It’s like we’re rapidly going through the states of a relationship, but out of order. Comfortable companionship, support, and flirtation.
“But, uh, speaking of that, do you happen to have a copy of the marriage license around here? I need a copy.”
“Do I want to know why?”
“Probably not. The second rule of the Marriage of Convenience Club is we don’t talk about the Marriage of Convenience Club.”
I chuckle. “Got it. I like this policy. I think it works for us.”
Us. Now there is an interesting notion. Who’d imagine little ‘ole me interacting with a beast like Grey? Compared to Todd, this guy is completely wild, whereas my ex wore tailored suits and rarely had a hair out of place. He was fit but not capable. It’s obvious Grey puts his body to good use with the muscles capping his shoulders, the bulge of his biceps, and the cut cords wrapping around his forearms.
He’s definitely the strong, silent type and seems like he prefers to observe. His dirty blond hair and gray eyes remind me of the LARP warriors the guys in college fantasized about being.
I recall the breathy little whoosh that left my chest when I was done trimming his hair and beard. Hidden underneath all that mess is a very handsome man and I don’t even think he realizes it.
But I do.
Our gazes meet for another curious moment as if we’re wondering how far to take this thing. Maybe because we both have the same unspoken question, we realize we’re on the same team. Or perhaps that’s just wishful thinking. Either way, the mood lightens.
“I’ll admit that very little about this situation is funny, but I’ve been on the edge of laughter because this whole thing is absolute lunacy.” I clap my hand over my mouth. “Oops. I broke the rule. Moving on. Grey, did you learn anything at etiquette school today?”
He remains mute, as usual.
On thin ice, I leap, jumping over it, and continue my dazzling program. “What did I learn at etiquette school today? So glad you asked, Mr. Adams. In much the same way, there is a light spectrum and an electromagnetic spectrum, there exists in nature what I’m calling the ‘Triple G Spectrum.’ It starts on one side with The Grump. They’re someone who displays fits of moodiness, are gruff, and complain about how banks no longer give out lollipops.”
Grey rocks back on his heels like he knows I refer to him. But I detect a hidden smile, so I continue, wearing one of my own.
“Moving along the axis, there’s The Grouch whose tendencies toward ill humor are longer lasting. They binge on their own bad moods and might remain in this state for days on end.”
“I don’t like where this is going.”
I wink. “Then there is Grey. Grey Adams, to be precise. He encapsulates all of the above, plus his communication is limited to guttural grunts. He seems annoyed at the world for existing, and prefers his own company, which seems challenging, at least for those forced to spend thirty days with him.”
“You missed one, Buttercup.”
I dip my head in question. “Buttercup?”
The corner of his lip twitches like calling me Buttercup is a matter between him and, well, him.
Ignoring me, he says, “There’s also the ghost. I’m not grumpy or a grouch. Well, some of the time I am. No, I’m hardly here.” He sighs like it’s a foregone conclusion.
I’m not entirely sure he realizes he’s saying this out loud.
“That’s bleak and concerning. I’ve come across people like that.” In fact, my father is the original. He ghosts in and out of my life like a super grumpy ghoul.
Just then, a whistling sound followed by a clatter comes from somewhere beyond the main room of the suite.
On alert, I stiffen and glance at my phone, reminded of Todd’s call earlier and repeated texts.
Grey lazily glances over his shoulder like nothing spooks him.
“What was that?” I ask when he doesn’t budge.
“Something fell?”
“We’re the only two people here. Things don’t just fall on their own.”
“Do you think the manor is haunted?” If I’m not mistaken, he fights a smile.
