Page 182 of Glitched Play

"Yes." She opens the portfolio and spreads glossy printouts across my desk. "One is in City Center, one's closer to the lake, and this one's about fifteen minutes from here."

I don't move. My whole-body freezes and my brain glitches. None of this computes.

"I know you've been busy, so I narrowed them down."

My pulse starts pounding. "I... don't understand."

Her smile falters.

"Oh no. Witt never told me to stop looking. He never brought it up… to you?"

I feel tears start to well but I’m not about to let Dara see that.

She continues quietly. "I almost asked him, but Witt is so precise. I assumed maybe he felt it was too soon for the two of you to live together when your relationship is still so new." She winces. "I'm sorry."

The room suddenly feels too small.

"I honestly thought I was helping."

I look toward the glass wall of Witt's office.

Empty.

He isn't there.

Of course he isn't.

"So..." Dara says gently. "What would you like to do?"

I swallow against the ache in my throat.

It hurts to breathe.

"Which one do you think I'd like?"

She studies me for a moment before sliding one page closer.

"This one."

Willow Heights.

Large windows.

Walking trails.

Two bedrooms.

Nothing like home or should I say the penthouse?

"It’s fine." My voice sounds far away. "I'll take whichever one you think is best."

Relief softens her features.

"I can call them."

I nod. "Ask if I can move in tonight.”

I don't remember leaving the office. Only that I looked into Witt's office—still empty.