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“Mom likes that,” Zayn muses. I’m noticing that he’s starting to call me ‘Mom’ when he’s not specifically speaking to me or talking to my family. He’s getting so big. “She can’t get too hot.”
“I fu…messed up and didn’t know that our last date,” Arran admits.
“I liked the concert,” I say quickly.
“What happened?” my son asks, frowning.
“There were a lot of people,” Arran says, pretending to whisper.
“Yuck,” he says, making me huff out a laugh. I’m afraid I’m passing on my social avoidance. That’s not to say my son isn’t well liked, but he’s an introvert.
“I’m realizing the error of my ways,” Arran says sagely.
“I’ll go out with you,” I say, unable to stop smiling. “I just need to make sure my grandfather can take Zayn to school.”
“Can you take me to school Friday, please?” Zayn asks into voice to text. “Mommy will explain.”
Thanks, kid. That’s going to be a fun conversation later.
“Okay then,” Arran says, lips pressed together to hide his smile. “Can I text you later?”
“Yes.” I raise my eyebrows at Zayn as he puts his tablet casually to the side with an innocent smile. I can’t even be mad.
“Thanks for the help, Zayn. I definitely needed it,” Arran says with a wink, straightening up as he leaves with a wave.
My phone buzzes and I catch the waitress’ attention for the bill. She grins at me and slides it over before continuing on while I put my card down, add a tip, and check my phone.
Emil
Is everything alright? Why is Zayn asking me to take him to school?
I’m pretty independent. It takes a very bad day or an act of god for me to ask for help, and thankfully those are fewer than they’ve been in the past. I’ve found a way to pace myself and avoid my triggers.
Me
I have a date and need a babysitter. Zayn is jumping the gun a bit on this. I am not planning to spend the night with Arran and can take him to school.
Emil
I should probably see his school anyway, as a concerned great grandparent and all…
I roll my eyes as another text comes in and giggle.
Arran
Is it too soon to text? You’re so damn beautiful, Isla. I should have given you a hug before I left.
“Mommy.”
“Mmmhmm.” I put my phone away and take my card back.
“What did Grandpa Emil say?”
“You don’t have to spend the night with him,” I remind him, gathering our things together as we slide out of the small booth.
“There are pancakes at Grandma Julia’s,” Zayn grins.
“Well, you should have led with that,” I say, holding his hand as I walk. “Thank you!”
