Page 20 of Miss Trust

It was more than reasonable. “Your rate is cheaper than what I was expecting.”

She shrugged. “It’s a friends-and-family discount. Now then, I know you have a lot to do to get settled. Do you want me to sit with her this weekend?”

“No, thank you. I have it covered.”

“I’ll start Monday, then?”

“Yes, Monday would be terrific. Um, I’m not sure what our schedule will be like. We may have some extended hospital stays ahead.”

“That’s the benefit of being retired. I’m completely flexible, my dear.”

“Thanks.” It was quite a relief to find out she wasn’t relying on the income.

The next day I spent cleaning my old apartment from floor to ceiling. Although I kept the place as tidy as possible, a deep move-out clean took hours. I then went by Daisy’s apartment two floors down where she was babysitting Penelope.

She greeted me at the door with a smile. “She fell asleep ten minutes ago. Meanwhile, you look like you could use a glass of wine.”

“You’re a life saver,” I murmured, taking a seat on her plush sofa. Although Daisy didn’t talk about it, I suspected she’d once had money. Her furniture and clothing were of a higher quality than what one would have expected. I wasn’t sure what had caused her to move into this shitty apartment building, but over the entire last year I’d been thankful to have her in my life.

She poured two glasses of red and came to sit on the other side of the couch. “Here’s to new beginnings.”

She clinked her glass to mine. “Yeah, new beginnings.”

“I really liked Mona. So did Penny.”

“She’s wonderful.”

“But?”

“But I despise being indebted to anyone.”

“Mona doesn’t seem the type who is going to hold it over you.”

“Of course not. I meant Chance Maxwell. The house, the nanny, the job, the medical coverage.” It left me on edge, waiting for him to pull the rug out.

She grinned. “Ah. Well, if it helps, I wouldn’t mind being in his debt. You said he was decent looking. I’d say you understated by a mile.”

Yeah, so, I hadn’t wanted to admit how sexy my new boss actually was. “His personality leaves a lot to be desired.”

She chuckled. “Fair enough. How do you think it’ll be sharing a house with him?”

I took a big sip of the rich red wine, enjoying the taste on my tongue. I didn’t often drink alcohol because of the price, so tonight was a rare treat. “He has more than one house, so I suspect I won’t see much of him.” At least one could hope.

“I sure will miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too. Are you planning to stay in the building?”

“Nope. I already gave notice. I’ll be moving to Studio City next month.”

“Nicer apartment, I hope?” At least Studio City was a better area.

“It is. You were my last tie to this place. But don’t think you’re rid of me so easily. You’re the first friend I made when I moved to LA.”

“You’re my best friend, I hope you know.” Yes, I was close with Teagan, but it was different to have a girl friend who wasn’t related.

She wiped at her face. “Dammit, now I’m crying. When we should be happy we’re both moving out of this building and on to better things.”

“You’re right. We won’t cry.” Yet change was scary, and I was in unknown waters. On the other hand, it would all be worth it if it meant Penny had the best care.