I'm standing in Chase's living room, watching as the workers he hired carry boxes containing my belongings. My landlord came to see me the next day after the incident. He asked me to leave in a few days. Because Chase's offer was the only viable option, I had no choice but to accept.
"This is going to be your room." Chase motions to the open door down the hall.
"I hope everything is fine."
"I doubt I'll be here long, just until I find a better option, so there's no need for me to be picky."
"You are welcome to stay as long as you want."
"Thank you, but I'm hoping to find a new place to live soon so I don't take advantage of your hospitality."
"Believe me, I don't mind. I'm rarely home; I'm either at the office or out of town. So I won't see you very often."
"Is that dissatisfaction I hear in your voice?"
"Just out of curiosity."
"Right now, my schedule isn't too demanding, so I'll be at home more than usual." My stomach clenches as I consider how much time I'll be spending with the man in front of me. It's like a nightmare. A heinous and torturous nightmare. A worker informs me that all of the boxes have been delivered to my room and that their job is complete.
While Chase follows the workers to the front door, I make my way to my new bedroom. This place is far superior to anything I could ever afford! How will I ever be able to leave this beautiful room with such an amazing view? It's just too perfect! Chase walks into the room, leaning against the door frame.
"Is that all you have?" I look around the room at the four boxes.
"It is. All of my belongings are in there. It's mostly personal items and clothing."
"Do you require assistance with unpacking?"
"No problem; I can do it myself."
"Are you worried about me discovering something too personal?"
"It isn't." He laughs, and I realize he's just joking. It's nice to have him around in this capacity. It's not the same. It's not just about work or sex.
"I'll be fine on my own."
"All right, give me a call if you need anything."
I spend the next hour putting everything back in its place until I hear the phone buzzing in the living room. Chase walks into my room a minute later and notices me unpacking my lingerie. His gaze is drawn to the tiny piece of clothing in my hands. I notice his Adam's apple bob before heat rushes to my cheeks.
"What's the matter?"
"Nothing." Chase takes a deep breath, and his gaze is drawn to mine. He was attempting to clear his mind.
"Dinner is here."
"Wonderful! I'm starving." I follow Chase out of the room and into the kitchen, where a delicious meal is already prepared.
"Wow, I think I'm in a restaurant." I take a look around: the table is piled high with delicious food, candles illuminate the dim room, and slow music plays in the background, creating a romantic atmosphere.
"I placed an order with Luxe Dine Haven."
"Wait! Isn't it the most expensive restaurant? I can't believe you just went there and ordered food."
"Why not? The food there is delicious. What are your thoughts on wine? The restaurant provided a complimentary bottle of wine."
"Just one glass. I don't want to drink today."
