The Office Rival: An Enemies-to-Lovers Romance

With a sly smirk, he continues to push our son, stopping only to wait for the lights to change. “Who would have thought that Miss OCD would have forgotten the baby bag at home? Because someone’s definitely dumped his load.”

I scowl as the whiff of his soiled nappy hits my nose. Haden turns the stroller back around as we begin our journey home again. How silly of me to think Masen could go ten minutes without pooping his pants.

“Sometimes I don’t know what’s happened to me, you know? It’s like my focus has shifted, and I can’t think ahead. Take, for example, apartment hunting. I have no idea what I’m after or where I’m even looking. Old Presley would have found a place by now, moved in, and already repainted the walls.”

“You’ve gone through a lot. It’s expected.”

“Maybe. The only place I’m even semi-excited about is this cute bungalow a street away from Gemma’s.”

He stops, prompting a couple behind us to swerve in annoyance. I swear they curse under their breaths, but Haden is oblivious.

“As in California?”

“Uh, yeah.” I take the stroller from him and continue pushing, hoping this argument can be avoided. What was I thinking? It’s merely an idea I’ve been toying with because Gemma and Melissa would be able to help me out. Nothing is concrete, though.

“Were you going to tell me about it?”

“No, because I was only looking. If I felt it was more serious, then yes, I would.”

“You didn’t even tell me you were thinking about it. What about Masen? I live here… how can I see him every night?”

We reach the door to my building, and I stop in front of it. He is standing against the railing with his arms folded, nostrils flaring like a bull ready to attack. Apparently, I’m holding the red flag. Surprise, surprise. Mr. Irrational is acting like a petulant child.

“Would you keep your panties on? Nothing, and I mean nothing, is set in stone. I’m keeping all my options open. I’d have consulted with you first. I realize it’s not just my decision.”

His trademark move of running his hands through his hair begins. “Bullshit. You don’t care what I think. I’m going home.” He doesn’t say another word, turning his back on me and walking out of sight.

I told him I was looking at all of my options. Of course, I can’t just up and go, but the more I think about it, the more it makes sense to move. With the money I have from the sale of the apartment, I’ll have a healthy down payment on a house in California. Masen will have a backyard and warm weather almost year-round. I can afford to work part-time, and most importantly, Gemma and Melissa will be close by. Charlie and I have been emailing back and forth about California. She is extremely helpful, giving me tips on the best schools and places to take Masen.

Well, it’s a thought.

Just that.

For now, the Jerk has nothing to worry about.

By now, I’m used to his little temper tantrums.

I move on and push the stroller into the building, quickly making my way to the elevator. Upon arriving at my floor, I take out my keys and notice a man standing beside my door. He looks familiar, but I’m on guard just in case. I wrap my hand around the mace in my purse. He tilts his head sideways, and I catch a glimpse of his jawline.

I would recognize that jawline anywhere.

“Jason?” I ask, in awe.

“Presley… wow…”

He moves his focus to the stroller and appears to be in shock. “I was told you had a baby and thought it was a joke, but I had to see for myself. You have a baby.”

“Yes, I know I should have told you, but it’s complicated.”

We both stand there at a loss for words.

Jason, seeing me with a baby.

And myself, having forgotten how handsome he is.

He reaches his arms out, and I move forward and hug him. My body instantly relaxes in his embrace. But I don’t want to complicate things, so I pull away, unable to control my happiness at seeing him again.

“Jase, I can’t believe you’re here.”