“You were right about this one thing. I know I was a dick about your gift at first, but thank you.”
“You’re welcome,” she sings.
“Don’t gloat too much. It isn’t healthy for your pregnancy.”
She cackles. “Hilarious.”
I grin. “I named her Ember, and she’s... good for me, like you said. I think the ice block around my heart melted a little since last week.”
“Oh, don’t say that. Your heart isn’t made of ice.”
I grunt. “Anyway, Ember and I are enjoying a walk. How are you doing? How’s the fetus?”
“I’m fine, and why can’t you call it a baby like everyone else?”
“You’re six months along and the kid isn’t born yet. It’s medically referred to as a fetus.”
“Jesus, Row, do I have to get you another pet? A cute little kitten this time?”
My lips twitch as I follow Ember’s lead past some benches. “One furball is enough, thanks.”
Just ahead, I spot a familiar face. She’s looking away from me so I can only see her profile, but I’d know that face anywhere. I’ve fantasized about it enough.
“Shit, now she’s really going to think I’m stalking her.”
“What are you talking about?” Mel asks.
“Nothing. I’ve got to go. We’ll talk later.”
“Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m fine.”
“Okay... later,” Mel hums.
I hang up and stuff the phone back into my pocket, then I tug gently on Ember’s leash. If we turn around and walk the other way, Grace won’t know I was here. But Ember promptly gives us away with one of her struggle howls, and Grace turns in our direction and looks right at me.
“Damn.”
Reluctantly, I walk over to her. If I don’t, I’ll look like both a stalker and an impolite dick. “Grace, hi.”
She smiles up at me, but it isn’t as bright as usual. “Hey, Rowan.”
“I’m walking my dog,” I stupidly announce. I just don’t want her to get that suspicious look in her eyes again.
Her eyes drop to Ember and then back up to me. Amusement dances across her face. “I can see that.”
I study her strained smile and dim eyes that are suspiciously glassy. Like she was crying. “Are you okay?”
She nods and turns her attention to Ember. “If it isn’t the cutest fluff ball ever.” She rubs the puppy’s head and glances up. “Still Dog?”
“Ember,” I say proudly, as if naming a dog is a huge accomplishment. I suppose it is for me.
Grace’s face lights up. “At last. I love it.”
“Yeah, she chose it herself.”
Grace giggles and I stare at her until her smile fades. “Grace, are you okay?” I ask again.
She breathes in deeply. “Sure. I mean, I’m trying to be. I have a lot on my mind, so I started walking and ended up here.” Her shoulders slump and the air of defeat surrounding her is hard to miss.
I should leave her alone, but it’s almost six in the evening. No way am I leaving her sitting forlornly on a park bench. I really shouldn’t, but... “Do you want a lift back to your place?”
“You mean, your place?” she asks with a small smile.
“Okay, my place it is. I’ve already got dinner waiting.” What am I doing?
Her lips part and her cheeks flush. “No, I didn’t mean... I was just reminding you that I’m staying in your apartment, so technically it’s your place.”
I smile. “I know what you meant. Still, the offer of dinner stands. Let’s go.”