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Korry nodded. “Love you, Special K.”
I tappedendand placed my phone down beside me.
“What’s going on with your mom?” Charlie asked as he threw one leg over my hip. I pulled him in tightly.
“Her throat cancer is back,” I whispered against the heated skin of his shoulder, barely able to speak over the lump in my throat.
I’d told Charlie about my mum’s esophageal cancer diagnosis last year and the chemo and radiation. It seemed to work for a time, until it didn’t. Another tumor appeared and traditional treatment wasn’t working.
“Oh, Kier, I’m so sorry.”
Charlie rubbed soothing circles on my back.
“Her doctor suggested this experimental treatment, but it’s not covered under our healthcare plan. She’s used up her savings, so now me and Korry have been paying the bill. So far, it’s working, the tumor is shrinking. But she’s upset that we’re covering her debt.”
Charlie’s hand moved up to cup the back of my neck. “She raised you and Kor all on her own, just like my mom. And single parents are tough as fuck because they’re used to being independent. Not relying on anyone for anything. She’s proud.”
“But we’re her sons. We owe her everything.”
“Then remind her that it’s okay for her to lean on you for a change.”
“Thank you. For listening.”
“No need to thank me. I’m always here for you.”
I nodded and kissed him one last time before we separated.
“You give her a call. I’m gonna hop in the shower.”
Charlie slipped out of our bunk, and I finally had room to breathe.
Funny thing was, I was still completely breathless.
CHAPTER13
CHARLIE
When I was done in the shower, I came out to find Kiernan gone.
I was relieved and disappointed in the same breath.
A small part of me wanted time alone to think about what we were doing. And if this was wise. But the bigger part wanted to forget about consequences and just enjoy what was happening. Relish in what was turning out to be the most intense relationship I’d ever had with a man.
Friendship and lust? Who knew it was such an irresistible combination?
After changing into my usual shorts and t-shirt, I picked up my phone to check my messages.
Talked to mum and calmed her down. Thanks for listening. And for last night. And this morning. To be continued. xoxo
I told you, you don’t need to thank me. It was my pleasure. All of it. And yes, it’s a date. xoxo
I hit send before I realized what I’d written.
Then I figured, fuck it. I liked Kiernan, well, more than liked. And I wanted him, and fuck yes, I wanted a date with him.
Noah texted to tell me he was feeling better and would be reporting for duty, so I was free from the engine room. More good news.
An idea popped in my head. The plan today was to take Rowan and friends by tender to the island of Providenciales to visit Grace Bay Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Kiernan would be accompanying the group of course. Normally I’d drop off the guests and return to the ship, but maybe this time I’d stay with them. Or come back and join Kiernan for dinner.
