In the kitchen

The first thing Derick needed to do was back Rose and her ‘friend’ into a corner. Something they couldn’t avoid or get out of. He replayed the surveillance footage and heard Rose mention her nail appointment. He knew his wife went excessively to the salon owned by his sister Emma.

Hatching a quick plan, Derick headed out of his office and made his way to his car. After a short drive home, he quietly let himself in and made his way to the kitchen where he knew his wife was sitting with her friend.

“Hey babe, I’m home!” He casually commented as he walked in the kitchen.

Rose jumped slightly as Derick suddenly appeared. “What a surprise hun!” She replied.

“Yeah, it was a little slow this morning so I thought I’d pop home for a little quality time, but I see you have company.” He turned to John. “And who is this lovely woman?”

“That’s my old high school friend, Johnni”, Rose responded, quickly feminizing John’s name. “I invited her over for coffee this morning so we could catch up.”

“That’s nice. Is she also going with you to the salon? I know how you ladies love getting your nails done.”

“Oh, Johnni wanted to come with, but you know how expensive it can be, and I’m not sure they could even fit her in.”

“Nonsense,” replied Derick. “You know it’s my sister’s place, a quick phone call will sort this all out.”

As Derick grabbed his phone, John shot Rose a pleading look. Rose just shrugged her shoulders.

“Hey, Em, it’s Derick. Yes, I’m good. Listen, need a favor. Rose has an appointment this afternoon and was wondering if you could squeeze her friend in too. You can? Great! And put everything on our account. Yeah, it’ll mean the world to both of them.

Thanks. Bye.”

Derick hung up and smiled at his wife and her friend. “There you go, all set. And you’ll love it Johnni, they have qualified nannies there to watch your child while you get pampered!”

“Oh I couldn’t possibly,” John started to say before Rose chimed in.

“That’s very nice of you hun, but I’m sure Johnni has other things she needs to do.”

Derick shot her a look that spoke volumes.

“Nonsense,” Derick said, glaring at Rose. “It’s all set and I insist.”

Rose lowered her eyes. “Yes, dear.”

The exchange between to two of them was not unnoticed by John.

“Besides, I’m sure Johnni is excited to get her nails done,” Derick said as he switched his gaze from his wife to John. “After all, she’s a single mom who appreciates the help. Right?”

Feeling suddenly overwhelmed why Derick’s intense gaze. John also lowered his eyes. “Yes, thank you.”

“Fine, it’s settled then.