I let out an exasperated laugh. “That’s a load of bullcrap and you know it. Honesty’s never been your strong suit, Elena. Or have you already forgotten about all the lies and deceit that destroyed our marriage?”
She goes still, then rolls her eyes. “Back to that again. Why can’t you just let that go? That was a long time ago.”
“Really?” I quip, taking a step closer to her. “Are you telling me you’ve stopped fucking around with all those guys barely out of high school? Because from what I remember, I know how much you loved those young ones?”
My dear ex-wife has always had a kink for younger men. At thirty-six, she’s only two years older than me, but even my ageseemed too old by her standards. I suppose that’s why she was quick to trade me in for a much younger model.
She gulps, her skin paling slightly. “I haven’t messed around with anyone that young since Ben.”
I wince at the mention of her ex-lover’s name, just one of the many in the rotation of fuckboys Elena kept while still married to me. “Look, I don’t give a shit what you get up to or who you’re fucking. Just stay out of my business and I’ll stay out of yours. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got better shit to do than to discuss my private life with you.”
I don’t give her a chance to respond as I turn on my heel and jump into my Ranger. A minute later, I’m peeling out of her driveway and onto the road. I grip the steering wheel tightly, fuming, hating that I let my ex-wife get under my skin.
This is why I avoid her at all costs. Even after all this time, after everything she did— to me, to our marriage, to our family—she still plays these little mind games. Making me feel likeI’malways in the wrong, likeI’mthe reckless parent. I hate it, and I hate that she still has this effect on me.
I need a distraction before I lose my shit completely.I need Mila. She’s always been a calming presence, the one who can soothe the raging storm inside me.
As soon as I arrive home, I head straight to the deck and sit by the pool, not caring that I’m freezing my balls off from the end-of-June winter chill. I pull out my phone from the pocket of my jeans and text Mila.
Me:The house is too quiet without you and Jake. I miss you.
Five minutes later, my phone pings with a new message.
Mila:I was just thinking about you guys. I miss you too.
Me:Hey, I know you only just moved back home, but I was just wondering if you’re not doing anything tonight, do you want to come over and chill at my place? Order some takeaway and watch a movie, like old times?
Mila:I already have plans tonight with Sof. She’s taking me out to dinner.
Not the response I was hoping for. But it was worth the try.
Me:Oh, okay. Thought I’d ask anyway.
Mila:I’m free tomorrow night.
YES!
Me:Okay, perfect! Wanna drop by at 6?
Mila:I’ll see you then, Mr Hawkins!
Me:Looking forward to your company, Miss Rivera x
And just like that, this old man just scored himself a hot new date tomorrow night.
CHAPTER 28
Mila
Two things greet me as I walk through the front door of Jason’s house—Jarryd James’Give me something,playing softly through the speakers, and the mouth-watering scent of chicken carbonara wafting through the air. If you ask me, I’d say tonight’s already off to a great start.
When Jason texted to invite me over for dinner and a movie, just the two of us, I’ll admit I hesitated for a moment. The idea felt a little too… intimate. We’ve never done anything like this before, not unless I was babysitting Jake or staying with them after the incident. Back then, it felt casual, like two friends just hanging out. But tonight… tonight feels different. Tonight feels more like a date.
I’m trying not to read too much into it, even though I can’t ignore the vibe I’ve been picking up from him lately, one that makes me wonder if there might be something more beneath the surface.
There are moments when I’d catch myself wondering if there was something more behind his sweet, caring gestures, his protectiveness, or the subtle ways he seemed to want me to stay a little longer. I know that’s just who Jason is, he’s always been kind and attentive, but a part of me can’t help but wonder. Still, whatever it might be, I’m walking into tonight with no expectations. We are merely two friends who’ve grown closer, just catching up. Nothing more.
I clutch a bottle of Prosecco in one hand and smooth down my black maxi dress with the other as I stroll through the hallway. I went for a casual look tonight, pairing it with brown bohemian-style sandals that show off my fresh berry-red pedicure. I’m not sure why I thought coming here without a jacket was a good idea in the first month of winter, but thankfully Jason has the heat blasting. The place feels warm and toasty.
