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CHAPTER 27
LEO
Leo parked near Cassandra’s flat. She lived in one of the three-story brick Georgian homes that bordered Bedford Square Park. He turned off the engine and sat for a moment. He was early, but he was impatient to see her.
His phone rang with a call from Ben. He anticipated another round of badgering from his friend.
“Hey, Ben. What’s up?”
“Are you nervous about your date with Cassandra?”
“It’s not a date,” he grumbled, wishing it was a date. And yes, he was nervous as hell. “I’m here to apologize and explain. Then we’ll see.”
“Grovel. It works every time.” Ben laughed. “I’m calling to invite you and Cassandra to lunch next week.”
Leo had to get through today before planning for next week. “I’ll consider it.”
“Listen, Leo.” Ben paused. “Amanda and I want you to be happy. It’s time, mate.” Ben ended the call.
Was it as simple as that?It could bean inner voice told him.
His phone buzzed with a text from Ben.
This could be your future.
Ben attached a photo of his family room in total disarray. Toys littered the floor, and his two boys were crashed out on the couch, both sound asleep.
Leo replied.
It looks like a disaster zone.
Dots filled the screen with Ben’s reply.
It is. But it’s worth it.
He looked closer at the photo and tried to imagine the same scenario in his future. As a kid, he craved the stability a close family could provide. Maybe one day he would have that same life. Yes, it would be worth it. He smiled and turned off his phone.
Picking up the plant he brought for Cassandra, he climbed out of his car and headed toward the address.
Shouts and laughter from the park across the street caught his attention. Families, kids, and couples gathered for picnics on this warm day. He kept his eye on a group of boys, full of joy running around kicking a ball. He remembered being that young. Life was simple, and then James Sutton re-entered his world, changing everything about who he was and what he could be.
He arrived at Cassandra’s building, took a deep breath, and pushed the doorbell. He waited and pushed again. No answer. Maybe she was still getting ready. He pushed the doorbell one more time, his pulse increasing with each passing second. He took out his phone to double-check the address. It was the right place.
Leo sat on the top step and waited for a few minutes before he called her. No answer. He scanned the area. Where was she? He rose to his feet, debating what to do.
He spotted Cassandra on the sidewalk rushing toward him and carrying a canvas grocery bag in each hand. She wore a pair of jeans and a white peasant blouse. When she got closer, she burst into a radiant smile just for him. He couldn’t have hoped for a better greeting.
“Sorry, I’m late,” she called out.
He rushed to her side to take the bags. “Let me take these.”
“I thought I’d have enough time to do some shopping,” she said, shoving her glasses up on her nose.
“No problem. I’m just glad you’re here.”
“Did you think I stood you up?”
He shook his head with a smile but didn’t answer, not wanting to admit she was exactly right. During their two weeks apart, Leo had experienced all the highs and lows of his insecurity, worrying she wouldn’t want to see him again. “When it comes to you, I’m never sure.”
