“Don’t be gross,” I say, my face scrunching up at the notion.
“On the contrary, I encourage you to be very gross.”
Getting the gist, I turn on my heels and head for the door, picking up my bag from the side table on my way out. “Text me if you need me.”
“Have fun,” she sings after me.
A few minutes later, I’m outside Phillip’s apartment and am lightly knocking on his door. He once again opens it with a welcoming smile, and I match it with a slightly less enthusiastic one of my own while holding up his Robin slippers.
“As promised,” I say.
“Excellent. My toes have been absolutely frigid without them, on top of me feeling generally far less heroic.”
“Well, you are now free to prowl the streets in search of crime or a pillow fight once again, because here they are. Thank you for lending them to me.”
“It was my pleasure,” he says, taking them from my offering hands. “And thank you for continuing to let me monopolize Ollie. His company is very much appreciated.”
“I’m more than glad to share my bundle of joy, and I’m sorry if he was forced on you today.”
“It was no trouble at all. I practically begged Roshni to let me walk him when I bumped into her in the hallway. I was looking for a reason to get some fresh air. Otherwise I would have stayed in all day doing sudoku.”
“If you say so,” I tell him, “but I’m sure you’re just being nice.”
“No, it was a completely selfish act, I assure you.”
I give him a grateful smile as Ollie trots over to the door, greeting me with excited jumps and his perpetually perfect face.
“Hello, handsome,” I coo, bending down to pet and scratch him. “How are you? Are you ready to go home?”
“If you’re done working for the night, would you like to come in? I was just about to make a curry, and we could always pour out the prosecco again?”
I consider it for a second as I stand back up. “That’s really generous of you, but I’m pretty tired, and I have a ton of work to do. Maybe another time.”
“Of course,” Phillip replies, lifting Ollie’s leash down from the coatrack and passing it to me. “Whenever you’re free, just let me know.”
“I will, and thanks again.”
“No problem. It was good to see you both, and if you change your mind about the slippers or the prosecco, I’m only a Bat Call away.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” I say lightly. “Have a good night.”
“You, too.”
He closes the door, and Ollie and I set off down the hallway, pausing at the elevator as we wait for it to arrive. I’m beyond tired, but I know I can’t sleep tonight. I seriously need to tighten upDeath of a Prom Kingbefore I send it in tomorrow. I’m looking forward to working on it while also dreading it when I feel a vibration in my bag. I fish out my phone and find a text from Liam.
Just wanted to say hello. Are you gearing up for your final writing session in the studio tonight?
I quickly type back,
I might be. Or I might be willing to work at your place if snacks are once again provided.
Blinking dots appear almost instantly.
I bought fresh supplies this afternoon—eco-friendly straws and a brand-new pint of ice cream. Shall I send you some pictures to prove it?
I smile as the elevator arrives and Ollie and I step inside.
I think you may have just invented an entirely new level of sexting. We’ll be there in an hour.
