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“In what way?”
“I mean, it’s pretty obvious you’re already falling for him. I’m not sure what the neanderthal’s intentions are”—I snort a little at the nickname—“but what I do know is that if you continue, you could get hurt. And I’d hate for you to get hurt.”
I sigh softly and sip some of my coffee. “Maybe I’m reading into things that aren’t actually there. I was pretty upset last night and Carlo comforted me. It was basic human decency. I doubt he has any feelings. He’s always so professional when it comes to our arrangement.”
Nora laughs. “Right, because sleeping next to you in the same bed is so professional.”
“He didn’t plan on it. It just sort of happened,” I mutter.
“Listen, Tori. You know I think you’re a woman of steel and strong as heck, but it kind of seems to me like he’s got you wrapped around his finger. And I’d hate for him to exploit that.”
“He won’t,” I say firmly. “I’m an adult, Nora. I can handle myself.”
“You have feelings for your fake boyfriend,” she argues.
“IthinkI have feelings for him,” I correct. “It could just be hormones or pheromones and whatnot. I’m sure it’s fine.”
“It has been a long time since you had sex,” Nora muses. “You think you’re sexually frustrated?”
I laugh. “Maybe.”
The conversation switches to something else and I enjoy the rest of my break in the company of someone I’m grateful to have in my life. Just before we leave the cafeteria, Nora places a hand on my shoulder.
“You can talk to me anytime, Tori. I’ll listen and try to be less judgmental.”
“Thanks.”
“Also, don’t get mad, but I’ll also be freezing the ice cream until he eventually breaks your heart because I have a feeling he will and we’ll be needing lots of it.”
I roll my eyes. “You’re being ridiculous.”
“Oh, my sweet, sweet friend,” Nora says, leaning to hug me. “Gotta go back to impending death.”
I laugh as she walks off in the direction of the emergency room. It was definitely a good idea to tell her the truth. It feels like a weight’s been lifted off me. At least I have someone I can depend on. Still, a part of me is worried. With what happened last night with Carlo and me trusting Nora with the truth, I’m worried that I’m losing all the cards I keep closest to my heart. They are suddenly in the perfect position to hit me where it hurts.
I manage to make it for another hour before I give in to something that’s been niggling at me all day. Before I can stop myself, I grab my phone and text him.
Me: Where are you?
He replies ten seconds later. I ignore the thrill that shoots through me as I read his response.
Carlo: At work.
Me: Okay. How do you plan to get your car?
Carlo: I was going to come pick it up later. Maybe drop you off at home while I’m at it. What time do you get off?
Me: Eight-ish
Carlo: I might not be done by then. I’ve got a lot of shit to do.
Me: It’s fine, Carlo. I have my own car. I can just drive it home and then you can come pick up your car here. I’ll leave your key with the security guard.
Carlo: Still…
I try hard not to smile at his obvious hesitation.
Me: You’re not my chauffeur, D’Angelo. I’m perfectly capable of driving myself home.
