“And where do you intend to stay in the meantime?” she asks, taking a bite of curry. “Want to stay with Elena and me? We have a guest room.”
I shake my head and grab my phone to text Dixon about the situation. “No, it’s alright. Thanks. I’ll get a different room for the time being and I’ll find a place as soon as possible.”
“If you’re moving out of your hotel room because of the expenses then why do you want to stay in another hotel instead of living with us for a while? It doesn’t make sense. You could justaccept my offer and not worry about much.” She cocks a brow, and I grimace. “Are you hiding something from me again?”
“You make it sound like I have mythomania,” I shoot back, huffing and massaging my temple. “Fine. I got into a really fucked up argument with Jason and ended things with him. I’m tired of his behavior, and us being family isn’t enough anymore for me to tolerate his attitude.”
“I see. Glad you decided to stand up for yourself. I’m proud of you,” she says softly then tilts her head. “But what’s that got to do with you wanting to move?”
“He keeps sneaking into my hotel room and every time we end up fighting.” I cringe when her jaw drops. “I’m sick of his shit, so I want to move and be done with him.”
“What the hell, Aoi?” She stands up and circles the table to sit next to me. “How did he break into your hotel room? I thought only you and the staff have a keycard. Why didn’t you say something sooner? We could’ve helped you.”
“I didn’t want to burden you with my problems,” I admit. “You have more important things to deal with than to waste your time helping me out. Besides, I didn’t care as much about it before, but now I just can’t stand it anymore. He’s always known how to get his way so I never really thought about how he did it.”
Amira pulls me into her arms, and I inhale the hibiscus and papaya fragrance emanating from her perfume. “I know you won’t talk to me, even if I tell you that I’m here in case you need me. But still, I’m here. Sally and Elena are as well. I know I keep reminding you of it, but we both know you need to hear it multiple times for your thick brain to accept it.”
I chuckle against her shoulder. “Goodness, Amira, you’re literally the closest thing to a mom for me.”
“I’m happy you see me that way. Means you’re comfortable around me,” she says, detaching herself from me. “I definitely think you should file a restraining order.”
The blue of her eyes is brighter than mine, contrasting with her perfect dark skin. I think Amira may be the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. Her high cheekbones, cupid’s bow and aquiline nose leave me breathless every time I look at her.
“I think he got the message.”
My phone buzzes on the table and I glance at the screen. Smiling, I grab the device and unlock it.
Andrew
I need to see you.
Me
Why? Is something wrong?
Andrew
I just miss you so much.
Andrew
I know we saw each other this morning, but I need to see you.
Andrew
I think I’ve developed an addiction to you, and now I’m dying.
Me
You’re impossible.
Andrew
You mean it’s impossible to go a few hours without you, yeah.
Me
Whereare you right now? I’ll come to you.
