I nod, but I’m thinking, Why the hell not? Does he have something to hide? Maybe he doesn’t want Mari to know?
He adds, “I don’t have her number anymore.”
“I do. I’ll text and let her know you’re in L.A.,” Evie says, pulling her phone out.
Bradley’s expression tightens for a moment. I catch it, but Evie, busy with her phone, doesn’t.
“And why don’t I give you her number so you can call her tonight?” she asks.
His eyes brighten. “I’d love that.”
He seems sincere when he speaks, but why do I have a feeling he’s not going to do any of that? And unless I’m mistaken, he doesn’t want Evie contacting Mari either.
“Where are you staying?” Evie asks, texting quickly.
“At a motel for now. I’m looking for a small apartment.”
Concern crosses her face as she lifts her gaze from her phone. Time to step in before she does something she shouldn’t—like invite this man into our home.
“Why don’t I put you up at the Aylster?” I say. “It should be more comfortable, and you’ll be closer to our place.” That part isn’t necessary an advantage, but it’s for Evie’s benefit.
Bradley laughs, waving his hand like I’m just too much. “I can’t. And you don’t have to. You don’t even know me.”
“Ah, we’ll get to know each other as the time goes on. But I just can’t have you staying at some motel. Really, you’re practically family.” God, I’m laying it on thick. He better not insist I call him Pops or something.
“Listen to Nate, Dad. He’s right. We’d normally offer you a room at home, but…” She clears her throat. “It’s a little complicated.”
It is? I didn’t know that, but I’m glad she thinks there are enough complications not to invite Bradley to stay with us.
Evie calls the Aylster. It’s just pro forma, though. Of course the hotel always has a suite for a guest of the Sterlings. Of course they’ll be more than happy to make his stay comfortable.
And now that she has her phone out, she exchanges phone numbers with her dad. Although I don’t want him having her number, there’s no socially acceptable way to prevent it. I don’t bother giving him mine, since I don’t want him to have direct access to my personal mobile. Mari earned my respect or trust when she came to visit; this guy hasn’t. Evie taps a few more things on her phone, then puts it away.
After dinner, Bradley says he’s tired from the excitement of the day.
“Of course,” I say. “Besides, you have to pack your things to move.” Let’s not linger, because I’ve hit my acting limit for the day.
“I know, right?” He laughs heartily. “Thank you for that.”
“My pleasure. Anything for Evie’s dad.”
Something sparks in his eyes. It’s so quick, I wonder for a moment if I imagined it.
Bradley’s expression returns to a mix of mild shyness and joy. “Anyway, I should get going. Get some sleep and have a good evening, Evie.” He nods at me. “Nate.”
We leave the restaurant together. He whistles, then waves at Evie before getting into his car. The tension that’s been gripping me since I laid my eyes on him loosens a bit, but I know this is just the beginning.
* * *
Evie
When we’re walking into home from the garage, my phone rings. It’s Mom. I smile, my heart swelling with joy. Bet she wants to know all about Dad’s visit!
“Hey, sweetie,” Mom says.
Nate looks at me inquiringly, and I mouth, Mom. He nods and goes upstairs. I stay below, taking a seat on the couch facing Barron’s X-rated art and toe off my shoes. It’s good thing Nate offered to put Dad up at the hotel, because I’m not sure how I’d explain the statue.
“So what’s going on? You said to call as soon as possible,” she says.