Because he hadn't heard from me all day, Leo came home that night.
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.