“Do that.” Another sigh. “It feels like everything is going wrong.”
“I thought it was the ‘trifecta of the heavens?’”
Silence.
“I’m not mocking you,” Lucia said.
“Could have fooled me.”
“I’m sorry. Just got a lot on my mind.”
“Yes, and apparently that excludes me and your job.”
“I’ll try to do better.”
“Don’t try. Do.” Francesca hung up.
~ ~ ~
The next morning, Lucia woke to a text from Penelope.
Hey stranger. I hope the week has been kind to you.
She sat up, her bare feet cold on the hardwood floor, and stared at the message for a full minute.
Honesty still tugged at her, so she typed,
It’s been a bit rough, but nothing I can’t handle.
Penelope replied right away.
I’m sorry to hear that, but at least you’re confident.
I doubt that’s something you’re lacking.Lucia shot back, a small smile forming on her lips.
It depends on the circumstance.
True. How come you got time for texting on a Wednesday morning? I expected you’d be slaving over some reports or knee-deep in prep for the ball.
I’m waiting on compliance updates. Boring but necessary.
So you’re just passing time.Lucia worried her lower lip.
Or something like that.
A thought had been forming in Lucia’s mind all week—a dangerous one that refused to leave. She knew she shouldn’t, but temptation and she weren’t friends. Although perhaps temptation loved her because it always won when battling Lucia.
Do you have any plans for the weekend?
Why? Another coffee date?
No. I… I wanted to ask if you’d like to visit my art studio?
Silence.
I shouldn’t have done that.“Too forward. Damn it, Luce.”
She jumped up, left her phone on the bed, and headed to the bathroom, cursing her impulsivity under her breath.
