Page 109 of The House Guest

Benjamin refilled my water before returning to his spot on the sofa. “How about this?” he said. “You relax tonight. You’re very worked up, which is completely understandable. I’ll make us something to eat. Then you try to get some sleep. Tomorrow, when you have a fresh mind, we’ll decide what your next step should be. But I don’t think it’s wise to leave just yet. You’ve made plans to be here for a week. You should take advantage of what I’m sure is a much-needed break, if nothing else.”

I took a moment to think. I’d prepared my daughter for my absence. Coming home now would only confuse her. This time away was a rare gift, and Ididneed to take advantage of it, even if just to clear my head in private.

“You’re right,” I said. “I don’t think I can go back without at least letting him know I came here. I’d regret it forever.”

He nodded. “So now we have a plan. You’ll sort your head out tonight and face him tomorrow.”

Adrenaline pumped through me. “What if she’s still here?”

“I’ll figure something out, even if I have to ask to speak with him privately to get him over here alone.”

“That makes sense.” I inhaled a calming breath and let it go. “Thank you so much for your help.”

“Liv is a nice girl, Primrose. But make no mistake, I’m onyourside. I will always be rooting for you.”

I felt tears behind my eyes. “The fact that you’re here with me right now is a blessing.”

“Very well, then.” He stood. “Now that you’re properly hydrated, whatelsecan I get you to drink?”

“Something strong.” I chuckled.

“I’ve got just the thing. Coming right up.”

He bustled in the kitchen and brought me over a shot glass of what smelled like tequila. I downed it.

Benjamin laughed. “How about another?”

“No.” I held out my palms. “This should do it. I just needed something to help me relax a bit.”

“I’ve ordered us some takeout—the fried chicken you used to like from the restaurant on the boardwalk.”

My stomach growled. “Thank you so much. I haven’t eaten since this morning.”

He brought over a glass of wine for himself and kicked his feet up. “How’s that beautiful little girl of yours?”

“She’s truly wonderful. This is the first time I’ve left her.”

“I think it’s good for kids to learn how to adapt to different situations. It will be helpful for her in the long term to experience time away from you.”

“Thank you for trying to make me feel better, Benjamin.”

He smiled. “You and I have a long history. We’ve been through some difficult circumstances together. Just as I look at Dorian like a son, I care for you like I would my own daughter.”

This time, when I felt the urge to cry, I let go and my tears spilled over. “As someone who has no living parents, that means a lot.”

He smiled and stood. “While we’re waiting for the food to arrive, I’m going to go set up the guest room for you.”

“Thank you again, Benjamin.”

Alone in the living room, I thought about how different this moment felt from what I’d imagined it could be. Instead of running into Dorian’s open arms, I’d seen another woman in his arms instead. Instead of sleeping next to him in the mansion, I’d be tossing and turning all night in the guest house as I pondered whether staying was a colossal mistake.

***

The following morning, Benjamin offered to go out and get coffee for me. He didn’t stock any here at the guest house since he only drank tea. Given the headache I was currently experiencing, I wasn’t going to argue with him. No way could I handle facing Dorian today without my morning caffeine. So Benjamin left, and I used the opportunity to call home and check on my daughter.

Casey’s mother answered. “Hi, Primrose. You have someone here very anxious to talk to you.”

“Thanks, Karen. Put her on.”