Page 53 of Changing Lanes

Son of a bitch. I knew the motherfucker was an asshole, but to tell me he loves me while he’s with her? What in the hell is he thinking? I’m a damn fool for believing his shit.

Taking my steps at home two at a time, I sling my bag on the counter and grab the wine. I damn well need something stronger but this will have to do. Pouring myself a big glass, I draw a bath and sink in. My wild and crazy Friday nights.

I decide to take a couple of days off, I think spending some time on the beach is what I need. Besides, everything is running smoothly on the build. I call Thayer, asking her if she and Lea would go shopping with me. I need a place where I can purchase a swimsuit or two. We make plans to meet the next day.

I meet Thayer and Lea at a local shop around one on Saturday. I try on several suits but nothing looks right. Lea and Thayer shove me back in the room and start handing over suit after suit until a bikini flies over the door. With hesitation and encouragement, I try it on. Stepping out to do a quick turn for them.

“Gorgeous. Buy. Now, try this one,” they exclaim, pushing me back through the door.

“I’m not so sure about these, I think I’m too old.” Rolling my eyes at the swimsuit I just stepped into.

“How old are you?” Thayer asks as I adjust my top.

“Thirty,” I say with a little more confidence when I look in the mirror. Stepping out, I’m met with catcalls and whistling.

“Love it. Buy,” Lea exclaims.

I stand in front of the mirror, twisting and turning to get a good look at myself. Just then, I notice a little girl watching me, smiling.

She’s a doll. Wavy chestnut hair and beautiful eyes, I return her smile. To my surprise, she walks closer. Waving at Lea and Thayer, she steps on the stage where I’m standing in the mirror. She sways back and forth, appraising me.

“You’re pretty. I like your smile,” she says as she watches me.

“Thank you. I was just thinking the same thing about you.” She smiles wider. Kneeling beside her, I introduce myself as I hold my hand out to her. “Hi, I’m Torrie. What’s your name?”

“I’m Andi, with an ‘I’. I like your name.” She takes my hand, giving it a little shake.

“Thank you, I don’t like it too much. It’s short for a boy’s name, Torrence.” I wrinkle my nose when I explain it to her.

Her brows are pulled down low in question. “Why would your parents’ give you a boy’s name?”

“My father wanted a son but he got a girl.” I shrug.

She smiles brightly. “My dad named me after his friend.”

“How nice. What did your mom think about your dad calling you Andi?” Trying to make small talk with her, I think she’s perfect.

“She doesn’t care.” Andi shrugs this time.

“That’s so nice of her.” I pat her on the back.

“Well, it was nice meeting you.” She shakes my hand before turning to leave.

I’m caught off guard when she swings back quickly to hug me. My hand lands on the floor to keep us upright. I think my heart just melted. She holds on to me so tight, and I catch my breath. Just then an older woman walks up.

“Andi, sweetie. We don’t bother other people while they shop. Please excuse us,” she says, shaking her head.

“I’m sorry, Gamma,” she explains.

“It’s fine, honestly. I think she’s stolen my heart, though.” I watch Lea and Thayer, the look on their faces are hysterical.

“Well, thank you. She’s our baby girl.” Her gamma winks at her.

“I have to go now. I’ll see you later, Torrie.” She waves as she walks to her grandmother. Glancing up at her, her grandmother stands stunned. She’s wide-eyed with her mouth hanging open.

“Torrie? Your name is Torrie?” she asks quietly.

“Yes. Torrie Harrington.” Presenting my hand.