Chapter Thirty-Five
Nicki opened her refrigerator and assessed the contents.
It wasn’t pretty. Olivia had driven her home and checked her whole apartment before leaving.
With Dylan in jail, Nicki felt safe again, though she appreciated her aunt’s thoroughness.
But she hadn’t thought to ask her to stop at the supermarket.
She grabbed a grocery bag and headed for the door.
A walk to the local store would do her good.
The sky was cold and bright, a true northeastern autumn day as she strolled two blocks to Brown’s Market and grabbed fruit, milk, and a box of Frosted Flakes.
She’d enjoyed staying with Aunt Liv, but it was nice to be on her own again.
As much as she loved her family, she needed alone time to recharge.
She detoured to the café for a Frappuccino and a breakfast sandwich.
Joining the line, she eyed the guy in front of her.
He was a little older than her, with short dark-brown hair and eyes the color of milk chocolate.
He stepped up to the counter and ordered a breakfast sandwich and coffee. The sound of his voice gave Nicki goose bumps. Her ears buzzed, and her vision swam. In her head she heard him say her name. I need you to open your eyes.
“Are you OK?” He’d turned to face her.
His words brought her back. She blinked. Her eyes focused. “Yeah, I’m fine. Thanks.” Stepping out of line, she scanned his face. “I know you.”
“You do.” His smile made her toes curl. “Let me buy you brunch.”