“Seriously? So you two just take whatever you want and don’t give a damn about my privacy?” I huff.
“Don’t be dramatic. I told Chase to knock first and to only use the key if needed,” my brother-in-law says before he went out the door with boxes.
“I did knock, you know. When you didn’t answer, I used the key. I was afraid you had fallen and couldn’t get up,” Chase tells me, not even trying to mask his grin.
“Right, I’m sure you were completely concerned about my safety.”
“Well, your safety and your common sense. I mean, you were about to rent a place in the meth house, so….”
“It was temporary!” I yell, stomping off toward my bathroom. Chase’s chuckle follows me down the hall.
Asshole.
When I reach my bathroom, something else hits me. We’ve already taken all of my clothes and bathroom necessities out. That means I’m definitely staying at Chase’s tonight. I also don’t have anywhere to take my furniture, which means I need to make a call tomorrow to rent a storage unit. I don’t have a ton of stuff, but I know I can’t take it to my new roommate’s place. Hell, I’ve never even seen where he lives, but I’m pretty sure he doesn’t have room for an extra living room set, kitchen table, and bedroom suite. The good news is a storage unit won’t be too expensive and I’ll have access to my things as soon as I find an apartment.
Speaking of cost, we never did determine rent.
After using the restroom, I find the guys still in the kitchen.
“Wait, don’t take all that stuff. I’m going to rent a storage unit,” I tell them as they’re loading up all my kitchen boxes.
“You don’t need to,” Chase says absently, continuing to load my pots and pans.
“No, I do. I don’t have anywhere to keep this stuff,” I argue.
Harrison just smirks as he takes out another box, leaving Chase and me in the kitchen. “I have some room. You can store it at my place. Don’t waste your money on a storage unit.”
I consider my options. It would be handy to have my stuff readily available at Chase’s, but that doesn’t mean I want to fill up his place with a bunch of crap we don’t need right now. Of course, I’ll only be with him a couple of weeks, so maybe renting a storage unit is just a waste of time and money.
“Are you sure?”
“Trust me, Gabs. I have plenty of room,” he says as he loads up another box.
When Harrison’s truck is full too, we all meet in the kitchen. “Let’s clear out food and furniture tomorrow night,” Harrison says, wiping sweat from his brow.
“I really appreciate this,” I tell him, so thankful that I have their help. I couldn’t imagine trying to move my entire apartment by myself.
“Come on. Let’s get this stuff over to my place. We’ll stop and grab your car on the way,” Chase says, turning off the lights.
I grab my purse and phone and head toward the door. With a quick glance over my shoulder, I take a deep breath and close the door. My entire life is in boxes and apparently heading to Chase’s for storage. I still don’t believe him that he has all this extra space, but whatever. I guess if he doesn’t mind all the extra stuff, why should I?
When I’m buckled in the passenger seat of his truck, I finally broach the subject of rent. “So, how much rent do you want?”
“None,” he says, pulling slowly out onto the street.
“Chase, don’t be stupid. I’m going to pay you,” I argue, instantly annoyed that he’s being so nonchalant.
“I don’t need your money, Gabrielle,” he says bluntly, turning and heading toward the coffee shop parking lot.
“Well, you’re getting it anyway. I’m not staying for free,” I maintain, crossing my arms over my chest.
His eyes dart quickly from the road to my chest, causing warmth to spread through my veins. “I’m helping you out, right? That’s what friends do.”
“Yeah, but…” I start but trail off. In a way, he’s right. I know my friends would put me up in the guest bedroom (if they had one) for no rent money. But there’s something about living with Chase that says I need to pay the money. If I pay the money, then it’s a business transaction and I’ll have an easier time deflecting his advances, right?
Right.
“No, I’m paying. Pick a number and I’ll pay.”
He pulls into the small lot where my car is parked. “You’re not going to let this go, are you?” He exhales the words, putting his beast of a truck in Park.
“Nope.”
“Fine. Ten dollars.”
