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“Take two,” I said, getting out another pan and covering it with tinfoil to put in the oven.
“You know, my dad has an air fryer and it makes the best bacon. I’ll bring it over next time.”
She put her arms around me and kissed the back of my neck. I completely forgot what I was doing as Esme did her best to distract me from breakfast again.
Eventually, we got everything together and Esme made us breakfast mocktails.
“I could definitely get used to this,” I said, sipping my drink as we lounged on the couch and watched gay cartoons while our pets chased each other around the room.
“Me too,” she said. “I really, really like being with you, Paige. And I’m definitely thinking that it’s time I got my own place.”
That was surprising. She’d been with her dad so long and they were so close, I’d thought she was at least somewhat happy there. Not like me and my mom who were better off living apart.
“Yeah?” I said.
“Yeah. I want to have you over and not worry about him walking in to ask if we need anything.” She shuddered. “Let’s just say he’s caught me more times than I’d like to speak about.”
“Yikes,” I said. “Yeah, get your own place. I think there are units available in Linley’s building. I can get her to put in a good word for you,” I said. Esme waved me off.
“No worries, I know the owner. He comes into the bar all the time. In fact, he’s been telling me that anytime I want to move in, just say the word. He’s good people.” Huh. Guess she did have friends in high places.
“Well, if you need any help moving in, I have a car and I’m good at lifting pillows.” I flexed and she laughed.
“No, no, I’m definitely hiring movers. No need for you to do that, but I appreciate the offer so much.” She kissed me and her lips tasted of warm butter and syrup. Delicious.
At Esme’s suggestion, we took Stormy out for a walk, and I showed her all the cute little side roads and other cottages and cabins near mine. There was even a micro beach with rocky sand that wasn’t great for lounging, but had pieces of driftwood for sitting, and she let Stormy off the leash to run into the water and chase sticks that we threw.
“It really is beautiful here,” she said, staring up at the sky.
I couldn’t stop staring at her. The sun hit the red highlights in her hair, and her skin glowed. Stunning. Sometimes I couldn’t believe she was real.
Esme sighed and put her head on my shoulder. In that moment, all was right and good in the world.
I should have known it wasn’t going to last.
