I blink a few times as my thoughts of Susie’s body are replaced by this question. Then I nod in what I hope is a casual manner.
“Sometimes, yes. I do definitely try to get some separation but yeah, when you live right above your workplace, things can get a little too close for comfort. I’m a workaholic, though, so being this close to my job can be helpful at times too.”
Susie nods thoughtfully. “Yeah, I can understand that. I’m a freshman at Coleman University, so sometimes it seems like work and personal life just blur into one. But I guess that’s what college is about, right?”
I grin.
“Yeah, pretty much. But how do you create boundaries? Maybe I can learn from you.
Susie giggles.
“Through a couple of different ways. I try to study outside of my dorm so that there’s separation from where I sleep from where I hit the books. The library or cafes are good spots to put my head down for some serious work. Then, I try to take walks just to de-stress, and tend to have “study friends” and “real friends.” They don’t always overlap, believe it or not.”
I nod.
“Yeah, people definitely have diverse college experiences with lots of different groups of friends. But tell me, do you have a major yet?”
Susie shakes her head.
“Nope, I’m undecided. I keep taking general education requirements and a couple other random classes, but I haven’t figured out my end goal yet. Of course, Mom would prefer I find a nice doctor or lawyer candidate and drop out entirely. As you can tell, Nanette is all about me getting my M-R-S degree.”
I chuckle with amusement. “Yeah, that definitely sounds like the Nanette I remember from high school, but you know you don’t have to listen to her, right? Your college experience should be an experience of your choosing, and if being an introvert is what you want, then you should do it.”
Susie smiles ruefully.
“Thanks, because it’s nice to hear that from someone, and I do study a lot. I guess it shows that I’m the nerdy type, right? Then again, I just wish Nanette appreciated that more because imagine how many parents would be thrilled if their kid actually wanted to hit the books. Mom, on the other hand, just has such different priorities, and I try not to let her comments get to me.”
I nod with approval.
“Good. You seem to have a strong head on your shoulders.”
Susie smiles gently.
“Well, I’m glad you approve, Mr. Turnbull.”
A warm feeling crawls across my chest, and quickly, I tamp it down even as I steal another look at the girl’s big bosom. Shit, I need to stop because I’m old enough to be this woman’s father. To make things worse, I even dated her mother in high school, so I definitely shouldn’t be looking at Susie like this.
I clear my throat and try to keep the conversation kosher.
“So you said you like to study?” It’s a lame question, but it’s the best I can do right now, and fortunately, Susie lights up.
“I do. Nerdy, right? But I’ve always been good when it comes to academics, and it’s continued through college. I’m doing well on my exams and quizzes, and hope to pull off a 4.0 this semester. Grades haven’t come out yet, but I think there’s a real possibility.”
I let out a whistle, leaning back in my chair.
“Wow, that’s impressive. I mean, I’m no dunce but I think think the highest I ever got was a 3.6 one semester, and that was my freshman year as well.”
Susie nods as her eyes shine.
“Honestly, I’m just really good at taking tests and stuff. And I study hard. Those are the only reasons I’m doing well.”
I nod.
“You’re very modest, but you should be proud of yourself, sweetheart. A 4.0 is nothing to scoff at.”
Susie laughs lightly. “Well, I haven’t gotten it yet, so I may have spoken too soon. But I’ll let you know what happens,” she winks. Then, we’re quiet for a few moments before she clears her throat. “So yeah, thanks for letting me crash with you tonight, Ed. I really appreciate it, and I’ll slip out tomorrow morning and find somewhere new. There are plenty of local places I can stay at, like AirBnB and hostels and such.”
I nod, keeping my expression neutral.
“No, it’s fine. No need to leave in a rush because like I said, we’ll figure it out. Let’s talk again in the morning.”
“Okay,” Susie agrees, although she doesn’t sound so sure. But I know there’s no way she can escape without waking me up first because I’ll be on the couch, and as a light sleeper, even the smallest noise with rouse me from my rest. Plus, I understand what it’s like being a broke college kid. I don’t know that Susie’s technically broke, but she’s definitely in a strange spot, and there’s no need for her to tiptoe out like an unwelcome guest. I lean back and smile reassuringly.