For the last few nights, I’ve been determined to have ‘normal’ time with Natalie. Drinks, dinner and sex. A lot of sex. Tonight, I’m picking her up and bringing her to my house.

I park at my usual spot at a lot two blocks away, tipping the attendant generously. I get a text from my father.

“Why the fuck is it so hard for you to do me this one goddamned favor?”

I roll my eyes. I know what he’s talking about and I’m going to have to talk to Eric. I realize he’s on my father’s payroll, but still.

I stop to text him back. “I’m a big boy. I can take care of myself.”

My phone rings a moment later.

“You make sure Eric drives you. I don’t like you out there on your own. We have enemies, Sergio. You fucking know this.”

“Fine. Christ.”

“Good. I’d hate to have to fire Eric. He’s got a family to feed.”

“I’ll make sure he earns his money. I have to go.”

“I mean it, Sergio.”

“Me too, dad.”

When I get to the tiny house, which I love but which I also know is something that is so not possible given who I am, I peek in the kitchen window. The lace curtains are open and I can see straight inside. I wonder if she realizes how much of her life is lived on display, with people always looking in. This is one of those things that gives me pause because I’m stealing that ease from her simply by showing up here, by inserting myself into her life. Because my enemies will become her enemies. And she doesn’t even have a clue.

Without knocking, I unlock the door and go inside. At least she’s good about keeping it locked.

“Nat?” I call out, walking through the kitchen, not bothering to take off my coat since we’ll be leaving.

“You know I don’t like anyone calling me that.” Her voice comes from upstairs.

I smile, but before I can reply, a hairdryer goes on. There’s a strange scent in the house today. It’s familiar but I can’t quite place it. It doesn’t fit here and it leaves me with an uncomfortable feeling.

Pepper’s lying on the floor beside the couch and her tail makes a thudding sound against the hardwood as she wags it when I approach. “Hey Pepper.” I pet her, and she lays her head back down. She looks tired and I wonder how much longer she’ll be around.

The blow dryer switches off and I hear heels click at the top of the stairs. “Hey, the bathroom window’s stuck. Can you see if you can open it for me?” Natalie asks.