Page 59 of The Seashell of ’Ohana

One thing about Stella—she held nothing back and always said what she was thinking.

“Oh,” I said. “So you two are …”

Stella crossed her arms on the desk. “We’re taking it slow. I don’t want to rush into anything, and neither does he. So, first zip-lining and now horseback riding. You wild thing. What has become of you?”

“I know, right?” I snorted. “I’m such a party girl.”

Kate stayed behind to chat with Stella while I went back to work. I’d thought Liam would ask questions, but he kept to himself and focused on the painting in front of him. Just before I picked up a paintbrush, I texted Ian.

Abby: Thank you for the beautiful flowers. You didn’t have to do that.

I was going to put the phone down, but a text pinged.

Ian: I had to do something to bribe you to hold my hand during horseback riding.

I smiled and swiped my fingers fast over the letters.

Abby: No need to bribe. That’s what friends do.

Ian: Then Lee is a terrible friend. He won’t hold my hand.

A small snicker squeaked out of me, and Liam turned to look. I sent a laughing emoji, and he sent me a heart one back.

I stared at the red beating heart a bit longer than necessary.

Chapter Twenty-Three — Horseback

Riding

The remaining week went by in a flash with roughly the same routine every day. Take Tyler to school. Go to work. Come home. Today would be different. Tyler woke up early, so I didn’t go for my run.

“When is Ian coming?” Tyler asked, sitting on the sofa and looking out the window.

“Very soon, sweetheart. He said he was on his way.” I wiped a wet dish with a towel and placed it inside the cabinet.

Outside, a car door slammed, and Tyler jumped up. His footsteps pounded across the floor, and the door creaked open. I grabbed a backpack, did a quick glance around the house to make sure all the windows were closed, and walked out. Tyler was already in the back seat.

Ian gave me a peck on the cheek and opened the door for me. As he backed out of the driveway, he asked Tyler about school and his friends.

“I’m glad you like school.” Ian looked in the rearview mirror at my son. “You know, Lee was my best friend when we were your age.”

“I know,” Tyler said matter-of-factly. “Lee told me. He told me some funny stories.”

I craned my neck to get a better look at my son. His lips were parted from laughing, and he looked so happy. Seeing him like this reassured me I was doing okay as his mother. God knows I tried my best, but happiness is hard to deliver.

“Anything new at school, Ty?” Ian asked. “Girlfriend I should know about?”

“No.” Tyler laughed nervously.

I wasn’t sure if that was truly a no, or if he was too shy to admit it.

“Well …” Tyler crossed his arms. “Something is happening at school next month, but I can’t go.”

I stiffened, anticipating what was coming next. I should have told Tyler not to say anything.

“Why not?” Ian met my gaze momentarily, concern flashing in those gorgeous eyes.

“It’s father and son miniature golf night, and I don’t have a dad.” His voice lowered to a mumble as he stared at his shoes.