Page 13 of Tell Me Something

He unlocked the door for me, apparently choosing to avoid the question.

Turning on the light, I went in and glanced around. It looked a lot like one of those extended-stay hotel rooms, with a small kitchen off to my right and a queen-sized bed over to my left. I opened the door next to the bed to find a good-sized closet and then walked to the door on the far side of the space. This revealed a bathroom which boasted a pretty glass shower. The flat-screen TV on the wall was a nice touch as I’d be able to watch television in bed.

“It’s not really made for entertaining, but the view isn’t bad.”

After making my way over to the window, I sucked in my breath at the lights of the city spread out before me. “It’s amazing. I’ve never before had a place that I didn’t have to share. Any company will just have to watch the TV from the bed.”

I hadn’t realized how it sounded until it was out of my mouth.

His eyes darkened as he turned toward me.

Swallowing hard, I pictured him in my bed, but something told me we wouldn’t be watching much television.

“We’ll need to discuss any company before you bring people here. Matter of fact, I’d appreciate it if you tell anyone who asks where you’re living that you’re staying with friends.”

That seemed a little strange, but I didn’t have a chance to think about it because Rafael knocked on the door and then brought in my suitcases.

“I’ll leave you to get settled and see you in the morning,” Josh said, turning to go.

I was anxious to get unpacked, but in looking over at Rafael, I was even more worried about offending my new doorman.

“Wait, quick question.” I dragged Josh over to the side, out of earshot of the other man. “I’m not really sure. Do I, um, tip Rafael?”

The question seemed to completely throw him.

Noticing my hand was still on his arm, I suddenly dropped it, incredulous that I’d touched him with such familiarity.

But instead of looking annoyed, he reached his hand up and tucked my hair behind my ear.

I could only stare and hope that after his touch I’d still be able to comprehend his answer.

“No. At a hotel it would be appropriate but not the doorman of your residence. Holidays are a time to do that.”

He spoke to me in a voice that didn’t make me feel stupid. “Thanks. I guess I’ll see you tomorrow morning, then.” I was sorry to see him go, but he suddenly seemed in a hurry as he stepped back and toward the door.

“Yes, tomorrow morning. Good night, Haylee.”

With that, he and Rafael were both on their way out.

I grabbed my key from the counter and did a twirl around the room. My new life was looking pretty damn sweet thus far.

I SPENT the next couple of hours unpacking and getting my work clothes steamed out, ready for the week. The sound of my stomach growling reminded me that I hadn’t eaten. Since I didn’t have any food, I would need to go out. Already dressed casually in yoga pants and a tank top, I threw on a sweatshirt and tennis shoes. It was much cooler here at night than in LA, being that it was fall in the Big Apple.

Once I made my way downstairs, I asked Rafael where to find good local places for food. I settled on Thai a couple blocks away and also found a small convenience store along the way. With bags in hand, I headed back into the lobby.

“Ah, Ms. Haylee. Here, Mr. Singer wanted me to give you these menus for places that deliver. In New York City, you name it, and you can have anything delivered. They will bring it to the front desk, and then I can call you or send it straight up.”

I smiled, thankful, and then realized how strange his instruction had sounded. “Rafael, when did Mr. Singer tell you to give these to me?”

“Uh, about an hour ago. He wanted to ensure I kept an eye out for you and requested that I inform him if you stepped out of the building. It’s a good city, miss, but if you don’t know it— Well, it can be dangerous. Mr. Singer is simply a cautious man. I hope you’re not upset.”

“No. Not at all, but can I ask you something?”

“Of course. Anything.”

“Does Mr. Singer live in this building, too?”

His expression was one of confusion and then he laughed. “You didn’t know? You’re in his guest apartment. He occupies the entire twenty-fourth floor, the penthouse, miss.”