I’m jittery all day, not quite able to focus on my work. The authorities contact me. Apparently, Samuel’s been apprehended, and I’ll need to go to the station.
I’m relieved to know he’s not on the streets, free to break into my place again. This has really shaken me, more than I could have possibly imagined.
Weston takes me to the station and we’re there for hours, giving another statement. He’s extremely patient and helpful, and I’m very thankful.
Samuel is charged with breaking and entering and assault. And a restraining order has been filed. Yet, I still feel unsettled.
When I finally get home, I find Abigail stretched across my sofa. Ethan is already sleeping soundly.
“How did it go?” I ask.
“Oh, great. Ethan’s a little angel. How did it go at the station?”
“It was long and tiring, but Samuel will get what he deserves.”
She rises from the sofa. “He should.” She gives me a nice hug. “You’ll get through this. You’re safe now.”
“Thank you, Abby. And thanks for looking after Ethan.”
“My pleasure. Always.”
I toss and turn all night, and I sleep through my alarm again. It only happens when I don’t get enough sleep. I scramble to get Ethan and I ready. Today is a daycare day. I prefer the days when he stays home with his grandma because I don’t have to do much. But it’s important for him to be socialized, and to learn. His daycare is highly focused on educational activities. Patricia is a wonderful grandmother, but she can only offer so much. Plus I wouldn’t dare impose on her too much. She sits three times a week, and I think that’s plenty for a woman her age.
As we exit the elevator, I notice a tall dark man in uniform standing by the entrance. He must be about six foot six. He smiles at the both of us, and we smile back. He seems friendly enough, but he’s the kind of guy you wouldn’t want to mess with. It takes me a few seconds to realize that he’s a security guard.
The building has never had a security guard, just the typical security lock system, the kind of system people bypass all the time. I wonder how many people have sneaked in behind residents walking in.
I apologize to Rosetta as soon as I get in. “I tossed and turned all night,” I explain. “And slept through my alarm again.”
“No worries, Honey,” she says. “After what happened to you, poor baby, I’m surprised you’re even here.”
“It’s the best place to be,” I explain. “I feel safer here.”
She smiles. “Yeah, no one is getting past me.”
I laugh, and fire up my laptop. I check my email first like I always do.
There’s a message from the Orchard Heights Home Association. It states that all loft locking systems will be updated in the next few weeks.
I raise a brow, intrigued. We’ve always had plain old fashioned locks. And apparently, we will be upgraded to a digital card system, like they have in most modern hotels. These are apparently more secure.
I suppose it will be easier. No more fiddling with a key. And I like the idea of being more protected. Although, I will miss the vintage door knobs.
This was Weston’s doing. He wants to keep me safe. And all his other tenants too.
I attempt to delve into my work, but I can’t focus. I grab a cup of coffee. I rearrange my desk. I check my phone. I check my email again.
My heart skips a beat when I see a message from Mr. Boss Man.
My sweet little grasshopper,
I had a dream about you last night. You were laying naked in my arms, and I held you. I protected you.
Now I can’t stop thinking about you naked in my arms. I can’t focus. I’m restless and frustrated. All I can think about is you.
I’d like you to go to my room, get completely undressed, wrap yourself in my fur throw, and lay on my bed and wait for me.
Yours,
Mr. Boss Man
Oh my… yes, please!
Dear Mr. Boss Man,
I’m leaving right this minute, and will do exactly as you ask. I’ll be waiting for you impatiently on your bed. ;)
Yours,
Grasshopper
I attempt to be inconspicuous as I leave the office. Rosetta is engrossed in her work and doesn’t seem to notice.
My heart beats with excitement as I scurry down the office. I pause and remove my pumps. I don’t want Rosetta to hear the click-clack of my heels.