“What is it? What happened?”
“Nothing I can’t handle.”
There’s an ache in the pit of my stomach. Devlin.
“What did he do?”
I can hear Rick sigh. “Just making some mild threats. Haven’t seen him in a few days. I think he finally got the hint.”
“He threatened you?” The moment the word leaves Rick’s mouth, it’s the only thing I can focus on.
“Nothing worse than he’s done before.”
Tears prick my eyes at the thought of everything Rick’s going through because of me.
“I’m so sorry, Rick.”
“Don’t be.” I can hear him chuckle on the other end. “Nothing makes me happier than putting that prick in his place. Except, of course, knowing you’re doing well. You and Hazel getting along okay?”
“Better than okay,” I tell him, allowing the conversation about Devlin to drop. “Didn’t she tell you we’re best friends?”
Another laugh from Rick. “That sounds like Hazel, alright.”
“Seriously though, she’s amazing.”
I can practically feel the ‘I told you so’ radiating through the phone. Must be a family trait.
“Have you given any more thought to singing?”
“Yeah, I thought about it, but honestly, it’s just too painful.”
“One day.”
“Yeah, maybe.”
“And the job hunt? Any luck?”
“Negative. Apparently, you’re the only person on the planet willing to hire someone with no experience.”
“Then I must be the only one with eyes. One look at you and I knew you were capable of amazing things. It’ll all work out. It will just take some time.”
Time I have. It’s the money part I’m running out of.
“In the meantime, I can send more money.”
Part of me desperately wants to accept his offer, but I’m already so indebted to him. If it wasn’t for him and his generosity, none of this would have been possible.
I stop in front of the apartment building.
“I have to go, but I’ll call you soon.”
“Ember, I mean it. If you need anything… call.”
“I will.” Not. “I miss you.”
“I miss you, too. Take care and call me soon.”
I clutch the phone to my chest and allow myself a moment, just a moment, to miss my old life. At least, the parts of it that didn’t include Devlin.