obviously something missing in your life. I just thought … you know … since you may be lonely in that room all by yourself, you may need some company. It’s not the same, but they help during the hard times. Believe me.”
As I watch it buzzing in my hand, I snort out a laugh. “Well, thank you—I think. I’m on my period at the moment, so that would be a bit messy.”
Her eyes widen slightly. “You know, funnily enough, so am I, but I have condoms. There are plenty in the nightstand if you need any for that big fella—or any live beating ones, if that’s what you prefer.” She wriggles her eyebrows at me. “You can’t beat the live beating ones.” We both giggle at that, but then she glances away, like she’s off in her own little world—a world I do not wish for her to go to in my presence.
“Well I appreciate the gift, Jessie.”
Snapping herself out of it, she rubs my shoulder and gets up from the sofa. “I’m just going to hop in the shower and get ready. You need anything? Are you good?”
After Jessie’s present, I suddenly am. It’s not the actual gift that improved my mood, it’s the thought behind it. It’s classic Jessie, and I love her for it.
“I’m actually very good. I’ve got a great friend and another taking me to the movies later. Can’t get much better than that.” I smile, but there is still a hint of sadness in me I can’t hide.
“Well, I’ll hit the shower then. Oh, and don’t forget your pasta.”
She walks off, leaving me on my own, so I head towards the kitchen to complete the task of cooking my meal. I spy the present Mum brought round on the side, and I quickly pick it up and put it exactly where it belongs.
In the bin.
Once the door to the bin closes with a satisfying clunk, I make my way over to the kitchen cupboards to look for some sauce. When found, I pop it in the microwave and drain the pasta.
All is ready in no time, so I saunter into the living room and sit at the dining table. Jessie comes out with a towel wrapped around her head and she inhales deeply.
“God, that smells good. I’m really hungry already.”
I pull my fork up to her. “You want some?”
She shakes her head. “Nah, I’ve just brushed my teeth. Besides, I want to keep my hunger ready for Jerry later. In every sense of the word,” she drawls in a husky voice.
I roll my eyes at her.
“Don’t be jealous. You have Mr. Brator to help you out later.” Initially, the name doesn’t register as I look up to her with a frown. “You know, first name, Vi.” She giggles as she makes her way back to her room while she’s shaking her head, leaving me to do the same.
7
I get myself ready for Michael, deciding to put on a simple tank top and jeans. I grab the earrings that Matthew bought for me and put them on, admiring the way they twinkle in the light. Once I pull out a cardigan I can wear for when it gets chilly, I make my way back to the living room. Jessie’s still in her room when the doorbell chimes.
“Ana, can you get that? It should be Jerry.”
I shout back, “okay,” and make my way to the door. I look through the peephole and see who must be Jerry.
“Hi, you’re Ana I take it?”
I nod my head and shake his hand. He has a nice black suit on with a blue tie. His hair is black and slicked back with perfectly aligned sideburns. My, he does look like Tom Cruise.
“I’ve heard so much about you. I’m glad we’re finally meeting,” I tell him as we make our way into the living room.
Unfortunately we never got round to meeting before. He was always so busy at work—or Jake and I couldn’t make it out for one reason or another—so it never happened.
“Me too,” Jerry answers. “You and Jessie seem very close friends, and I know she is very fond of you.”
“As I am of her,” I smile. “She’s been my rock.” He grins back, happy with my answer, and I gesture for him to make himself comfortable.
“Jessie’s just in her room getting ready. She’ll be out in a minute. Do you want me to get you a drink of anything while you wait?”