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“Did you check it out? What do you think?”
“I did. It looks nice. Valentina hasn’t stopped talking about school. And Matteo is different. He seems happy. Relaxed. Maybe you were right.”
“He’s getting better. I can see it.”
“Valentina can’t stop talking about your puppy. Matteo was beaming at the mention of her name. I might have to meet her...once she’s housetrained.”
I can’t help but smile. Gabriela doesn’t like anything messy. A puppy definitely isn’t in her comfort zone.
“Yes, Dora has been wonderful for him. My friend suggested a pet to help with Matteo’s anxiety. I think it’s already working.”
“Is that Beth?”
“It is.”
“According to the kids, she’s your girlfriend. Is that right?”
I was planning to talk to her about it while she’s home. “Yes.”
“I thought you don’t do girlfriends.”
“Maybe I’m changing.”
Silence.
“Gab?”
Her voice is barely a whisper now. “I’m here. Why couldn’t it be with me?”
I sigh. “I’m sorry, Gab. I really am. Listen, I know you have to get back down to your mother in a few days. There’s a school holiday show on Monday. You’ll be able to come, right? I know the kids would love to have you there.”
“I’ll be there. Will…will she be there?”
“Her son goes to the same school. I imagine she will.”
She’s silent for a moment before saying, “Okay. I’ll have the kids Facetime you in the morning.”
“Have a good night. Enjoy your time with them.”
* * *
BETH
I see Dominic’s car pull into my driveway. I poke my head into my family room. “Luke, Rose, I’m leaving.”
They both look up from the blocks they’re building on the ground and smile. “Bye, Mommy.”
“Bye, baby.”
I open the door just as Dominic is about to knock. His hand is still in the air. “Oh, I was going to save you the trip…”
Before I finish, he pulls me into his arms and takes my mouth in a deep kiss. He’s the most outwardly affectionate man I’ve ever been around. I thought Trevor and his whole family were full of affectionate men, but Dominic takes it to another level. He never cares who’s around, the kids included. He will touch me and open mouth kiss me anywhere, anytime. I can’t say I mind it at all.
I lean into him and thread my fingers through his curling hair. It’s usually styled, but at the end of the day it often gets messier and curls a bit. It’s so sexy. Everything about him is sexy.
“Beth, is it okay…”
Rose stops mid-sentence when she sees Dominic and me making out at the front door. I pull away from him and turn around, trying to gather my senses.
