“I want to let you in, but it’s too soon.”
He nods. “I know it is. That’s why I’m giving you this now so you know I’ll be waiting when you’re ready.”
I reach for it, placing my hand on it and feeling the roughness of the stones. It’s a little overwhelming—I’m not used to getting jewellery. Mark was more practical and less romantic when it came to gift giving.
There was no doubt in my mind that he loved me, but he wasn’t very good at expressing himself.
“Do you want to sleep in my bed tonight?” I hold my palm out. “Just like the night of Sophie’s party. Not anything more than that.”
He looks sheepish. “I’m glad you asked. I’m not sure my back could survive a night on your couch.”
“I think I might get off to bed and have an early night. Thank you so much for the pendant. It’s beautiful.”
Patrick smiles. “I just wanted to make it clear how much you mean to me. I’m well aware that we have a lot to talk about and resolve before we move forward. And I know you need time. But I’ve got you.”
I rise from the couch. “I appreciate it.”
“I’ll make sure we’re all locked up and follow you.”
By the time I reach the bedroom, my heart’s pounding in my ears.
But after changing and slipping into bed, I’m out as soon as my head hits the pillow.
Lauren’s standingin the kitchen when I walk out.
She turns as I enter the room, one hand on the jug, the other on a coffee mug. “I’ll grab another cup,” she says.
“That would be good.”
“Can we talk?”
“Of course we can.” I give her hip a squeeze.
“Go and sit in the living room and I’ll bring in the coffee.”
I sit in the silence for a few moments before she walks inwith two mugs that she places on the coffee table before taking a seat on the couch next to me.
“I wanted to apologise for yesterday. I’m so sorry.”
I shake my head. “It’s okay. You were safe under my roof last night, and that’s all that matters.”
Tears well in her eyes. “I’m making such a mess of things. Mark would be so angry.”
“Mark would understand.” I reach for her hand. “He loved you so much, Lauren, and he didn’t want to leave you any more than he wanted to leave me.”
“The things I said, though. I hit on Patrick right in front of you …”
“But you wouldn’t do it sober. I know that.”
“I just want what you have.” She sniffs. “I just want someone who’ll be there for me and love me. You got two of them.”
“I’m greedy.” I risk a small smile, and she lets out a snort. “Drinking isn’t the answer, though.”
“I know.” She tilts her head as she looks at me. “I promise I’ll try and do better.”
“The last thing I want to do is lose you too.”
She bites her bottom lip. “So, Patrick slept with you last night?”
