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When I got out into the fresh air, I could breathe better. I was on my own, and through the glass door, I could see everything that was going on. If Levi needed me, I’d know.
I had a few blissful minutes alone before the door opened and the last person I expected walked out.
“Ava,” I said. “Still alone?”
Her eyes were devoid of any kindness. I didn’t have a doubt that she was back to make me feel even worse.
“Is your husband done with you again?”
“He has some business to talk about. He’s a CEO, after all.”
“I find that the right CEO always has time for those around them.” She flicked her hair over her shoulder. “Mine always makes time for me.”
“That’s great.”
“He’s so sweet. Attentive too. He sent me the biggest bouquet of flowers at work. What did Levi get for you again?”
“Books, mostly.”
“Oh, interesting.” She waved her hand. “Cute, if that’s your thing.”
“I think I see Calvin in there. Don’t you wanna go talk to him?” At her shrug, something in me snapped. “Unless he sent you out here for me.”
Ava rolled her eyes. “Obviously, he didn’t. You think he’s obsessed with you.”
“That she does. She always thinks everything has to do with her.”
That wasn’t the voice I wanted to hear. Chills broke out over my skin and I turned to see Calvin had joined us. He threw a casual arm around Ava and pulled her close.
“Hi, babe.” She smiled and pulled him into a frankly gross kiss that I had to look away from.
“What are you doing out here, Amy?” Calvin asked.
“Just wanted some air.”
“Or did you want to look at my empty yard? The pool would have been long open if you’d let me have my way.”
Oh,come on.Was he still on about this? “I’m sure you’ll find a way to get your pool. Stocks are up.”
Ava scoffed. “You do realize it’s the principle, right?”
“You do realize that your little boyfriend has money, right? I mean, look at this house. It’s so big it’s ridiculous. I got Gram’s old ‘shack,’ as you called it. There’s no reason for us to be fighting over this.”
His eyes narrowed. “You took what’s mine.”
“And you have everything else,” I snapped. “Let it go.”
“Like you let it go? You married Levi to get under my skin.”
“What?” I asked, voice high. “No, I didn’t.”
“You know what? That sounds like something she’d do,” Ava said, rolling her eyes.
“Just like he found you to make me jealous?” I said to her. “Do you really think he found you just because he missed you? He did it right when I got engaged.”
Ava stiffened. “You don’t know anything.”
“It’s just perfect timing.”