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I smile at the sight, then ask, “Ready for what?”
Margot rolls her eyes. “Didn’t you see the email? We’re getting Halloween drinks. Let’s go!”
I saw the email. But I wasn’t planning on going because, one, I can’t drink, and two, I’m worried about anyone at the office figuring outwhy.
Kit convinced me to remain as his assistant for the time being, saying it would raise fewer questions if I left after a few months than a few weeks. That the last thing I needed right now was the stress of switching jobs again. That I wasn’t showing and there was no reason for anyone to suspect I was pregnant. That we could reassess after the holidays and decide what to do then.
So, I agreed to stay. Because he’d made valid points. And because … I like working for him. I like seeing him every day. I like hearing his deep voice in the background while I answer emails. I like that he brings me a sleeve of saltines every time he goes to the break room for a coffee refill.
“I have some work to finish up …”
Margot collapses on the side of my desk with an exasperated huff. “Collins! The mighty Mr. Kensington can wait until tomorrow. Everyone else is leaving on time tonight, so he can’t expect you to stay late. And we haven’t hung out inforever! Come on!”
She’s being dramatic. We had lunch together two days ago. But Icoulduse a fun night out. A brief distraction from reality. Lately, my life has followed a predictable pattern of work and home. Stress and sleepless nights. Naps and nausea.
“Okay,” I agree. “Just give me a few minutes to finish things up.”
Margot claps and straightens. “Meet us by the elevators.”
I nod as I type. “Be right there.”
From:[email protected]
To:[email protected]
Subject:No subject
I’m heading out. See you tomorrow.
—C
I can hear Kit’s voice. Know he’s on a conference call from his calendar, so I’m not expecting my inbox to ping with an immediate reply.
From:[email protected]
To:[email protected]
Subject:Re: No subject
Have a good night.
—Mighty Mr. Kensington
I snort a laugh before I shut off my computer and gather up my stuff.
I scan the new notifications on my phone as I walk to the elevator. There’s a photo from Jane—of her in a cute bunny costume posed with three other girls. I shoot her aHappy Halloween!text in response before moving on to the next message. My skin prickles unpleasantly as soon as I read it.
Sarah:Hey, Collins. I hope you’re doing okay. Wanted to let you know that Jeremy told me that Isaac is transferring to the firm’s New York office. Just a heads-up.
I chew my bottom lip and slow my steps, rereading the message twice before I send a reply.
Collins:Thanks for letting me know.
Collins:Hope you’re well too.
I blocked Isaac everywhere as soon as we broke up. I’m not sure he knows I moved to New York. If he does, he doesn’t know where I work or where I live. I doubt Isaac would even try to contact me.Hecheatedonme, and he wasn’t very careful about covering it up.
But still, the news is a damper on my cheerful mood.