“Not when it comes to movies.” She bites her bottom lip. “Can I pick?”
“Sure.” As I’m handing her the remote, my phone buzzes on the table, and Ines’ name is displayed on the screen.
I pick it up, realizing I haven’t checked in with her today. “Hey,” I say as I stand and head out of the room. “Is everything okay?”
“Yeah, everything’s fine. Santi’s been asking about you, so I promised him I’d call and see if you’re still planning to stop by tomorrow.”
“Of course. I miss the little man.” I step into the kitchen and fill a glass with water. “How is he?”
“He’s obsessed with drawing this week. He even drew the LEGO set you gave him. It’s so cute.” Her voice is soft, tired.
“I picked up a book. I’m looking forward to reading it with him tomorrow.” I smile to myself. “And if you need a break, even if it’s just to take a walk, I’d be more than happy to look after him.”
“Thank you, Hade. I really appreciate it.”
When I return to the living room, Riley stares at me, something like confusion in her eyes.
I haven’t mentioned to my family that I’m helping Ines, and I’d prefer to keep it that way, so I don’t explain.
“What are we watching?” I ask as I sit on the couch.
“Arcane.”
“What’s it about?”
She shrugs. “You’ll have to wait and see. After the first episode, if it’s not your cup of tea, we can watch whatever you want. EvenFast & Furious.”
“Okay.” I settle into the cushions and prop my feet up on the coffee table. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”
13
a questionable roommate
RILEY
The scentof vanilla and the sound of the sizzling pan do a surprisingly good job of grounding me. While I whisk the batter, I think back on the fire, my mind calmer. Then, I pack all the confusion being around Hayden brings me into a box and shove it into the recesses of my brain.
Hade stepped up yesterday, and damn if that didn’t make my chest swell with gratitude despite my anger. Even after the vibrator disaster, the atmosphere between us wasn’t uncomfortable or awkward.
This morning, I couldn’t resist the temptation to make pancakes. Not to try to impress him or anything, but simply because I like cooking. Plus, I’m grateful to him for offering me a place to stay.
My phone lights up with a text, and I take it from the counter.
Nastya:
How was your first night at his place?
Me:
You couldn’t wait to ask until you see me later?
Nastya:
???
I laugh quietly. She’s impossible. At least this is a Russian word I know. She taught me “yes” and “no” early on in our friendship, along with “thank you” and “fuck you.” A really good combination, if you ask me.
Me:
