No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

On the ride back, I dialed Ernest's number.

This time, he picked up quickly. "Hello?"

"Where are you?" I cut straight to the chase.

There was a brief silence on the other end. Then he asked, "You're back?"

His few words choked me up. I had returned, but only because he pushed me to it.

"Yes, where are you? I need to see you," I said firmly, my tone laced with anger.

"Come home, I'll come to you," Ernest's response made me close my eyes in frustration.

The next second, I spelled it out, "Ernest, are you not getting my point? I said, I-want-to-see-you."

"I'm at home, and Susie's here too," Ernest replied, but his last few words made it clear he didn't want me there, not wanting Susie to witness any conflict between us. Not to mention Susie's fragile health, which couldn't handle any shocks, her being around just made it tough for me to chat with Ernest.

I didn't push further. "Fine, I'll wait at home."

Hanging up, I looked out the car window, watching the landscape flash by.

of the car, I

the lobby, I

much better than she did

premature baby must still be in

while still tangled up with Conrad." Clearly, she hadn't given up on Conrad, knowing his whereabouts and,

just for manipulation;

yourself a favor and keep your mouth shut," I warned her. She wisely chose not to say

elevator,

at her. Haley smiled. "Maybe

had

by using

Fanny Willis, and now to collaborate. I

figure out her angle.

WY

one thing was clear: she couldn't let go of

Yet she

time," I

with her leg. "Felicia, you'll come looking for me.

me, but I pressed

watched me until the