AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I can tell. He’s been taking care of my daughter, and that’s no easy task. I would know, I raised you.”
“Mom, oh my God. That’s rude.”
“It’s not, honey.” She laughs. “And it means a lot that you even let him take care of you. It means he’s important to you.”
“He is,” I admit, pausing before I tell her, “I love him.”
“I know. I can hear it in your voice.”
“I haven’t told him yet. And I don’t know if he feels the same, but he told me he wanted more. So, I’ll wait.”
“Oh, Ashley. That boy loves you. He’s called every day for the past four days. I hear it in his voice like I do yours.”
“How did he call you when I was with him? How did he get your number?”
“Don’t worry about it, honey.” I can hear the smile in her voice. “I’m glad you found a man who cares so deeply for you. I know he’ll take care of you.”
“I’m fully capable of taking care of myself, mom.”
“That’s not what I’m saying. I just know that you’ll be taken care of, and loved, by a man worthy of you. Your father would approve, too.”
Tears prick my eyes at the mention of my dad. I know he would like Ryan. He would love talking to him about small town life and being a sheriff.
“I know he would,” I croak, my throat tight again.
“I didn’t mean to upset you.”
“You didn’t. I’m glad we can talk again, mom.”
“Me too, honey. I love you.”
“Love you, too.”
“Will you be calling me more, then, I hope?”
“Yes, I promise.”
“Alright. Well, I’ll let you go. Make sure you rest.”
“I will. Bye, mom.”
“Bye, honey.”
Hanging up, I lay my head back against the couch and sigh. I’ve missed my mom so much these past eight years, and I feel like I’m finally getting her back now. I wanted her to get help, but I didn’t want to be the one to suggest it. I wanted her towanthelp.
My phone ringing brings me back, and I swipe to answer.
“Hey, Ally.”
“I’m here.”
“Okay, go to the side door. I’ll be right there.” Standing, I wipe my face and walk through the kitchen to open the door for her.
“What’s wrong?” she asks right away.
“Nothing, why?”
“It looks like you’ve been crying. What did Ryan do?”
