Rocco’s puzzled voice snapped me out of my frenzy.
“Valerie?”
His gaze fell on my water-soaked, pale hands, and he rushed to my side with visible concern.
“Why are you washing your hands with cold water? Your period starts tomorrow. What if your stomach hurts? Do you want me to worry myself sick over you?”
I pulled my hands back; my voice was as flat as the air between us.
“My phone slipped into the toilet. I couldn’t save it.”
Without hesitation, Rocco hurried to prepare a hot water bottle, his movements quick yet tender. He returned with a basin of warm water steeped in ginger slices. Squatting before me, he gently took my feet in his hands, his tone laced with indulgent helplessness.
“If it’s dropped, so be it. It’s just an old, dirty phone. Is it really worth you fishing it out? I’ll buy you a new one tomorrow, the best money you can get.”
“Oh, and tomorrow is your big sister’s baby’s one-month celebration. Mom wants us to join them for dinner.”
His gentle and caring demeanor felt like a cruel irony. My thoughts screamed questions I didn’t dare voice aloud.
What about you?
You’re tainted. Should I still want you?