Creating healthy boundaries and locking her out of my room and heart is the best thing for us both.
Isn’t it?
Chapter Fourteen
EVERLEIGH
Counting inventory and putting up new items typically takes me hours. It consists of unboxing clothes, checking every single item, then steaming out wrinkles before hanging them up. Quality control is important to me, so I personally put my eyes and hands on every single hem.
Lexie volunteered to help, which is why I won’t be stuck here till midnight. She enjoys opening the boxes just as much as I do, especially since they have no idea what I’ve ordered until it arrives.
This shipment is more winter clothes with sweaters of different thicknesses and winter leggings even though Alabama doesn’t get that cold.
“I love these so much,” Lexie says, holding up a pair of wool-lined leggings.
“Take those home with you.”
“You’re sure?” She gives me a wide-eyed expression.
“Absolutely. That way, when you’re asked about them, you can give your opinion.” I wink.
“Oh my goodness, thank you. You’re seriously the best boss I’ve ever had!”
I laugh. “I’ve got to award my manager somehow.”
“That’s for damn sure,” she tells me with a laugh as we continue unpackaging shirts.
By the time everything's in place, I look up at the clock and see it’s just past eight thirty. My stomach is growling nonstop. I hurry and sweep the floor, then throw all the plastic wrappers in the trash. Lexie and I lock up and walk out together.
“Thanks again for your help,” I say again, waving goodbye.
“Any time.” She grins. “Appreciate the leggings. I’m wearing them tomorrow during my shift.”
“Do it!” I chuckle, then get in my car.
As I drive home, all I can think about is snuggling into Archer’s body and him holding me close. It’s a dangerous game we’re playing. I should stop it before it ends badly, but I don’t have the strength to. I’m not the best at relationships, but I’d try for Archer—if he’d give us a chance.
He makes me want more than just a hookup, someone to settle down with and build a life—something that’s never crossed my mind before.
I park in my driveway, then look in the rearview mirror to make sure the street is clear of suspicious vehicles before getting out.
Ever since the detectives came and talked to me, I’ve been jumpy and am convinced someone’s tailing me. I force the thoughts away and go inside the house. All the lights are turned off except for the Christmas tree. It casts a warm glow against the walls and creates a homey atmosphere that I love so much. It always makes me a little sad to take it down.
Knowing Archer’s already asleep, I make a sandwich, then quickly shower. Once I’m ready for bed, I go to Archer’s room like usual. When I turn the knob, it doesn’t open. I slowly twist it again and confirm that he’s really locked me out.
My smile fades, and it feels like a punch to the gut when I think I hear a woman’s voice on the other side.
“Wow. Okay, then,” I mumble to myself, then decide I need a glass of wine. I pull the merlot from the cabinet, and when I turn, Sassy’s at my feet. Needing some fresh air, I leave everything on the counter and lead her out.
She bolts forward, immediately barking and growling. Squinting, I notice a tall, dark silhouette and scream. Before I can see their face, they take off running, disappearing into the shadows. Sassy continues barking as I try to catch my breath and calm my racing heart.
Moments later, the back porch light flicks on, and Archer walks out. “What happened?”
“There was someone out here. I think it was a man by the height and built, but I’m not sure.” I blow out a slow breath as he comes closer. “They bolted that way,” I explain, pointing in the direction.
“I’ll be right back,” Archer says, then crosses the yard to walk around the house to the front.
Sassy finally finds a spot to pee, then we go back into the house and wait for Archer.
“Whoever it was is long gone,” he returns, shaking his head. “I think I heard a car speed off.”
I immediately think of the black SUV.
Archer gently grabs my elbow and pulls me in. “You’re shaking.”
“It looked like he was near my bedroom window,” I say.
Sitting me down at the breakfast bar, he puts some water in a kettle. “Tea?”
“Archer, you don’t have to do this. You can go back to your guest.” I stand to take over, but he gives me a puzzled look.
“You think I have someone in my room?”
I freeze, embarrassed by my assumption. “I thought I heard a woman’s voice. Isn’t that why you locked the door?”
Archer crosses his arms over his broad chest and sighs. “I was talking to my sister. And that’s not why I locked the door.”