“A day?”
“No, just ten dollars total.”
“Chase, that’s dumb. The room is worth more than ten dollars. I could be there for up to three weeks. I’m paying you more than ten bucks,” I insist.
“Pay me whatever you want then, Gabby.” He huffs, exhaling. “But I’m not charging you.”
“I’ll pay the ten dollars a day,” I contend.
Chase rolls his eyes. “Whatever.”
“I’ll follow you,” I say as I slide out of his truck. He makes a noise but doesn’t comment further.
Using the key Harrison returned before we left, I slide into my car and cross my fingers. It fires to life immediately. Smiling, I back out of my spot and jump in at the end of the truck train. I follow along, watching my surroundings as we head to Chase’s place. I’m pleasantly surprised when we turn off Main Street and drive toward the hospital. This is a pretty nice area, the houses older, but well maintained. My favorite house is actually down this way. It’s at the end of a cul-de-sac with an empty lot beside it. I was told the new owner purchased the house and the lot a few years back.
Lucky bastards.
I’ve always loved that house. It’s huge with its four bedrooms and four baths. There’s a three-car attached garage and a large wraparound porch. Oh, don’t get me wrong, the house needs some work. The last time I was down this way, it was in desperate need of a fresh coat of paint and some landscaping, and even though I’ve never been inside the place, I always envisioned it to have an open-floor plan and lots of space for a family. Plus, it has a view of the lake behind it, which I’ve always loved.
Pulling myself from my daydream, I’m surprised when the guys pull down the cul-de-sac. Chase lives down here? I’m even more shocked when they pause and Chase backs his truck into a driveway. Not just any driveway, either.
My favorite house.
I’m sure my face is quite hilarious as I watch the third garage door open and his truck backs partway into the bay. Harrison backs in next, his truck stopping in front of the middle door, so I go ahead and slowly pull in front of the first door and stop my car.
“Seriously?” I ask, in complete shock and awe as realization really sets in. Chase owns this house? It’s my absolute favorite in the entire town, and Jerkface owns it?
Sliding out of my car, I take in the big wooden front door and the large bay window. I can see inside the dining room from where I stand and am instantly in love. I can’t believe I’m actually going to be staying here for the next few weeks.
“You okay?” Chase asks, concern evident in his voice.
“Oh, yeah. You live here?” I ask dumbly, glancing from the amazing front porch to him. He’s standing there, his hands in his pockets and a sheepish grin on his face.
“I bought it a couple years ago and have been fixing it up.” He smiles. “I’ve always loved this house,” he adds, looking over my shoulder.
“Me too,” I whisper and glance back at the front of the beautiful house.
“The neighborhood is pretty awesome. No one bothers me or the house, though some of the kids like to play catch in the lot next door. They asked permission one afternoon while I was mowing. I actually stopped what I was doing, went into the garage and dug out my glove, and went and played with them. The mowing had to wait until the next weekend,” he says absently, the corner of his lips turned upward as he remembers.
“That’s nice,” I reply, lookin
g over at the empty lot and picturing those boys over there playing ball.
“Well, we better get these trucks unloaded and then I’ll give you the tour,” he says, heading back to the garage.
I notice the potted plant sitting by the front door with a welcome sign beside it. I didn’t even notice the burnt red porch swing when I first glanced, but I see it now and it calls to me. I picture myself sitting on that swing in the evenings, watching the sun start to set. Yes, I can even see Chase sitting there beside me, a goofy smile on his face as his long, muscular legs slowly swing us back and forth.
My heart starts to pound and my tough-as-nails exterior cracks just a little bit more.
Chapter 4
Chase
Setting the last box against the wall in one of the spare bedrooms, I glance over at Gabby. She’s standing next to the queen-size bed, blowing out a puff of air that sends her hair flying out of her eyes. I can’t believe I was able to convince her to stay with me. I was prepared for weeks of cramped-up sleep on her couch, but this is so much better. I still won’t be getting much sleep, not knowing she’s just down the hall from me. It’s going to be the sweetest form of torture. At least I’ll have the softness of my king-size bed instead of her lumpy old couch.
