“I do, but...” Sloan was just as taken aback by the idea as Matty. “We barely know each other.”
“I saidspareroom, notyourroom, Sloan.” Gloria chuckled. “Don’t wear the carpet out walking back and forth, though, eh?”
“It’s a really lovely offer, Gloria, but honestly, I think Sloan’s right—it’s too soon. We’re still getting to know each other.”
Gloria shrugged. “Suit yourselves, but if either of you could make me some dinner, I’d be grateful. And a cup of tea wouldn’t get turned down either.”
They both stared as Gloria shuffled away, quite aware she’d tossed a small grenade into the conversation and left them to work it out.
When she was out of sight, they looked at each other, wry smiles on both their faces.
“We’re not doing that, right?”
Matty laughed. “I am not a U-hauler. No, I’ll work it out. Might just take me a few weeks longer before I can put a deposit together.”
Sloan ventured closer. “And…you’re going to keep working here? Accept my terms and conditions?”
“Hm. I didn’t say that.” Matty smiled and stepped closer. “I think there is room for negotiation.”
“Oh…what is your counter-offer?”
“I guess…a couple of sleepovers a week? Maybe…dinner at a nice restaurant, cocktails…”
Sloan swept Matty’s hair back from her face. “I think that sounds acceptable.”
“And I get to choose which toys you play with.”
“Always?” Sloan asked.
Matty’s mouth twisted as she considered it. “Eight out of ten.”
“Deal.” Sloan smiled.
“Good… Now, you’d better get dinner going while I head home,” Matty said. She leaned in and kissed Sloan. “You don’t want to keep her waiting.”
“Fine.” Sloan grinned. “I can wait for you, though.”
“Mm. I know. And it’s so delicious when you do.” Matty winked. “I’ll return these in the morning,” she said, gesturing to the clothes.
Sloan followed her into the hall and watched as she laced up the skates she’d pulled from her bag.
“Are you ever going to stop wearing those?”
“Probably not.” Matty grinned up at her. “Was thinking about getting you a pair.”
“Not in a million years,” Sloan said, and walked away. “I’ll see you in the morning.”
Matty laughed, wheeled to the door, and opened it. “Night,” she called, tugging the door closed behind her.
“Is that tea coming?” Gloria shouted as Sloan passed the lounge doorway. “Could die of thirst.”
Sloan stopped and leaned back to look in on her mother. “Don’t think I don’t know you could make it yourself if you wanted to,” she said, arching a brow at her mother.
“It’s so exhausting, though.” Gloria smiled innocently, adding, “Pretty please?”
“Seeing as you’re being so nice, how can I say no?” Sloan straightened up. “Risotto tonight?”
“Is it going to take forever?”
