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I quickly look away and nod. “Of course. Come on, Roxana,” I say, leading my cleaner out by her shoulders.

Once the door closes behind us, Roxana smacks me on the chest and shoulder, repeatedly. I wince at the shoulder pain but take it. I deserve that.

“Why would you not tell me you have a girlfriend?” she asks in her thick accent.

I shush her and gesture for her to move away from the door. “She’s just a friend,” I say, scowling.

“But you want more?” she asks, tilting her head up staring at me.

“Why is everyone suddenly interested in my love life?” I scoff, running a palm over my scruff.

“Maybe because it’s been a while, eh?” She winks.

I groan and turn to head upstairs. “You’re incorrigible.”

“I don’t know what that means,” Roxana yells after me.

I turn back around with a smile. “Take the week off. I’ve been keeping up with the cleaning.”

“Don’t have to tell me twice.”

When I return to my room, my phone is vibrating on the nightstand. It’s a text from Hazel.

Hazel

I think I’ll take you up on the offer and move into the guest house.

My heart sinks and I slowly sit on the floor. Do I attempt to change her mind? I only want what’s best for her. But maybe this is it.

Levi

What about Gus? He’ll miss you.

I’ll miss you. Even though she’s not going very far.

Hazel

I really don’t want any more surprises.

Levi

I’m so sorry. There’s no excuse. I forgot to tell you some key details and I didn’t consider how they might affect you. I promise it won’t happen again.

Hazel

Thank you for the apology.

I bite my lip, watching the three dots appear and disappear.

Hazel

I’ll stay then. For Gus.

Levi

Gus is very happy to hear that.

“How long have you had the shoulder pain?” my physiotherapist asks me the day before we travel to New York.