Married To a Stranger

Chapter 15

When Matilda opened the door, Owen was relieved to see his grandmother's cheeks flushed and rosy. She looked healthier than she had in months.

All because of a good night's sleep. Come on in, you brat. The old lady chirped.

Owen's eyes then scanned the apartment. It was a cozy, two-bedroom, a mere 700 sq ft. But immaculately clean.

Four simple, nutritious dishes sat on the dining table, exactly the kind of wholesome meal ideal for an elderly person.

I can't wait for you to meet my darling granddaughter-in-law. Matilda clapped her wrinkled hands like an excited child.

Well, where is she? He shrugged lightly, right. Then he heard the sound of running water from the bathroom, which was just adjacent to the tiny living room.

He realized that Grandma's girl must be taking a shower. Through the frosted glass of the bathroom door, he could make out the slender silhouette of a woman.

Owen quickly looked away, a strange jolt running through him. He felt like he was trespassing, even though he was an invited guest.

He put a hand out and stopped the family physician from following him in. He then shifted his body, blocking the doctor's view of the bathroom.

Give me the kit. He said, you can wait in the car.

The physician nodded and left. Without a word, Owen quickly moved to the couch and checked Matilda's vitals. Maybe it was because she'd slept so well, but all her readings were surprisingly good.

The old woman beamed. My granddaughter-in-law is taking such good care of me.

Seeing was believing. Owen finally let himself relax. He glanced toward the bathroom again, unsure of whether to stay or go.

This seemed too intimate. On instinct, he started packing up his medical kit. Since you're fine, I should get going.

Matilda looked surprised, aren't you staying for dinner? My granddaughter-in-law is an amazing cook.

It's not a good time, Grandma, Owen replied. His cheeks coloring as the sound of running water echoed in the small apartment.

He set the kit on the table. I'm leaving these here.

Matilda's eyes darted between him and the bathroom.

No, you take it. I want you to come check on me every day.

If her grandson came by every day, he'd have to see his wife, right? They could get to know each other, figure things out, and finally be a real couple.

She could already picture herself holding her great-grandchild.

Just as Owen opened his mouth to argue, the shower shut off.

He shot to his feet, grabbed the medical kit, and made a break for the door. See you later, Grandma.

Come back tomorrow. Matilda called after him.

The moment the front door clicked shut, the bathroom door opened. But it wasn't the steamy, tempting scene Owen had pictured.

Ruby emerged, fully dressed, a towel drying her hair.

Oh, where's your grandson? She asked.

He left. Said it wasn't a good time.

Matilda sighed. He's just so guarded, always putting on that tough-guy act. Is that why you don't like him, dear?

He can change, you know.

Ruby sighed and shook her head. I'm not your granddaughter-in-law. I don't even know the guy. She reminded gently.

Knowing she had to be patient with the old lady.

Yes, you are. Matilda insisted.

Ruby felt a wave of helplessness.

After two days together, she'd found the old woman to be incredibly sweet and agreeable about almost everything.

But on this one point, she was as stubborn as a mule.

After Matilda went to bed, Ruby dutifully sent a video to her grandson.

He replied almost instantly.

Grandma looks great. Thank you.

Ruby typed back. You're welcome. Why did you leave, though? I thought you'd stay for dinner.

Sorry, something came up. Next time.

How's it going with that guy who was bothering you? Need any help with that? He replied.

Ruby realized he was talking about the story she had posted earlier. A small smile touched her lips.

It was nice. He cared enough to ask.

His response was rather positive.

Oh, I'll figure it out. I always do.

Inside his luxury RV, Owen saw her reply, and the hard lines of his face softened.

This girl has no idea who I really am. He thought. She just took in my runaway grandmother.

.