She sighed. “I must have scared him half to death, face-planting the floor.”
“You tripped over a chair. You’re going to have some bruising on your body.”
Chloe sighed. “I’ve had worse.”
“You’ve asked for worse,” Suzy said, smirking.
“You’re good for the soul, did you know that?”
“I should put that on all future friendship applications. Benefit of befriending Suzy, she’s an awesome friend.”
“And an awesome girlfriend,” Pixie said.
“Am I going to be grossed out by you two?” Chloe asked. “Do I need to go apartment hunting?”
“No,” they both said in unison.
“No apartment hunting,” Suzy said. “Pixie may be staying over sometimes.”
Chloe nodded. “I’m getting tired. I hate to push you out, but I need—”
“You need rest. Don’t say any more.” Suzy jumped up out of her seat. “We’re not going away until you’re back home, and well.”
“I’ll hurry,” Chloe said.
“No, no need to hurry, take your time.”
Chloe watched them leave, and made herself sit up. She was still so tired, and her body ached all over.
“You’re not going to invite me in?” Richard asked.
She looked toward the door, seeing him carrying a large bouquet of roses. “Wow, they’re huge.”
“I want you to get well soon.”
“They’re beautiful.” Chloe saw they already had a vase and water. “You prepare for everything, don’t you?”
“Of course. Only a fool does things by halves.”
She didn’t know why she was so nervous around him. It was Richard, a man she had slept with. A man she loved, and yet, she couldn’t shake the nerves that filled her when he was near.
“You didn’t have to stay at the hospital. I know how busy you are.”
“I’ll never be too busy for you, Chloe.”
He stood at the base of her bed, his hands gripping the railing. The suit he wore did nothing to hide the thick muscles of his arms.
She licked her lips.
“What is it?” he asked.
“Nothing.”
“I didn’t even realize you were sick.”
“Don’t worry about it. I didn’t realize I was sick.”
“I’m supposed to know.”