Page 288 of Safe With You

“Don’t make it weird.”

“I’m allowed to enjoy things.”

“Ellis.”

I smiled. Today, she wanted to hear my voice, so she called.

I didn’t point it out.

“What are you doing?” she asked.

“Working.”

“Still?”

“Some of us have jobs.”

“I own a business.”

“Allegedly.”

“See, this is why I don’t call you.”

I laughed. “You busy?”

“I’m at work.”

“That wasn’t my question.”

She was quiet for a second.

Then, “Are you busy tonight?”

“Not really. Mila’s staying with Tasha.”

“Oh.”

There was another pause.

“Come see me when you’re done.”

I stilled.

She hadn’t added if you want to this time.

“Come see me when you’re done” was all she’d said.

No if you’re not tired.

Just what she wanted.

“Okay.”

“Okay?”

“I’ll come see you.”

Her voice softened. “Okay.”