Total pages in book: 85
Estimated words: 82453 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82453 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
She sighs. “I was talking to him earlier, and he was the one who suggested I take you to see Elio. I think he just wants you to be as happy as he is.”
“I am happy,” I insist. “I don’t want Tel to get his hopes up about my future. I don’t know what that looks like right now, so I want to keep this new relationship quiet.”
She mimes locking her lips closed with a key before playfully tossing it over her shoulder. “I won’t tell a soul.”
I reach forward to squeeze her forearm. “Thank you, Posey.”
“I need you to keep a secret for me, too.” She bows her head before her eyes latch onto mine.
“I will,” I assure her. “I won’t tell anyone.”
“I’m craving pasta from Calvetti’s.” She laughs. “Elio would be heartbroken if he knew that I was passing on his food to indulge in Mrs. Calvetti’s spaghetti, but I need it bad.”
Laughing, I start toward the guestroom door. “Let’s go there. Dinner is on me. You’ve created something I know my sister will treasure forever. I can’t thank you enough for that.”
CHAPTER FIFTY-ONE
Carrie
After plucking a piece of lint from the skirt of my gray dress, I shift my gaze back to my phone’s screen.
I know what Rook told me the last time we were at this hotel, but I still wish he would have texted me back at some point this afternoon.
I read the text message I sent to him about an hour ago.
Carrie: I’m going to the hotel at 6. That’s okay, right?
When he didn’t respond by five thirty, I tried calling his cell, but it went straight to voicemail. That’s when I typed out another text message, hoping it would grab his attention.
Carrie: I’m going to soak in that heavenly tub before you arrive. As promised, you’ll find me naked on the bed at 8 sharp.
A quick glance at my phone tells me it’s almost six, so I should hop on the elevator and make my way up to the suite. Not wanting to take advantage of Rook’s generosity, I dial his office number.
Svea picks up almost immediately. “Rook Thorsen’s office.”
Surprised to hear her voice, I clear my throat. “Hi, Svea. It’s Carrie Gilbert.”
“Carrie.” Her tone softens. “How are you? How’s Abby? I can’t wait for her to get back from her honeymoon.”
“I’m good,” I say slowly, giving myself time to come up with a reason why I would be calling Rook. “Abby’s great. I’m excited for her to come home, too.”
“Are you calling about the mural?” She jumps straight into an assumption that works in my favor. “Posey showed me a few pictures she took of it, and all I can say is wow.”
“It’s even more breathtaking in person,” I tell her.
“When she was in earlier, she said it’s complete.” She pauses before she goes on, “I know she was looking for Rook to tell him that in person, and I assume you’re trying to get word to him about that, too.”
“Yes,” I lie. “I’ve tried texting him a couple of times. Do you know how I can reach him?”
“You can’t,” she says succinctly. “He’s been out of the office with a very important client for most of the afternoon. She had some pressing issues and needed Rook to take care of them with her, so I assume his phone is set to silent. I have a number I can reach him at, but he was clear that I’m only to use it if it’s regarding his daughter.”
“Of course,” I say, relieved that there’s a plausible explanation for Rook not answering my texts.
“He said I should expect to hear from him around seven for any updates.” She clicks her tongue. “I’ll let him know then that you called.”
“That’s not necessary.” I shake my head even though I know she can’t see me. “I’m sure Posey will tell him about the mural.”
“She’s so excited that she definitely will.” She laughs. “Have a good night, Carrie.”
I wish her the same as I end the call.
Glancing at the bank of elevators, I smile. “I’m about to have a very good night.”
I type out one last text message and press send before I stand.
Carrie: I’m on my way up to the suite now. I can’t wait to see you.
Pressing a hand to my stomach, I say a small prayer, hoping that my lunch will stay put.
I’m not only nauseous, but I’m lightheaded, too.
I reach out a hand to grab hold of the foyer table in the hotel suite, but all that does is lure my gaze to the small decorative bowl that sits atop it.
Placed neatly in there is a pair of silver cufflinks and a watch.
It’s an Abdons watch, and I’ve seen it wrapped around Rook’s wrist many times.
“God! You know how to fuck!” A woman’s voice sounds through the suite from the partially ajar bedroom door.