In my rearview mirror I see Ian watching me and shaking his head.
I glance over at Barrel. He is also staring at me in censure.
“I’m sorry. He’s hot. I was checking him out. Sue me.”
Barrel makes a low whining growl in the back of his throat.
I sigh as I focus on the road and turning into the parking lot of the hardware store. “Fine. I will not flirt with Ian Lennox. Does that make you happy?”
Barrel barks in approval.
Chapter Four
Winnie
I’m standing in my empty and slightly chilly apartment.
It’s cute actually. Cozy. I’m pleased with it considering this is my first time stepping foot in it.
But there are no overhead lights except for a feeble recessed light in the galley kitchen that is covered in a dusty piece of glass and harboring at least two dozen fly corpses. It barely illuminates the kitchen, let alone the living room. The bedroom is a dark box with a teeny tiny window.
I can’t say I’m thrilled to be staying here tonight.
It also would help if I had my lamp that Lucy took.
But anything is better than still living with my parents, which was the reality of life in Nashville. Rent has skyrocketed in the last decade and I don’t make enough to both feed and shelter myself. Wanted is actually affordable on my regular person paycheck and I’m thrilled to finally have my own space.
There is still some daylight as I set down the bag of Barrel’s dog food and his bowls. Plus his blanket. I’ve brought nothingfor myself because I ran out of hands. I’ll go back for my suitcase right after I text my brother.
Don’t need you to come to Wanted.
Change your mind about moving? Good.
No! I just can’t unload my stuff until tomorrow.
I can’t come tomorrow.
I know. No worries.
You always worry me.
“Ah, that’s sweet,” I tell Barrel.
My phone dings again.
Because you’re nuts.
“Okay, not so sweet.” I roll my eyes and text Faith.
Made it to Wanted. Are you at the spring fling thingie?
I thought you were moving in next weekend.
No. I’m here with a truck.
We’re in Nashville this weekend.
“What?” I say out loud. “Are you serious?” I glance at Barrel. “I was going to ask Faith if we could stay with her and Mackay tonight.”
