She takes a sip of her coffee and then wraps her hands around the mug to keep them warm. “So, what’s up, kid? Anything new and exciting going on in your wonderful world?”
“Not really. Same shit, different day.”
“You need to get out more,” she quips. “So, do you want me to drop Mia off at your place before you get home?”
I take a drink big enough to burn the roof of my mouth. “Actually, I was thinking you could keep her for the night if you want.”
She looks at me over the rim of her glasses. “Oh? What are you going to be doing?”
“I have plans. If you want to bring Mia home, that’s fine. She’ll be okay.”
“Of course, I’ll keep Mia, but don’t you dare try to avoid the question I just asked you.”
Not wanting to meet her gaze because I know what’s coming, I mumble, “I’m hanging out with Christie.”
She rolls her eyes. “I should’ve known.”
“Hey, weren’t you the one who was just telling me I needed to get out more?”
“Not with her.”
“What’s wrong with Christie?” I ask.
“Nothing is wrong with Christie. She’s nice enough.”
“Then, what’s the problem?”
“The problem is that you already told me the whole thing with her isn’t going anywhere.”
“So?” I question.
“So, don’t you think that maybe you’re just playing the horizontal Mambo with Christie to avoid any kind of real relationship?”
“Ew, Mom.” My face contorts in horror.
“Would you rather me call it boning?”
“God, no!”
“Stop avoiding my question…again.”
I take a deep breath, trying to think of which answer might appease her. “Look, Christie and I are just having fun. Gives me something to do every once in a while.”
When I say it, I realize how bad it sounds.
“But if you’re messing around with Christie, you aren’t going to be able to find a real relationship with someone you may actually really like.”
“It’s not like women are flocking to sign up to have a real relationship with me, Mom.”
Her eyes narrow in on me. “And how the heck would you know?”
“I’ve dated before and had relationships.”
She rolls her eyes again. “Not anything serious.”
“What’s this about?” I ask. “Is this your way of telling me to avoid casual sex?”
“Honey, you can dip your pen in whatever ink you want. I’m just saying…” Her voice trails off.
