“Will do, love ya!” And then she’s gone.
With a heavy exhale, I set my phone back down on the table before going back to laptop. Looking at the time, I’ve got about forty minutes to get as much work done as I can before Hayden is due to arrive.
This’ll be my first time meeting Hayden, or at least the first time I’ll be able to remember. Apparently, we’ve met as kids but who remembers their childhood that well.
2
Hayden
The sound of my baby nephew wailing pierces my eardrums, reminding me yet again that I need to look for a new place to live. I love Jay to bits, and he played a big part in why I moved in. I wanted to be around to help out my sister, also the fact that I didn’t have anywhere to stay, of course, contributed.
Emma and Adam hadn’t seemed to mind, there was no doubt that they had the room but I think they were happy to have someone to watch Jay while they took time out for themselves too.
But, this situation isn’t working anymore. I started my new job at the vet clinic nearly two weeks ago and I’m positive that I haven’t had a full night’s sleep since. Which is why today when I arrive at work I’m late. I called in to say I wasn’t coming in until later than usual and of course, they were fine with it but that’s not the point. I need sleep and time to relax. After all, it’s not my fucking kid.
When lunchtime comes around I settle myself into a chair out in the small courtyard behind the clinic with my coffee, my sandwich, and the classifieds.
I’ve been actively searching for a new place, somewhere local so that I can still pop around to Emma’s anytime she needs me, but also far enough away that I won’t be able to hear Jay’s cries.
I’ve inspected four properties so far but there was something wrong with each and every one. And that’s not just me being picky, one couple had three kids all under the age of five. Yeah, so not fucking happening.
I’m surprised when Gabby’s name lights up my phone screen. Yes! Just what I need right now, a night with my friends. A drink or five couldn’t hurt either. It’s probably only been a week since I’ve seen them all but it feels like so much longer.
“Hey Gabby, how’s it going?” I’m immediately cheered up and I know that the rest of the day won’t be so bad.
“Great actually. I had an idea. Last time we all got together you were complaining about living with your sister, right?”
“Ugh, Gabs don’t make me sound like such a jerk. I appreciate everything she and Adam have done for me, letting me live there and all. I just happened to mention looking for somewhere more suited for me, more appropriate that’s all.”
“I know, I know. But, I may have a solution for you.” She pauses.
I wait silently for her to continue. When she doesn’t I jump in with, “and what would that be?”
“I’ve recently vacated Tash’s apartment, which means she has a spare room. As far as I know, she hasn’t rented it out yet.”
“Tash?” Hmm. I’ve only met her a handful of times, she seemed nice.
Of course, I’ve already violated her in my mind six ways to Sunday. She‘s not my usual type, she’s cute and petite - like a fairy. I’d never make a move because I know how much she means to Gabby. And Gabby would kill me if I did my usual play with her.
Could I really live with someone I’m attracted to? Pfft, hell yeah.
“I’m going to invite her out for drinks with us on Thursday night. Maybe try and talk to her then, get to know her a little bit.”
I sigh but reluctantly agree. It’s the least I could do. “Fine.”
“Honestly, you’d be lucky to score such a sweet roommate.” She doesn’t have to hammer it home; the fact is I’m desperate and as long as she’s sane I’m interested. Apart from cannibalism there’s not much I wouldn’t put up with. I keep myself to myself, and what they get up to isn’t any of my business.
I need to talk to my sister and her husband so I decide I’ll do it over dinner. I’m not the best chef in the world, I know that for sure but I think I do okay. I make a very plain spaghetti bolognese and set out the plates.
“I’ve got something I wanted to talk to you guys about,” I edge.
“Have you been dating someone? Because I was talking to Mom the other day, and she asked me the same thing. And I had a feeling. I mean I know, absolutely, you’re only young and of course, you don’t need to worry about settling down or anything just yet.”
“But, well, if you did then that’d be great, it would really take all the heat off us.” Adam rushes exhaustedly. Wow. I always knew my sister was crazy but it’s seems that her crazy has started to rub off on Adam.
“Hey, whoa. That’s not what this is. I thought I should let you guys know that I’m looking for a new place to live.”
“Oh.”
