Okay, I’m officially sweet on Kev. It’s funny how some people you meet in life just emit a trustworthy aura that you instantly connect with. Kev is one of those people.
“Let’s head up, and I’ll show you Beth’s apartment,” Dameon calls, leading the way toward the elevators. We follow behind, bidding Kev goodbye with a wave. “There are two elevators: one for the residences, the other private, with only one stop—the penthouse.”
We step into the residents’ elevator and exit on the fifth floor. “Welcome to your new home, Beth.” Dameon unlocks the first door on our left, pushing it open. Beth enters first, gasping dramatically.
“Holy fucking shit.”
“Beth, language!” I chide, though I couldn’t care less about her choice of words. But since we’re in company, I figure I should at least appear to play the role of the responsible older sister and guardian.
She’s not wrong, though, this place is epic. The sleek interior in a muted palette is all quiet luxury and lived-in comfort.
Beth spins around, taking in the open-plan living and dining areas. “Can you believe this?”
“Do you like it?” I ask.
“What kind of question is that? This place is insane. And I get to stay here on my own?” she asks hopefully, but with a hint of healthy skepticism. Ever since I mentioned she would have her own place I could sense her excitement. I know she craves privacy and independence, something her illness has deprived her of. This is the perfect opportunity for her to flex those independent muscles.
“Not exactly,” Dameon interjects. “Allow me to introduce you to Martha. She’ll be your guardian and housekeeper.”
I hadn’t even noticed the elderly woman standing there, too caught up in this gorgeous place and Beth’s excitement.
“Hi, Martha, wonderful to meet you,” I say, extending my hand. She smiles, grasping my palm gently.
“Martha was actually my nanny when I was growing up; I trust her implicitly,” Dameon says. “And she’s Kevin’s wife. Honestly, I’d be lost without them. When I moved to Australia, I made sure to bring them both with me.”
Ah, that makes sense. They both exude that same calm, genuine, and friendly energy. I can see they would make a lovely couple.
Beth gives Martha a shy smile and a soft hello.
“Lovely to meet you both.” Martha’s voice is serene, like a warm hug.
“You’re going to be on your best behavior for Martha, right?” I say, giving Beth a gentle nudge.
“Yes, Mom,” she says, rolling her eyes.
Dameon clears his throat, stepping forward. “Alright, now that introductions are done, I’m sure you’ll want to check out your room and get settled in, Beth. Kevin will bring up your stuff shortly, and Martha will help you unpack.”
“Hell yeah!”
Before she has a chance to dart off and explore, I pull her into a hug and whisper in her ear. “I’m only upstairs if you need me, okay? I’ll be back down in an hour to check on you.” I don’t want her to think I’m abandoning her. We’ve never lived apart. My trip to New York was the first time we’ve been separated.
“Can you please stop worrying? Seriously, I’m good. Better than good, actually. This place is unreal.” I release her from the hug, meet her eyes and find sincerity shining back at me. After a moment’s pause, I relent.
“Alright, I’ll be back in an hour.”
With another eye roll, she dashes off in search of her bedroom, without looking back.
“I know this must be hard for you,” Martha murmurs, “but rest assured, she’s in good hands, dear. I’ll take care of her as if she were my own.”
I scrutinize Martha just as I did Beth, searching for any hint of insincerity. “Thank you, Martha. I really appreciate it.”
“Martha has been briefed on Beth’s health situation, and she’ll notify you immediately if anything changes,” Dameon adds.
Right. Trust. It’s been Beth and I against the world for a very long time. While it’s a relief to share the burden with someone, it’s also difficult to relinquish control.
Thanking Martha once more, I trail behind Dameon as we leave the apartment and take the elevator to the penthouse.
“I want you to know, I trust Martha with my life. I wouldn’t hire just anyone to look after Beth.” He dips his head, searching for my eyes.
