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I wince involuntarily. “Neither.”
Mark must notice my expression, because he says, “Sorry, I’m being nosy. It’s a bad habit of mine. Guess it comes with the territory.” He gestures at the bar surrounding us while he gets my sandwich out of the grill.
“No, don’t worry.” I take a sip of OJ. “It’s just that I came to New York for a medical procedure. Something personal.”
Mark frowns. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to intrude.” The frown deepens. “Are you okay?”
Gosh, I’m such a moron. I mentally swat myself on the forehead. Now he’s going to think I have cancer or something.
“Yes,” I say, taking a bite out of the sandwich. “Totally okay.” I swallow. “It was avoluntaryprocedure.”
Mark studies my face, probably trying to decide if I had plastic surgery, but obviously bites his tongue and doesn’t ask.
I blush and blurt out, “I had my eggs frozen, all right?”
Mark’s eyes widen. “Oh, what clinic?”
Huh? Not the response I expected. “Why do you want to know? Are you an expert on fertility clinics?”
Mark smirks. “Sort of. My sister is a nurse at Clinlada.”
“That’s my clinic! I chose it because it was the most recommended on my insurance plan.”
“And I can certify it’s one of the best clinics in the country.”
“What’s your sister’s name?”
“Gwen, Gwen Cooper. Did you meet her?”
The name doesn’t ring a bell. “No, sorry, she wasn’t my nurse.” I twirl a lock of hair around my finger. “You think it’s pathetic?” I ask. “Freezing my eggs?”
“No, it’s smart. If you want a family but are…” He falters in his speech, most likely struggling to find a nicer way to saya spinster.“Not at a moment in your life when that’s… err… possible. Cryopreservation is a wise move to protect your fertility and chances of having a baby when you’re ready.” He flashes me a goofy smile. “You can tell I’m a victim of my sister’s propaganda, eh?”
Despite myself, I smile. I’ve told this guy, this total stranger, my innermost secret, and he’s managed to put me at ease. Not just with him, but with my life’s choices as well.
“You’re right,” I say. “And I’m not at a time in my life where a relationship is something I want to pursue.”
“Busy with your career?”
“Yes, but it’s not that.” I chew off another bite before telling him the next part. “I’ve sort of sworn off men. I’m not ready to meet someone.”
“Oh, honey, but that’s the worst thing you can say if you don’t want a man.”
“Why?”
“Because the moment you stop looking, that’s when Prince Charming will come knocking on your door.”
2
ARCHIE
Three Weeks Later
Something is wrong.
Sunlight filters in through the blinds, piercing my closed lids. Plenty of light, more than there should be. But why is the excessive brightness an issue? I’m between jobs, which means I can sleep in even if it’s Monday.
Still, I can’t shake the feeling something is amiss.
