“If you’re married then it’s not a requirement, but I can also use his income statements to get you a higher mortgage on the place. It will probably be a must if you want to guarantee the mortgage rate.”
I tuck hair behind my ear. “That makes sense, but it’s for business and I am trying not to mix business with pleasure.”
Really, Hailey? Did that just fly out of my mouth?
She tries not to bubble a laugh, but luckily, she doesn’t seem to mind my slip.
“What does your husband do?”
“You know, we are kind of private people. Keep things on the down low.” As in live in different homes and fuck like crazy when the opportunity arises. “But he’s a lawyer.”
“Let me guess, he will review every document you sign.”
I smile to myself at the thought. He will whether I like it or not. I’m sure he would have done it before all of this transpired, too. It’s a sort of protectiveness, a steel wall unable to break through. He has his mind set.
“Maybe. Next time we sign and dust the documents then he will join me. He’s busy now, as hockey players enjoy their contracts this time of year.”
Her face puzzles, and I realize I shared a tidbit of information about my secret husband. It’s because I’m proud of him. Always have been. His career is one that many who study law dream of.
“He works for the Spinners,” I clarify. Everyone around here knows about hockey.
Her whole face lights up. “Really? I bet you get some great seats and tickets.”
My brow arches, and I contemplate testing the waters. “Is… that something that interests you?” My words stretch.
“My son always asks for season tickets.”
I whirl my finger around. “Would that put me favorably in line for my application?” I smile quickly to pretend I’m joking.
In truth, I have no shame in bribery right now.
She chuckles. “Probably, but you don’t need to sway me. It would be no good. Everything is down to what I put in the computer. I’m not sure I would worry so much, you have you have everything well prepared.”
That’s a relief, and I smile confidently. “Okay. Then I guess I’m done here. I’ll call when we can move on to the next step.” I stand from my chair and slide the strap of my purse over my shoulder.
“Yep. Nice talking with you, Hailey, and we’ll see one another soon.”
“Thanks again.” We shake hands, and I nearly skip out of the bank.
I’m one step closer to my dream.
My dry-cleaning hangsfrom my finger as I walk out the door onto Main Street. Errands are the theme of the day, and my smile hasn’t wilted one bit since the bank. The sun is out too.If I’m feeling adventurous then I might even grab a tub of ice cream from the store to have later while I work on grading papers.
“Hailey.” I hear a familiar voice call my name to grab my attention.
That smile I have? It now wilts.
My lips roll in, and I slowly pivot on my heel while pasting on a new tight smile. “Nancy.” Oliver’s mother, my husband’s mother, my mother-in-law, except she doesn’t know that.
“It’s good to see you. I haven’t seen you since before the wedding.”
I blink a few times as a small blip flies in my stomach. “Wedding?”
“Your brother’s.” Right. Of course that’s what she means. “I really wish we didn’t miss it. I’m sure Oliver knocked it out of the park with his speech. He sent a video that someone made, and I can’t wait to see the newlywed couple when they’re back. Such a special time.”
Newlyweds are a special sort of species. I’m beginning to feel that.
Nancy gives me a once-over and seems to approve. “You look different. Your hair?”
