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“That may be impossible,” I said, feeling defeated. “And just in case, you might want to watch your mouth. Cursing doesn’t bother me, but it’s rude to do in front of a lady,” I warned as we pulled up to the apartment building.
Light dawned in his eyes when the car came to a stop. “My mama raised a gentleman,” he informed me before climbing out and offering me a hand.
“Thank you, sir,” I said on the sidewalk beside him. If I couldn’t fix my own relationship, I hoped I could at least prod along one that needed a little shove. When I’d arranged this breakfast, I’d kept both of them in the dark. The element of surprise could be more fun, or it could royally suck.
Arms linked, we walked toward the building. Paul stepped in front of the door, shifting from one foot to the other nervously. “I’m sorry, Miss Vivian, but I’m not allowed to let you inside.”
“I’m here to see Muriella, not Mr. Elliott.”
He looked apologetic, like he hated having to do this. He should. The three of us had always treated him like a person, not a servant. “I have strict orders.”
“We both know he’s not here. What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him, and you can’t keep me from Muriella,” I said firmly but not unkindly. Muriella had texted to tell me he was gone for real this time.
Paul looked uncertain, and I cursed Daniel for dragging yet another person into our drama. “I could be fired, Miss Vivian.”
“I won’t let that happen,” I promised.
He considered for a moment and then opened the door. “Go on in, but please keep it low-key.”
I patted his arm as we walked inside. “Thank you, Paul.”
“You know I’ve got a soft spot for you, Miss Vivian.”
I smiled at him, and Stone shook Paul’s hand before we made our way to the elevators. Every time I stepped into this building, it was odd being back in a place where I’d lived for so many years. In a way, I felt like a stranger, but mostly, it only intensified my longing for home.
“M,” I called as I opened the front door.
“In the kitchen,” she yelled back.
Stone followed me from the foyer to the kitchen, which was the showpiece of this apartment.
I hugged her from behind. “Something smells good. I’m starving.”
She grinned without taking her eyes off the bacon she was frying. “That’s a big surprise.”
I swatted her playfully, and she laughed as I moved to the Sub-Zero refrigerator. “What would you like to drink, Stone?” The tongs Muriella held clattered on the counter before she whipped around in surprise.
“Hello, Muriella. I swear you get more beautiful every time I see you,” he greeted.
Her cheeks turned a deep pink. Stone never tried to hide his interest in her, but he kept it subtle for the most part.
She appeared frozen in place, and I stifled a smile. “Aren’t you going to say hello to your guest?” She shot me a dirty look as the fridge door shut behind me.
“This is a surprise.” Another look in my direction. “It’s been a long time, Stone.” She sounded miffed. “Seems like you’ve been busy.”
I wanted to shout with glee that she was finally showing some sort of emotion toward him.
“Wasn’t sure anybody cared if I came to the city or not. I ran into Vivian last night, and she reminded me someone does.” He elbowed me in the ribs.
“Did you forget how to pick up a phone?”
Whoa. Muriella’s claws were out. She wasn’t one to put up with any bullshit, but this was a rare side of her.
He looked pleased as punch by her obvious irritation that he was only here because I’d run into him. “I would have last night, actually, but Vivian kept me out late. You’re stuck with me for a while, though. I’m here for the next couple of months on a shoot.” She looked like she wanted to pass out, and Stone’s grin widened. “Well, damn. You don’t have to look so excited, Muriella.”
“I need to check on the omelet.” One of her commercial ovens became the most interesting thing she’d ever seen as she poked about inside of it for longer than necessary before taking out the skillet.
I gave him a crooked grin and held out my hand for a discreet low five. “Want some milk?” I asked, getting back to serving up beverages.
