"You don't know who I am?" I question, my stomach flipping.
She opens her mouth, then shuts it. She glances at the bag, then says, "Oh my gosh, I love that deli!"
The flipping turns to twisting.
Why does she love it? Did Red buy her a sandwich from his favorite sandwich shop?
She adds, "I went on a first—and only—date there. The guy was a big no, but the deli was a win!"
Relief hits me. I take several breaths.
She tilts her head. "I'm really sorry. It's my first day. Did you have an appointment?"
In a curt tone, I reply, "No, and I don't need one. You really don't know who I am?"
She bites on her lip for a moment, then winces. "I'm new to Chicago, and I don't know who's who in town. Are you a model? You're gorgeous enough to be!"
Another ounce of anxiety disappears. I shake my head. "No. I'm Red—Dr. Mercer's girlfriend."
She beams. "Oh my goodness! No wonder you looked at me like I'm crazy! I'm so sorry. Like I said, I'm new and still learning things! It's so nice to meet you!"
I stare at her, not sure if I should trust her.
Why didn't Red tell me he replaced Shirley?
Amy gestures to the chairs. "He's with a patient right now. Should be out in ten. Coffee while you wait? Water?"
She seems harmless.
Don't trust her until you know for sure.
She's looking for a man. It's going to be hard for her to resist trying to steal mine.
That's not fair.
I force a smile. "I'll take a water."
She grabs a bottle out of the mini fridge and hands it to me, gushing, "I love your dress!"
I glance down at my green maxi dress. "Thanks. I made it."
"You made it? Really?"
"Yes."
"Wow. How do you know how to make clothes?"
My pulse bangs between my ears. I debate whether to lie, then tell her, "My mom's Skylar Ivanov. She taught me."
Her mouth drops. "Wow! That's so cool." Her words needle me. She exudes neutral professionalism, but jealousy coils hot in my chest, sharpening my breath.
I sit and pull out my phone, not wanting to talk anymore.
She takes the hint and returns to her desk.
From the corner of my eye, I watch her type, trying to decide if I can trust her or not. Minutes stretch forever until the inner door opens and Red emerges.
He escorts a client out with a nod and a quiet word. Then his eyes land on me, surprise flashing before he masks it. "Blue. What brings you here?"
