Chapter 154

When he leaves the room, it’s as if a storm has passed overhead to wreak havoc elsewhere, in the hallway, perhaps. Danica breathes a sigh of relief, grateful that he’s gone. She hears him on the phone, his voice deep but melodious. She doesn’t think she’s ever been so acutely aware of someone else before. She must stop thinking about him and concentrate on cleaning! She finishes dusting the piano, though she can’t shake the uncanny feeling that he’d been watching her while she cleaned. No. That’s impossible. Why would he be watching me? Maybe he’s checking on her cleaning capabilities like Ximena. Danica smiles at the silly idea and realizes she feels a great deal warmer than she did when she arrived. She isn’t sure if the heat is within the room or within herself. Warmed by his presence. Her ludicrous train of thought elicits another smile. As he’s out of the room, she seizes the opportunity to run and fetch the vacuum cleaner. The Boss is at the end of the hall leaning against the wa