“I could always try driving out in the country.”
Her brother rolled his eyes. “Let’s think about it for a bit, okay?”
She sighed. “Yes.”
Hannah thought about asking someone else. She knew she scared the crap out of her brother the last time, but she felt she could do it with practice. Besides, she was determined to learn how to take care of herself.
She’d been thinking about getting her own place because she felt like she was a weight around her brother’s shoulders. He shouldn’t have to take care of a twenty-two-year-old woman just because she couldn’t seem to be able to grow up.
The new job would be her focus for now, but she’d also start working on learning to drive and finding a place to live close to her job so she could walk to and from. The plan of action made her feel better.
Chapter Four
Late Tuesday morning, Cason and Lacey were showing her the building. They were on a floor that was being renovated into a condo. They had already shown her the office. She couldn’t believe how big it was. She hadn’t even counted the stories in the place, and she liked how it wasn’t all steel and glass but had some charm to it with the moldings around the windows and doors.
“There are twelve more floors that we’ll turn into condos after this one. Not only for any employee who wants one but also if we find people who need time to adjust before going home.”
“That’s a great idea.” Hannah turned in a circle. The place wasn’t half-finished, but she could already see how it would look. “This is amazing. I can imagine the colors and furniture placement.”
Hannah heard Lacey clap and turned.
“What do you think?” Lacey asked Cason.
Hannah’s brow puckered at the silent communication going on.
“I think it’s a great idea,” Cason said. “Ask her.”
Lacey grabbed her hand and practically vibrated with excitement, making Hannah smile.
“Would you want to decorate and get each condo ready with basics? You’ll still have the other job, but…”
Hannah giggled. “Yes!”
Cason chuckled. “Oh, hey, we’re just showing the new girl around.”
Hannah didn’t have to turn around to know who Cason was talking to or who was behind her because the energy in the room changed. She squeezed Lacey’s hand.
“What?” Lacey asked in concern.
“Can you show me the next floor?” Hannah whispered to her.
Lacey’s eyes filled with tears. “Yes.” She looked at Cason. “I’m taking Hannah up to the next floor.”
They got to the elevator and were almost home free.
“Are you not going to even look at me, little bird?” Cullen said.
She closed her eyes tightly and took a deep breath before plastering a smile on her face and turning. “Hello, Cullen. I hope you’re doing well.”
He narrowed his eyes at her. “I’m well, but it doesn’t look like you are, little bird.”
She gritted her teeth and ignored the curiosity of the two other people in the area. “I would prefer not being called that, please.”
“Why?” Cullen asked. “Is it because it’s my pet name for you?”
“No, it’s because the little bird died. Now, only Hannah is left.”
The shock of the three in the room made her want to run. She hadn’t meant to say that even though she had died twice, and they’d been able to revive her both times. Fortunately, she couldn’t remember it.