Page 96 of Kiss Marry Kill

“It’s not just good. It’s perfect.” I sighed.

“I’m happy for you, Max. Really happy.”

I beamed. “I mean, this place is unbelievable, Royce. It’s everything I wanted. I’m so worried something will go wrong because it’s almost too good to be true.”

“Where is it?”

I said softly, “It’s where Johnson’s Dentistry is located.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I’ve been there. Dr. Johnson is great. I didn’t realize he was selling.”

“It’s not officially on the market yet, but Mrs. Numi is friends with Dr. Johnson.”

“It pays to know people.”

“Definitely. I couldn’t believe it when I walked inside that building. It felt like home immediately.”

Royce laughed. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this excited about anything.”

I slumped. “This thing with River has been eating at me for so long. I felt trapped. Like I had to keep interacting with him, simply because he had power over me. I really can’t stand him. I want literally nothing to do with him.”

“I don’t blame you.”

“If Dr. Johnson accepts my offer, and Mrs. Numi insists he will, I’ll buy out my lease with River. I won’t have to do too much to turn that place into exactly what I need. I should be able to be back in business in about a month and a half at most. That is, if all goes well with the city permits and build-out.”

“That’s fantastic.” He squeezed my arm. “I’m thrilled for you.”

“Thanks.” I grinned. “And guess what the best part is?”

“What?” He smiled indulgently.

“It has a pool,” I squeaked. “Can you believe it?”

His smile faltered. “Does it?”

“Yes.” I laughed. “That really sealed the deal, if I’m honest. The bedroom upstairs is bigger than what I had before, and there’s even a bonus room where I can put a TV. The other place had nowhere for me to entertain anyone, but now that won’t be a problem.”

Royce’s expression was a bit stiff. “So, then, you’re going to live there too?”

“Right. It’s a mixed-use building, just like my other spot.” I studied him, wondering why he looked tense. “You’ll finally have your place back to yourself.”

“And you’ll get your space.”

There was definitely something off about him all of a sudden. He’d seemed thrilled for me at first, but now he looked almost… disappointed? “You’ve been very kind in giving me a place to stay. I really don’t know how to ever repay you.”

“Not necessary.” He avoided my gaze. “I’ve enjoyed having you there.”

I hated that he seemed withdrawn now. I felt driven to try and connect with him. “We… we can have movie nights in that bonus room. Won’t that be fun?”

“Sure.” His smile was strained. “Sounds great.”

“You can bring Grumpy too.” I touched his arm. “He hates being left out.”

“Absolutely. He’ll love it.” He reached for the check when Jeanette set it on the edge of the table. “When will you know if you got the place?”

“Dr. Johnson had forty-eight hours to decide. I’m hoping to hear back soon. Mrs. Numi said she’d call me the minute she heard anything.” I dug my wallet out as I spoke.

He waved me off. “I’ve got it.”