I praised the food and his cooking skills. The eggs were the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet tomato flavor. Even Robin got a few bites.
“How can he still be hungry?” Sebastian took another bite. “I fed him this morning.”
I dipped bread in the egg yolk and gave it to Robin. He snatched it eagerly.
“He’s not hungry, he’s craving this. Can’t blame him.” I took another bite.
“Aren’t we supposed to be disciplining him? This shorty has us wrapped around his tiny paw.”
“Aww, look at him.” I was smitten. “How can you look into those eyes and say no?”
“I don’t know, but we need to learn.”
After eating, I rinsed the dishes and found Sebastian in the bedroom, dressed and fastening his jeans.
“Thanks for breakfast.” I picked up my keys. “I have to go now. Are you leaving too?”
“I’ll wait for Jan.” He pulled me into his arms for a long kiss. “Thanks for fixing the shower.”
“You’re welcome. It was simple really. You could’ve done it yourself.”
“We both know that’s not true, but thanks for protecting my fragile male ego.”
I scoffed. “Fragile, my ass. There ain’t nothing fragile about you, babe.”
We kissed again, until my knees softened.
“When will you be home tonight?” Sebastian nuzzled my ear.
“Not sure. Maybe seven or eight. I’m getting a late start. You?”
“A lot sooner. I’ll make us something good for dinner.”
“Sounds great. Want me to bring anything?”
“Just yourself.”
“Will do. Have a good day.”
I gave him one last kiss and rushed to the door. I hadn’t showered, so I was in a serious hurry. As I descended the steps, my mind repeated a desperate prayer:Please, don’t let me bump into Janine.
I was almost there when I heard the clacking of heels. I fumbled with my keys, knowing I’d never unlock my door in time. I was trapped in a horror movie, where the heroine gets so close to escaping, but never makes it. Neither did I.
Janine walked down the hall, her beige suit perfectly pressed, hair and makeup flawless. She carried a Gucci handbag in one hand, and a cat carrier in the other. She held my gaze as she stopped at the base of the staircase.
I forced a smile. “Janine, hi.”
“Hello, Jesse.”
Her cold, formal tone told me we were back to square one. I’d expected this, which explained my dread. Still, she was the most important person in Sebastian’s life. If I wanted to be part of his world, I had to get along with his big sister.
I cleared my throat. “It’s nice to see you.”
“I’m not sure I can say the same.”
My jaw dropped. She wasn’t pulling her punches.
I sucked in a breath. “Listen, Janine—”
