I wanted to apologize, understanding that his busy schedule with the company’s growth meant late nights and networking.
"I made you some soup to help sober up," I retorted.
But before I could add, a sweet, flirtatious voice interrupted the other line, saying, "Darius, I want you to feed me."
My heart tightened with pain. I recognized the voice. It was none other than Althea Smith.
"Darius, come back right now!" I demanded; I didn't want him to spend another minute with the girl he was with.
In my heart, I could feel something was wrong. And I just couldn't have an assurance.
He replied, “Althea said I should feed the dog. Don’t overthink it about her again, okay?”
"Althea’s chest hurts again and even after taking her medication, she’s refusing to sleep,” he said, then focused back on me. “I’ll come back after I get her to bed. You don’t need to wait for me."
I dug my nails into my palm, trying to hold back the sob rising in my throat.
“Darius, if you don’t come back by midnight, I’ll die,” I pleaded.
“If you’re trying to pressure me with excuses, Vera, it’s not going to work,” Darius replied, his voice edged with impatience.