“Ready for the tour?” I ask her.
“Definitely.” She turns to face me. “Thank you, Chase,” she says quietly. “I know this is an imposition, and I appreciate it very much. I’ll be out of your hair as soon as I can.”
I wave off her thanks. She has no idea that having her here is more than I could have hoped. Well, I take that back. She could be staying in my room, in my bed with me. We can’t win them all. Besides, slow and steady wins the race. This is my chance to show her that her preconceived idea of me is off. Way off. She completely missed the mark. “There are three bedrooms up here and two full bathrooms. At the end of the hall, there’s a linen closet. Extra blankets, sheets, and pillows. Help yourself to whatever you need.” As we pass each room, I push open the door allowing her to peek inside.
“I’ve always loved this house.” We move on down the hall to the next bedroom. “These two are empty,” she says.
“Yeah, I don’t really have many guests. I envision these being kids’ rooms. The sun sets on this side of the house, so no waking up the kiddos in the early morning.” I flash her a grin. “More Mom and Dad sleepy time.” Her mouth falls open. “What?” I ask.
“Y-You think about having kids?”
“Sure, doesn’t everyone?”
“No.” She shakes her head adamantly. “No, everyone does not.”
“You telling me you don’t want kids?” I don’t know how I feel about that. Sure, I don’t have any right now, but one day I’d like to be a father. I’m not opposed to those kids being with Gabby. But if she doesn’t want kids… I’m not sure.
“Of course I want kids. How could anyone be around little Sophia and not want to have kids?”
“Then why are you so shocked that I do?”
“Because you’re… you. Mr. Jerky McJerkface, player extraordinaire. I just can’t see you settling down. Is this all just a front? The house, the talk of kids?”
“Are you fucking kidding me?” Shaking my head, I turn and walk away. I rush down the steps and into the kitchen.
“Chase!” she calls after me. “We’re not done with my tour. If I’m going to be living here, I think you can give me at least that much.”
I’d give you so much more. “Kitchen,” I say flatly. “Over there is the laundry room that leads to the garage. You can park inside if you want. I’ll text you the code, and there is an extra opener hanging by the door in the laundry room. Down that hall is a half bath, the second door leads to the basement, and the bedrooms are all upstairs. Dining room,” I point behind me, “and family room.”
“Gee, thanks,” she sasses.
“Help yourself to whatever you need.” I give her my back as I open the refrigerator and start pulling out the supplies to make chicken stir-fry.
“What are you doing?” she asks.
“Making dinner.”
“You don’t have to try and impress me, Chase. I’ll be here for three weeks tops. Let’s just stay out of each other’s way.”
“Noted. But for your information, I’m not cooking just because you’re here. It’s dinner time, well past, and I’m starving.”
“So you cook all the time?”
“How else am I supposed to survive?”
She shrugs. “I just assumed you ate out.”
“Well, you know what they say about assuming? You make an ass out of yourself.”
“That’s not exactly how that saying goes,” she corrects.
“Don’t care. It’s the same concept. You assume a hell of a lot about me. Maybe you should calm the fuck down, Ms. Judgey McJudgepants.”
“Har har,” she says, biting down on her bottom lip. She’s trying not to smile and oddly enough, that brightens my mood.
“Have a seat.” I motion to one of the stools that’s next to the island.
She hesitates. “I should probably go unpack some clothes for tomorrow.”
“Dinner will be ready in thirty,” I tell her. She nods and walks out of the kitchen. I can hear her feet as they pad up the stairs. I exhale when she’s no longer in sight. I didn’t think when I asked her to stay with me. I just blurted it out. I have the space, and she was in a jam. However, now that she’s here, now her things are here, I’m not sure I know how to deal. I don’t think I can stick to this “friends only” rule she’s labeled us with. When I stayed with her, it was different; it was me on the couch, making sure she was okay. Now her things are here. My fucking house smells like her.
