A surprise visit

Chapter 15

Annette

The past few days had been slow and peaceful, and as I let myself rest—truly rest—I came to a surprising realization. I had needed the break far more than I thought. Resting hadn’t been the end of the world like I once feared; in fact, it was a small gift I hadn't known I deserved. Once my energy returned and my body no longer felt so heavy, I picked up my work routine again, more refreshed than before.

Earlier today, after finishing up the cleaning job at one of my client’s homes, I decided to head to the grocery store. Something about the fresh air, the crispness of the day, maybe even the faint buzz of approaching holidays—it filled me with a kind of lightness. My steps were quicker, my posture stronger. I felt good. Alive. Energized.

I moved through the store with a little spring in my step, tossing everything I needed into my basket with ease. It felt almost therapeutic. As I made my way toward the cashier, ready to check out and head home, I spotted two people I had prayed not to see today—or any day, really.

“Annette,” Diane’s voice rang out, sweet and syrupy, laced with satisfaction. She had that smile plastered on her face, the kind that only existed to show off. She clung to Rodney’s arm, and my stomach twisted involuntarily.

For a moment, I wished I hadn't looked. But my eyes were already drawn to her left hand, to the shiny rock sitting proudly on her finger. An engagement ring. Of course. That explained the smugness in her tone.

“No wonder,” I thought to myself with a quiet breath. She had the prize. The man she stole. And now she wanted me to see.

“Diane, how are you?” I replied smoothly, matching her smile with one of my own, keeping my tone light and pleasant. If she wanted to provoke something out of me, she was going to be disappointed. They were my past—both of them. And I had learned that once I closed the door on something, it no longer had power over me.

Her smile faltered, just for a heartbeat, before she hastily put it back on like a mask. “Oh, I wanted to invite you to my wedding,” she said, tilting her head slightly, the ring glittering under the store’s lights.

Rodney, standing beside her, looked uncomfortable. His eyes didn’t quite meet mine, his expression dipped in guilt.

“Oh really? That’s good news. Congratulations,” I replied with effortless grace.

Rodney’s eyes widened at my response, like he had expected something else—perhaps tears, perhaps a breakdown. But I wasn’t that woman anymore. The cashier handed me my packed groceries.

“Here, Miss Anne,” she said kindly.

I turned and offered her a thankful smile. “Thank you so much.”

Then I looked back at the happy couple, giving them one last polite nod. “Oh, and I wish you a happy married life,” I added, before turning away and walking out of the store.

Once outside, I took a long breath, letting the cold air soothe the faint pounding in my head. I hailed a cab and climbed in, settling into the seat when a knock startled me. I turned toward the sound.

It was Rodney.

He was standing at the window, gesturing for me to lower the glass. Reluctantly, I did.

“Yes? How may I help you?” I asked coolly, keeping my face unreadable.

“Anne, we need to talk.”

The audacity.

“It’s Annette to you, Dr. Rodney,” I corrected, voice clipped. “And there’s absolutely nothing for us to talk about.”

He didn’t back down. “Look, I know you're upset—even if you’re not showing it—”

I raised a hand to cut him off. “You are not worth me being upset over, Rodney. Don't flatter yourself thinking you still know me. You don’t.”

He gave a short, bitter laugh, nodding like he was preparing to say something else—something cruel—but he didn’t get the chance.

My phone buzzed in my hand.

Cole.

As soon as I saw his name, I felt warmth rush to my face. Lately, it had been happening a lot—these strange little flutters whenever he called. But right now, I needed to deal with the pest in front of me first.

Rodney’s expression darkened. “Was it that guy? Your childhood friend who—”

I rolled the window back up before he could finish.

“Drive,” I instructed the driver, my tone firm.

And that was how we left Rodney—speechless, fuming, and in the past where he belonged.

I exhaled slowly, letting my heart settle, before answering my phone. “Took you so long,” Cole’s voice came through, low and smooth. Just hearing him made me smile, even though I tried not to.

“Are you busy?” he asked.

I shook my head slightly, trying to shake off the lingering tension from before. “Not really. I was shopping.”

He paused for a beat before asking, “For yourself?”

“No,” I replied. “It’s groceries. And what do you mean by ‘for yourself’?” My tone sharpened slightly. Was he teasing or being critical?

“Well,” he said, almost too casually, “the way you said it sounded like you went to shop for yourself. Or did someone somewhere tell you not to?”

What was he trying to imply?

“No,” I answered shortly, irritation starting to build.

“Ah. When will you get home?” he asked, changing the subject, thankfully.

“Soon. I’m on my way.”

“Good.” And with that, he ended the call.

I sighed again. Was it just me, or was everyone particularly annoying today? Maybe it was the weight of everything—life, responsibilities, expectations. I had never really learned to put myself first. I couldn’t afford to. There were always obligations—always something that had to be done.

I pressed a hand to my forehead as a dull ache started to throb. The snow was falling harder now, thick flakes blanketing the streets. Christmas was clearly on its way. The thought reminded me—we needed to start decorating the house. Most of the neighborhood already had. I missed my brother more than ever during times like this. I’d have to call him soon. If they came over for the holidays, the house would finally feel warm again, loud and full of life. I couldn’t wait to see my nephew again. Children—God, how I loved them.

When I got home, I saw the sleek black car parked out front and didn’t need to guess whose it was.

Cole.

He stepped out just as I did. He was dressed sharply, as always—tailored suit, a black leather coat that fit him perfectly. Snow dusted his dark hair, adding to the effortless allure he seemed to carry around like a second skin.

I couldn’t believe someone like him was my friend. Everything about him whispered luxury, wealth, elegance—things I had never felt comfortable around. And yet, here he was, a constant in my life now.

He walked toward me with purpose, his eyes locked on mine. My heart kicked up in response. When he reached me, he gently took the grocery bags from my hand. His nearness sent a jolt through me. I had this sudden, almost overwhelming urge to hug him. Or worse—kiss him.

What was wrong with me?

I quickly turned away, fumbling to pay the cab driver.

“You sounded upset on the phone,” Cole said softly. “Did I really upset you?”

I looked up at him, straight into those unreadable grey eyes that always seemed to sparkle with just a hint of mischief.

“I don’t really have time to argue,” I murmured.

“Create it then,” he replied, his voice low and teasing.

I didn’t like the atmosphere suddenly surrounding us. It was warm, charged—dangerous. It was making me feel things I’d sworn I wouldn’t allow myself to feel. And God help me…

I was beginning to like it.