Crane drops his phone, heaving a sigh.
“Yeah. I’ve gotta go. I’ll see you later.”
What?!
He can’t go, what about a morning rendezvous?!
I open my mouth to protest when he thanks my mom for breakfast, and heads out of the room.
Mom gives me a funny look, arching her brow at my distraught expression.
“Sleep well?”
Yes, because I had great sex with the hottest guy in the world.
“Yes, thanks. You?”
“Your dad couldn’t sleep so that meant I couldn’t. Then Kai lost his key, and I had to let him in at some ridiculous hour.”
“Was he with Lorena again?” I frown, watching the milk swirl around in my coffee.
“I have no idea what your brother does. Or you, anymore.” Mom rolls her eyes and turns to me. “Why the sad face?”
Immediately, I’m forcing a smile, shaking my head with mock confusion.
“Huh?”
My fuck buddy has disappeared.
“Crane left, and you looked like someone stole your favourite toy.”
How accurate.
“He’s nice to look at, that’s all.”
Mom studies me, hooking the basket of laundry under her arm.
“Well, he’s got a lot going on. Don’t add to his shit, honey.”
I’m offended.
“Excuseme? I’m a pleasure to be around!”
“Of course, you are, honey. But Crane doesn’t need anyone messing with his head.”
Her pointed look silences me, and I slump back into my seat.
“You’re beautiful, Sierra, but Crane has college and God knows what else with his family. Don’t add to his stress, is all I’m saying.”
“I’m not.”
Mom nods, heading past me into the garden.
“Good.”
Sometimes I think she forgets that I’m her child, not Crane.
Mom’s always loved him like a son, and I think for that reason she wouldn’t encourage anything between us.
