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I bounce into the gym just past seven.
“Good morning.” I smile at the receptionist as I walk past.
“Hello,” she says as she winds the vacuum cord up. “Nice day, isn’t it?”
“Gorgeous!” I call as I get onto the treadmill and crank it up.
To be honest, I hadn’t even noticed the weather. Every day is a good day to me lately. Mr. Ferrara is an expert at putting a smile on my face. I’ve never felt so adored in all my life.
I walk briskly as I try to warm up.
“Good morning.” I look over to see the girl I met when I was in here last time.
“Oh, hi.” I smile.
She frowns at me. “I’m sorry. What was your name again? I’m terrible with names.”
I laugh. “I’m crap, too. I’m Olivia. What’s yours?”
“Jennifer.”
“Hi, Jennifer.” I smile. I like this girl. It’s nice having an Aussie around.
She climbs onto the walker beside me and starts it up. “Bring on the cardio.” She huffs as she turns it up. “I swear, I’ve put on five kilos since I moved here. I’m eating pasta with every meal, topped off with wine and cocktails. I’m going to be a fat cow.”
“Me, too,” I chuckle.
She walks briskly, her high ponytail bouncing behind her. “We went to this restaurant last night and it was incredible. Dominion. Have you been there?”
“No.” I frown. “Good?”
“They have this soft-shell chili crab. It’s to die for, and worth every fucking calorie.” She puts her hand over her heart and closes her eyes.
I laugh at her dramatics. “I’ll have to try it.”
“You seriously do.”
We walk in silence for a few minutes. “What are you doing today?” I puff.
“Looking for a job,” she says. “I had a week off and the plan was to wait until I found something that I really love, but I’m getting homesick.” She pants as she walks briskly. “I figure I need to keep busy.”
“Yeah, I get that. The time difference does my head in. Every time I want to chat, my parents are in bed.”
“Right?” she huffs.
“So, your boyfriend’s family are here in Milan?” I ask.
She shakes her head. “No, he’s from Naples. He moved here for a new job. Started three days after I arrived so he doesn’t know anyone, either. We’re like complete losers with no friends.”
“We’ll have to have to go out for dinner sometime—the four of us. Oh, and my best friend is here from Australia, too. I’ll introduce you to her. She’s lovely. Mad as all hell, but so much fun. I tried to get her to come this morning but she’s starting a new job today.”
“Where did she look for her job? Is there a website or something? I have no idea where to even start.”
“I’ll ask her and text you. Remind me to get your number before I leave.” I’m so unfit, I can hardly talk while I walk.
“That would be great. I think when I find a good base of friends, I’ll be fine. What’s your boyfriend like?”
Oh jeez, what do I say to that. “Quiet and bossy.” I smile. “He likes to get his own way.”
