AllFreeNovel
Share Us
She tips her head from side to side. “She’s had problems with her left eye.”
“She mentioned that before I left. Has it gotten worse?”
“A little, I think. But she’s been in good spirits.”
“That might be something to do with the margarita.”
“She did enjoy it though.”
I smile. “Then it was worth it.”
“I’m glad you appear to have had a good time.” Her eyes twinkle.
I glance at the house. “I wasn’t going to tell Mum. I don’t want her to think she’s holding me back.”
“She thinks that anyway, sweetie.”
“Yeah, but it’s going to be worse if she thinks I’ve met someone.”
“Have you? Met someone?”
I hesitate. “No. It was just a… fling, I guess.”
“But you’re about to text him?”
“He asked me to let him know I got home safely, that’s all.”
“Right.”
I give her a wry look. “He’s a nice guy. But I live nine hours away.”
Her smile fades. “Yeah, I know. I’m so sorry. I should do more…”
“Oh God, June, no, don’t say that. Christ, you have a full-time job, and a husband and four teenagers at home. You already do more than enough. This is why I didn’t want to say anything. I’m not looking for things to change. I’m happy with the way things are. I just wanted…” My brain fills in the blanks. A gorgeous guy to go down on me. Who’d take my virginity in a manly fashion while also being kind and gentle. Who’d then fuck the living daylights out of me. “A bit of fun,” I choose lamely.
“You deserve so much more,” she says, holding my upper arms and looking into my eyes. “You’ve looked after Penny since you were a teenager and never asked anything in return.”
“She’s my mum,” I whisper, suddenly emotional at her outburst. “I lost my dad. I don’t want to lose her as well.”
She rubs my arms. “Yeah, I know.” She clears her throat. “Well, go on, you message your young man. I’m going to go and quiz Charlie all about him.”
I roll my eyes, and she laughs and goes inside.
I turn one of the outdoor chairs to face the setting sun and sit. I open my call record, add Kip’s number to my contacts, then message him.
Me:Hey, it’s me. You asked me to let you know when I got home. Well, I’m here! A long day, but finally done.
He comes back immediately.
Kip:Oh, I’m so glad. I’ve been wondering how you were doing. I’m guessing there are closures on State Highway 2?
Me:Yeah, we had to go the long way around.
Kip:Well, it’s good that you made it. How’s your mum?
Me:She’s good, thank you. Charlie’s currently revealing all my secrets to her.
Kip:I thought my ears were burning.
