The hand gripping my towel wouldn't stop shaking. When I spoke, the words came out cracked.
"Leonard, this is our shared condo."
Every word landed heavy and raw.
But Leonard didn't hear it.
He frowned at me, a flicker of irritation in his eyes. "We're not even married, are we?"
"So don't call it 'ours' like it means something."
"Constance, quit stirring up trouble over nothing."
Naomi didn't say a word, head down, eating quietly, but her shoulders were trembling with barely concealed laughter.
I said nothing. I gathered my things and moved to the guest room.
Just a few more days. I could endure a few more days.
My flight was the day after tomorrow. Once I was gone, let's see who Naomi could get to operate on her.
I'd barely sat down when my phone rang.
It was Aaron Whitney.
"My dear lady, please tell me you haven't forgotten your Monday flight."
His familiar, irreverent voice came through the speaker. I always told him I couldn't stand him, but right now that voice felt like a lifeline.
"I haven't."
"Aaron, what if my condition really is bad enough to need surgery?"
A pause on the other end. "Constance, don't be scared."