The longer I think about it, the more confusing it gets. Yes, he’s a great guy. The sex is phenomenal. He’s fun to be around, which is a surprise.
But I’m leaving here in two weeks. His teenage daughter is his top priority—as she should be. I’m not even certain I want to be involved with a teenager full-time.
I cringe.What are you thinking, Megan? You aren’t staying here. You don’t have a role or the opportunity to have a role in Kennedy’s life long-term. Get yourself together.
“Dallas is my home because this is where I raised you,” Mom says. “I’m happy here. My friends are here. My life is here.” She pauses. “I’m safe here.”
I exhale harshly.
“You’ll find your home, Megan.”
“I’m starting to wonder if that’s true.”
“One day, you’ll wake up and realize that a piece of your heart resides outside your body. You’ll feel a draw to that place no matter where you are in the world. You’ll only feel whole and content when you’re there—and that will be your home. That’s where things make sense. That’s where you’re meant to be.”
I lean against the counter and glance around the kitchen. I can hear Kennedy’s laughter and Chase’s sighs as she prods him for a reaction. The smell of dinner wafts through the air.
And I smile.This place is a home.
“My doctor’s office is calling,” Mom says. “Call me later, okay?”
“I will. Love you.”
“Love you, Megan. Goodbye.”
The call ends. I’m holding the phone in the middle of the kitchen as a myriad of emotions rolls through me. The biggest feelings scare me because here, in this room—in this house, my life makes more sense than ever.
I look at my screen.
Chase: What are you doing?
Me: Figuring out dinner. You?
Chase: Trying not to punch my supervisor.
Me: Sounds like a solid plan.
Chase: I have another solid plan.
Me: Do you?
Chase: I want you to sleep with me tonight.
Me: What about Kennedy?
Chase: Once she’s in her room, she doesn’t come out. I’ll be gone from tomorrow morning until Friday night. I need to get enough of you to hold me over.
Me: You’re insatiable.
Chase: Are you complaining?
Me: Not even a little.
Chase: I should be home around seven.
Me: I’ll be here.
Chase: See you then.