I don’t hate it.
My cell rings, pulling me out of my thoughts. I glance at the screen and can’t help but smile. Right, on time. “Hey, Mom,” I greet her after wiping my hands on a dish towel.
“Chase, how are you?” she asks.
“I’m good. How are you and Dad?”
“Good. This cruise is amazing. I wish you would have come with us.”
“What? And ruin Dad’s plans for alone time?” I tease.
“Oh, hush.” She laughs. “How’s work?”
“Good. Things are running smoothly. We’re finally back on track after all that drama with Gina.”
“I still can’t believe that. I’m so glad no one was seriously hurt. How’s that sweet baby of Harrison’s?”
“My goddaughter is perfect,” I say, and even I can hear the smile in my voice talking about Sophia.
Mom chuckles. “You ready to make me a grandma?”
“Colton knew what he was doing when he enlisted,” I grumble good-naturedly.
“You leave your brother out of this. He’s serving his country.”
“So he’s off the hook?”
“Not at all. As soon as he’s home safe and sound, I’ll be sure to ask him just the same as I ask you.”
“One day, Mom. One day. I have to fall in love first. You know that’s usually how these things work.”
“How are you going to fall in love if all you ever do is work?”
My eyes travel to the stairs. To Gabby. I can’t see her, but I know she’s there. “I’m working on it,” I tell her.
“Who is she?” she asks with interest.
“Oh, no you don’t, woman. You’re not getting any names. No, I won’t bring her to dinner. No, you can’t meet her. Just… no. It’s new, and we’re not even really dating,” I confess. My earlier “friends” conversation with Gabby flashes through my mind.
“Chase,” she whines.
“You’re on vacation,” I remind her. “Where’s Dad?”
“He went to pick our clothes up from the laundry. They do our laundry. Can you believe that?”
“It’s a three-week cruise.”
“I know. I’m being pampered. I’m not sure I’ll know what to do with myself when we get back home.”
“Good. Dad made the r
ight choice.”
“He did. Your father has always put a lot of thought into our anniversaries. You remember that when the time comes.”
“I learned from the best,” I tell her. It’s true. My dad is a quiet, stoic type. That is until it comes to me and my brother, Colton, or our mother. I can remember growing up, he had Colton and me help him surprise her for birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, and any other day he felt like she needed to be spoiled. One day when I have a wife, hell, a woman in my life at all, I’ll do whatever it takes to make her feel special. To make her feel loved.
“You did,” she says with a smile in her voice. “So, what else is new?”
“Nothing much. Gabby, Gwen’s sister, is staying here for a few weeks. She got an eviction notice and needed a place to stay.” It’s not a complete lie, just a small omission of the truth. She had other options, just none I was okay with.
“Harrison and Gwen wouldn’t let her stay there?” Mom asks, surprised.
“No, they were more than willing. Gabby is stubborn as hell and refused to impose on the newlywedded new parents. She was looking at that apartment building across from the jail.” I let that tidbit of information settle. “I offered for her to stay here until she found a decent place. It’s not like I don’t have the room, and I work so much, I’m hardly ever here.” Except for the fact, I’m already mentally switching my schedule so I can be here more. I want to be where she is.
“That’s true.” Mom sighs. “I worry about you, Chase. You work too much, and there is more to life than working.”
“I know that. It’s not forever. We just had a lot to get these new locations up and running. Harrison was getting married, again,” I add with a laugh. “And a baby on the way. Then all that sh-stuff with Gina. Things will slow down.”
“I hope so. Have you talked to Colt?” she asks.
“No. I’ve emailed him a few times. His replies are few and far between.”
“I worry,” she whispers.
My heart squeezes at the thought of something happening to my brother over there. This is his third deployment, and it never gets any easier. He was home about six months ago, for a week before he had to go back. It sucks, but that’s the path he’s chosen. We can’t do much else but hope and pray he makes it home safe.
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