I have agreed to your demands.For now. But just know that if you become mine… and you will… that boy will be mine too. I promise I’ll always give you the final say. And lots of orgasms. More than you can count.
That last bit catches me by surprise, and I snort out a laugh. Asher’s eyes snap up to mine, and he raises his brow quizzically.
“You having fun over there while I’m stuck doing math, Mom?” he scolds, but there’s no heat in his voice. Lately, we’ve been getting along better than ever. I’m not sure if it’s because of his exhibition excitement or perhaps because my lack of a job means we’re always on time. I’m now at his disposal for any chauffeuring needs. Regardless, he’s the most amazing kid, and I treasure my time with him. A surge of protectiveness makes my stomach clench.
No one is going to come between us.
For a moment, I wonder if I should tell him about Julius and Vonn. About meeting my scent-matches, but I’m afraid of scaring him. Things are so blessedly normal in our lives right now, I can’t bear the thought of creating any instability. Plus, I barely know them. Until we—Vonn, Julius, and I—know that we can actually spend time in one another’s company without committing murder, there’s just no reason to tell my sweet boy. Even if his reaction is positive, getting his hopes up only to destroy them would be almost as bad. I mean, what hockey-obsessed kid wouldn’t want two hockey pro dads?
Fuck. Not his dads. Stepfathers, maybe? I don’t know, but if his sperm donor ever comes looking…
A shudder of revulsion works its way through me, and I quickly answer, “No, just a funny meme. Do you need any help?”
“Not yet, but don’t leave, okay?” His sweet request helps me put the past back in its tiny box, and I give him a nod and what I hope is a reassuring smile.
Vonn has been added to the chat.
Julius
See, there’s your proof. She says I can come, so let’s get this date planned. Can we do it tomorrow? Or like now? We can come over right now with food. You name it, we’ll bring it.
Me
Now doesn’t work. What do you guys have going on later this week? Preferably in the afternoon. I’m not ready to tell Asher about this yet.
Julius
Fine. But send us your address. Just so we have it.
No way, buddy. I’m definitely not ready for that, so I ignore the text. Fortunately, Vonn replies.
Vonn
So, Mama, I just got our practice schedule for the week. We could do lunch on Wednesday or Thursday. Or dinner on Friday if you’re available—whenever works best for you.
Me
I have a job interview at 11 downtown on Wednesday. I’ll be free after that until I need to go pick up Asher at three. Does that work for you guys?
Julius
NO! That’s two whole days away. Too long. Let’s talk again about us bringing you dinner tonight.
Vonn
It’s only a day and a half, you pain in the ass. And yes, we’re free all afternoon, so that’s perfect. I know a great place. I’ll send you the address.
Asher glances up at me from across the table. “Mom, I think I could use some help.”
Me
Homework duty calls. I’ll see you on Wednesday.
Julius
Tell that teacher to cut the crap with the homework. He doesn’t need it. He’s gonna be a star.
Vonn
