“But… but—-”
“Jesus, Matilda, where have you been?” Alec looks distraught.
“Oh, hey, Alec. This is Nonna Alice.”
She gives him a once-over. “Now I see what the rush is, Matilda.” Then she giggles.
“Right? He’s hot as sin.”
“That he is, my dear.”
“Let’s go, Matilda.”
“Where’s the stuff?” I point to his empty arms. “Ran it to the truck. I thought I’d make it back before you were done in the bathroom, but I missed you. I stood around and waited, thinking you were still in there.”
“Nope. I did my business, then went on a walkabout.”
“I can see that.” He sighs. “Come on, honey. Let’s go home.”
“See?” I point directly at Alec, but I’m talking to Alice. “He calls me honey all the time. But it means absolutely nothing.”
She pats my arm. “Oh, I think it means something. Just give it some time.”
“Got no time.” Pushing myself up to my feet, I realize there’s an older man standing off to the side. “Oh, was that your chair?”
“It was, but that’s all right. Alice gives great advice.”
“She does.” I feel wetness touch my cheek. “I miss my Nonna Vicky. And my mom.”
“They’re with you, my dear.”
“I know.” I do know that. They’re always with me.
Alec takes my hand and pulls me away. I wave until I can’t see Alice anymore. When we’re on the concrete parking lot, I jerk my hand out of Alec’s. I’m still mad. Or was I sad? I’m giving that thought when I trip on something. Luckily, Alec catches me. I’m up in the air and over his shoulder before I can say a word.
“Alec?” I’m looking straight down at his ass, which means mine is right there by his face too. “My dress.” His warm hand slides up the back of my thigh. I feel the tug of my dress. “It’s fine. You’re covered.”
“Doubtful.”
“It is. I’ve got you, Matilda.”
Also doubtful.
“I heard that.”
Well, crap on a cracker. Time to shut my mouth.
“Good idea.”
ChapterThirty-Seven
Matilda
“Matilda?”I feel my body being jostled.
God, my head hurts.
“Matilda, wake up.”
