14
SAGE
“You don’t haveto drive out here tonight, we can get together another day when I haven’t had to work,” I say to Fiona as I walk back to the hotel from the hospital, fighting back a yawn. It wasn’t a super busy shift, but twelve hours on my feet is still a lot.
“Unless you tell me you’re so tired you just want to go to sleep, I still want to come. I don’t care if we order takeout to your hotel room or go to that diner where you and Brady had breakfast. I just want to see you and the nugget.”
I smile to myself. The nugget, also known as the baby growing inside of me, has finally popped my belly out enough to be noticeable. Not a lot, I mean, I’m only seventeen weeks along, but my previously flat-ish stomach definitely has a soft rounding to it. My jeans are getting snug, and I already had to buy bigger bras.
“Fine, come on out.”
“Joke’s on you, bitch, I’m already on my way.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “Why am I not surprised?See you soon.” Pocketing my phone, I walk through the sliding door of the inn, only to be flagged down by the person working at the front desk.
“Ms. McCallister, sorry to interrupt your evening, but do you have a moment?”
“Sure,” I say, changing direction and going to the desk.
The woman, whose name tag reads Ethel, gives me a smile. “I noticed you’re on a week by week booking with us and wanted to confirm you wish to extend your stay before we process the transaction tomorrow.”
“Oh. Yes, thanks, I’ll be staying another week.” I try not to grimace. The truth is that my bank account is suffering with the cost of staying here. But the rental market is truly abysmal, especially for short-term, furnished suites. As disappointing as it is, this hotel is the most reasonably-priced option.
“Wonderful, you’ll receive your receipt via email tomorrow. Have a lovely evening, Ms. McCallister.”
I dip my chin and say, “Thanks,” before making my way to the elevator. Once inside, I lean back against the wall, my head hitting it with a light thump. “Fuck.”
I drag my feet down the short hall to my room and unlock the door. I only have five and a half more months on my contract at the hospital, before I go on maternity leave. Then there will be childcare to consider, plus supporting myself and a baby.
The mental math makes my head hurt. I have no idea how I’m going to afford everything.
And this feels like something I can’t leave up to chance.
Grabbing a pillow, I cover my face with it and scream.
I have to come up with a plan.Ugh.
When Fiona knocks on my door a short while later, I’m showered and changed, but no less frustrated. Which is why, as soon as she walks in, I collapse into her arms.
“Why are therenodecent short-term rentals in this freaking place? Your couch is looking more and more appealing as the days go on,” I grumble half-heartedly.
Laughing, Fiona pats my back. “I’d be generous and give you my room.”
We pull apart and sit down on the edge of the bed.
“That’s very generous, and very tempting. I’ve never had so much trouble finding somewhere to live,” I say, raking my damp hair back into a messy braid. “It’s never mattered whether I’m in a big city or a small town; there have always been options. I can’t believe that now, when I need somewhere to live more than ever, there’s nothing.”
Fiona rubs my leg sympathetically. “And I’m guessing hotel beds are not designed for pregnant ladies’ sleep requirements.”
I wrinkle my nose. “It’s so lumpy, Fi. I have no idea how I’ll get comfortable in a few more months.”
Hopping up to stand, Fiona turns and holds out her hands. “C’mon. We’ll hit the diner for some burgers and shakes, and then, I dunno, go watch a movie or something. I know you’re tired, but you need to get out of this room. ”
“You’re not wrong there,” I say, standing and moving to the door where I left my shoes. “Not that I want muchin terms of a social life, but spending my evenings here is a real downer.”
As we walk out the door of my room, Fiona asks casually, “Have you seen Brady?”
“Yeah, we’ve talked on the phone, and we’ve gone out for breakfast a few times. And,” I pause, chewing my lip. “He drove me home from work last night.”
