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Tommy yawns against my cheek in answer.
I settle us in a plush recliner in the sitting room and dig my phone from my back pocket. I dial Rhett first, knowing he’ll probably ask the least questions.
He answers immediately. “Twice in one day, huh?”
“You called me the first time. Don’t make it sound like something it’s not.”
“Are you saying you don’t miss me?” The straight grit in his question sends warning bells to my lower region. Now is definitely not the time to stoke that particular fire.
“Oh, I’d never. That’s admitting way too much. Though I have gotten used to your company over the past few weeks.”
“Ouch.”
I laugh. “Unfortunately, I’m calling to cancel our plans.”
A brief pause. “Oh?”
“I’ve been roped into some extra work for a client. Paid, of course, so I couldn’t say no.”
The second pause is a beat longer. “I’m glad it’s not something serious keeping you back.”
“The opposite, actually. With this unexpected money, I think I’m ready to start scoping out a place.”
“That’s wonderful news, Evie. I’m happy for you.” Except he sounds incredibly disappointed.
“Is something going on with you today? You sound upset.”
Rhett clears his throat. “No, nothing wrong here.”
“You know if you were looking forward to tonight, you’re welcome to still meet them for dinner. Is that weird? I’m sorry if that’s weird.” I’m thankful he can’t see the flush covering my cheeks and chest.
“It’s not weird. Though I think I’m going to take the time to get some more work done here.”
This conversation veers into awkward territory. “Understandable. I have to let them know I can’t make it, so I’m going to let you go.”
“Will I see you later?”
His question cools the heat of embarrassment but strikes a different flame. “I have the room for one more night, so if you’re open to it, I am too.”
“Not even a question, Rosie.”
“We’re on the same page then.”
“See you tonight.”
“Bye, Rhett.”
Immediately after hanging up, I find my brother’s contact. Just as the phone rings, Tommy twists and tries to climb out of my arms. “Oh, okay little guy. Let me set you down.”
“I don’t know who you’re talking to, but I don’t think that was meant for me,” Eric says in answer.
“Don’t be weird,” I fire back as I walk behind a wandering Tommy. “I have to be that person and cancel tonight. A moneymaking gig fell into my lap.”
“This wouldn’t have anything to do with a certain guy you’ve been sleeping with?”
“Fortunately for your sensitive ears, I can honestly say no. My client was in desperate need of a last-minute babysitter and offered to double my wage for the day if I stayed.”
I follow Tommy into the kitchen. His little fingers wrap around the side of my palm. I swear my heart transforms into a puddle of goo. While leading us to whatever he wants to show me, he yanks on the handle to the fridge as my brother says, “Damn.”
