For the most part, Nash has tried to keep me away from the family. In his words, ‘They’re not that great.’
I can’t believe I haven’t been able to find a job yet, though. I need to find something quickly. Being a hired fake fiancée has a time limit. And while Nash has been overly generous, it’s not like I can continue to rely on that.
And I have to stop stress baking. Our house has turned into a cinnamon roll factory. Thank goodness I’ve been able to share the goodies with the guys that hang out in front of the building. They’ve all gushed over how good my treats are. It’s the kind of affirmation I need at the moment.
Nash didn’t say anything about his plans for today, so I assume he’s not coming by to pick me up. Usually, he’s clear about his plans.
So, I sent out my resume to more businesses, then I started running on the treadmill we found at a yard sale. It’s beat up but it still works. And unfortunately, I feel safer running in our apartment than down the road. The treadmill is crammed in our small hallway, and it’s been the culprit of a lot of stubbed toes, but since all three of us use it, we can’t complain too much.
“Someone’s here for you!” Piper yells.
I turn off the treadmill and hurry into the living room. Nash is standing there, looking mildly amused. Piper isn’t wearing pants still, and her makeup is smeared everywhere, per usual. I catch Nash’s attention over her head.
His eyes widen, and he pushes past Piper.
“Are you okay?” He places the back of his hand on my forehead. “Your face is bright red, and you’re flushed and clammy. You should be in bed.”
I smack his hand away and scowl. “I’ve been running—that’s all. It’s not the flu!”
“That’s all?” He looks stunned momentarily, though he quickly schools his features. “You look great. So healthy.”
I poke his arm. “Liar.”
He holds his hands out in anI surrendermotion. “I’m going to shut my mouth and never speak again.”
“Probably a good idea,” Piper interjects.
My cheeks would be bright red from embarrassment if they weren’t from exercise.
I walk to the kitchen and turn the faucet on.
I almost stick my head under it, but I scrape up a smidgen of dignity that won’t allow me to.
Genetics are not kind to me during exercise. It’s truly unfortunate, because running is when I do my best thinking.
I can solve any problem while running. I actually feel a million times better right now.
Which is why it’s too bad that my face doesn’t match my mood.
I very carefully lift a glass from the cupboard and then fill it from the faucet, as a charming woman would.
“Can I get you anything?” I ask Nash, but he’s busy staring at the sweat soaking through my shirt. There’s a lot of it to look at.
“I’m good. I just stopped by to see if you could come to dinner tonight. Grandpa wants to see you.”
“You could have just texted!” Piper calls from the back of the apartment. She’s a big help.
“I have to admit, I wanted to see you too.”
“How about now, after seeing her running face?” Piper yells again with a cackle.
“Have you ever considered finding a soundproof apartment?” Nash asks.
“Hey, I heard that!” Piper shoots back.
I hear the water turn on, and I know she’s about to use all the hot water. My post-run shower will be ice cold.
“I meant for you to hear that!” Nash says a little louder.
