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“Well, it’s not what you think,” I said.
I took a deep breath and started to tell her about my history with Anthony. How he had come into my life like a whirlwind and swept me off my feet in my father’s garage. How I hadn’t heard from him for weeks after that, but then how he had apologized and explained his situation. How being with him, even as just a friend, made me feel alive again—like I had a purpose in this world.
I began to recount every single detail of my past two days with Anthony. From the moment he picked me up at my father's place to the late-night conversations we shared over glasses of wine and alcohol. I relished every moment and didn't want to leave anything out.
My friend listened intently, asking questions and cheering me on. It was so nice to have someone to share my joy with, to have someone who understood just how important this was to me.
Finally, as our conversation drew to a close, my friend said, "I'm so happy for you. You deserve this happiness, and I'm glad you found it."
And at that moment, I realized just how lucky I was to have someone like Anthony in my life. Someone who made me feel whole again, someone who understood me in a way that no one else ever had.
Chapter eleven
Anthony
"My daddy's new friend is visiting today," my daughter Amanda announced excitedly to her friends. Their heads snapped toward her, and I almost spilled my glass of water from seeing the sudden motion. I watched as her friends' eyes widened in disbelief, and then they started whispering excitedly to each other.
"Your dad has afriend?" one of them asked incredulously.
"Yes, he does!" Amanda replied, beaming with pride. "And she's coming over today!"
"She's a girl?" Lillian asked innocently.
I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment. Amanda was always so talkative, and sometimes she shared too much information about our family. I cleared my throat, trying to regain control of the conversation.
"Yes, my friend is a female," I said, trying to keep my voice steady, "and she's coming over to catch up."
Amanda's friends seemed to lose interest in the conversation quickly and went back to watching cartoons on the TV. I took the opportunity to work on my computer while they were distracted. But I did feel a little nervous about Laura's visit.
I got up from my chair and started cleaning the house, making sure everything was in order for Laura's arrival. I wanted to make a good impression on her, and I wanted Amanda to see that we had important people in our lives.
As I was working in the kitchen, my phone buzzed. It was a text from Laura. She was on her way and would be there soon. My heart raced with anticipation. I couldn't wait for Amanda to meet her, praying hard for Amanda to like her at first glance.
I went back to the living room where the kids were still engrossed in their cartoons. They were mimicking the characters and laughing loudly. I smiled at their innocence and went to check on the food I was preparing.
Just then, the doorbell rang, and my heart skipped a beat. I hurriedly wiped my hands on my apron and went to answer the door. There was Laura, looking as beautiful as ever, with a smile on her face. I greeted her warmly and motioned to the three kids, "We have a full house," I whispered.
Laura smiled sweetly.
Amanda's eyes widened in amazement as I led Laura into the living room.
"Is this your friend?" she asked, looking up at Laura in awe.
"Yes, she is," I replied, feeling proud of myself. I think Amanda liked her.
Laura knelt and greeted Amanda with a warm hug. "It's so nice to finally meet you, Amanda," she said, smiling.
Amanda beamed with happiness, and I knew that this was going to be a memorable day for her. Amanda's friends came closer too.
"Amanda, introduce your friends," I said, smiling because I knew Laura was in for a long conversation with those three.
"This is Lilian and this is Jules. They’re identical twins, can you see that?" Amanda explained, "Lilian can't draw that well, but she knows how to—"
Lilian interrupted her.
"Play soccer well, Miss Laura. Do you play soccer?" asked Lilian.
"Miss Laura, can you sing?" Jules added.
