Page 7 of The October Arrangement

“Where are you staying? New York is very expensive.”

“A friend of mine from college is letting me stay at her cousin’s penthouse while he’s away for three months. By the time he gets back, I’ll already be gone.”

“Wow. A penthouse?” She smiled. “You be careful in that city. Bad things happen there.”

“Bad things happen everywhere, Mom.”

“Are you sure this is what you want to do? You’ve always been very quick to jump at something without thinking it through.”

“I don’t have a choice. My money is running out, and I need a paycheck.”

“Then don’t you think you should try to find a permanent job?” she asked.

“In this economy? I’m lucky Ever & Oak called me. I sent out over fifty resumes the last two weeks, and they were the only company that called.”

She pulled me into an embrace. “Have a safe flight and call me when you get there. Maybe you should go buy a taser.”

“I’m not buying a taser, Mom.”

“Pepper spray?”

“Already have some.” I smiled.

Chapter Four

Bella

I stood outside JFK with my suitcase and stared at all the cabs lined up, ready to take travelers to their destinations.

“Need a cab, lady?” A man waved me over.

“Yes, I do.” I smiled.

He took my suitcase and carry-on and put them in the trunk while I climbed into the back seat.

“Where to?” he asked.

“101 West 67th Street, please.”

The cab pulled up to the curb as I stared at the enormous building with fifty-six floors. After I paid the driver, he took my luggage from the trunk and set it on the sidewalk.

“Thank you.” I smiled.

A man wearing a uniform ran out and quickly grabbed my suitcase and carry-on.

“Good afternoon.” He smiled.

“Ah, you’re here!” I heard a familiar, perky voice from behind. Turning around, I saw Daisy.

“Daisy.” We hugged.

“Burt, this is Bella Castle, and she’ll be staying in Simon’s penthouse while he’s away.”

Instantly, his brows furrowed. “Does he⁠—”

“Of course, he does.” She grinned. “He’s totally fine with it. Come on. I’ll take you up.” She grabbed my suitcase, and I grabbed my carry-on.

“Is that the cat?” I pointed to the carrier in her other hand.