The second he walked through the door, the interrogation began.
"Rose, why didn't you text me today?"
My face was blank. Unreadable.
"You must've been busy."
Leo opened his mouth, then closed it. He had nothing. Finally, he held out a shopping bag.
"Things are about to slow down soon. Rose, I brought you a gift. I know I haven't been around much lately."
Inside was a bottle of perfume. The floral scent hit me immediately, sharp and cloying.
I was allergic to floral fragrances.
I pushed the bag away.
"Rose, I picked this out especially for you. You don't like it?"
His brow creased, as though I were the one who'd done something hurtful.
"I'm allergic."
Something like realization flickered across his face. He pulled me into his arms.
"I'm sorry. I've been so swamped I forgot. Once this busy stretch is over, I'll make it up to you. I promise."
His clothes carried a different floral scent. Someone else's perfume, sharp against my nose.
"Mm."
I eased out of his embrace, turned, and headed for the bedroom.
"Rose Barnes." His voice hardened behind me. "So I forgot one thing, and you're going to give me attitude? I've been traveling for work—for us, for this home. What's your problem? Can you grow up? You think you're still that eighteen-year-old girl from seven years ago?"
I didn't respond.
Seven years ago, Leo wouldn't even let me walk past a flower shop. He'd cover my nose with his hand, terrified I'd breathe in the pollen.
Behind me, he snatched the perfume bag and hurled it into the trash.
"I spoil you too much. Take it or leave it."
The next day, a crowd of Leo's friends showed up at the apartment for dinner. Trailing behind them was Adela Swanson.
Leo's expression tightened. A flicker of nerves crossed his face.
"Hey, sis!" Adela extended her hand with a bright smile. "I'm Adela. Remember me?"
A custom diamond ring glittered on her finger. On mine sat a plastic band.
My gaze dropped to her swollen belly, round and unmistakable beneath her dress. My hand refused to move.
Leo grabbed Adela's outstretched hand before the silence stretched too long. "Rose has been exhausted lately. Don't take it personally."
At dinner, the air conditioning blew directly onto my back and Adela's.
Leo stood up immediately and switched seats with Adela, shielding her from the cold air.