Chapter 17

After lunch, Gabriel offered to drive Elodie back to her office. But she surprised him. ‘Actually,’ she said, ‘I’m headed the other way. There’s a new house I wanted to check out.’ Gabriel’s brows furrowed. ‘Are you moving out?’ She nodded. ‘It’s time. I found the keys to a place Mom and Dad left me. Great neighbourhood, closer to work. I’m ready to start my own life there.’ ‘You’re always welcome at my place, El,’ he said, his voice softer than usual. ‘You know that.’ ‘I do, Gabe. But you’re getting older, and I don’t want to be the awkward third wheel when you bring home the lady friends.’ Gabriel felt his face heat up. ‘What ladies?’ Elodie’s smile turned into a knowing smirk. ‘Don’t think I didn’t see the lipstick smudge on your collar last night, Casanova.’ He buried his face in his hands, groaning. ‘Oh, that,’ he mumbled. ‘Just a... friend.’ ‘Uh-huh,’ she teased. ‘A “friend” with a generous application of lip gloss.’ He shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. ‘You’re r