s already in the shower, her eyes closed, with water cascading down her body. I step into the shower behind her and scare her.

She gasps. “What are you doing sneaking up on me like that?”

“I think you need some help.”

“Is that so?”

“Yep. And I’m not going to miss an inch.”

* * *

Quinnand I haven’t been apart since I arrived Thursday. Besides the gala, it’s just been Quinn and me, having fun. It’s been perfect.

On Saturday, we get to the restaurant, and Valeria and Cindy are in the back corner booth. It’s slightly private, which is good since V is recognized everywhere she goes.

They stand up and give Quinn and I kisses on our cheeks, and we all sit.

Something seems off with Quinn, but I can’t put my finger on it.

She’s probably just nervous about the move.We spent the cab ride over talking about that, so I figure that is what is wrong.

The waitress pours all of us coffee. Quinn grabs her cup with both hands and takes a sip. When she sets it down, Cindy grabs her hand. “Wow! That’s beautiful.”

Valeria grabs her hand as well. “Is that an actual pink diamond?”

I beam. “Yep. Rare like my doll.”

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