Presley goes still.
“It just doesn’t make sense. His behavior isn’t making sense, no matter how irresistible I think he is.”
Sera lets out a little snore, and I kiss the top of her silky hair.
“I want to protect her.” I kiss my daughter again. “And myself.”
Presley’s eyes soften, but she also looks like she’s trying to figure something out.
“If he asks me to spend more time with him, and I agree, it will only be me and him.” I pause. “I just can’t trust him with my heart yet, let alone hers.”
Silence settles between us.
Then she nudges my shoulder gently. “But you still want him.”
“More than air.” I sigh dramatically.
Presley pulls her knees up onto the couch. “Okay, one more question.”
“What?”
“How did it feel, being with him?”
“Hmm … safe,” I admit. “Familiar. But also more intense than a few years ago.”
She grins. “And the kissing?”
“Pres, you’re relentless.”
“What? Throw me a bone. It’s been a while, and this is juicy. I’m completely invested in your love story.”
“Love story?” I huff.
She pushes me. “The kiss?”
I groan. “Fine! Yes, it was amazing.”
She flops backward onto the cushion. “This is better than reality TV.”
“I’m happy to entertain you, Pres.”
She giggles. “You’re glowing, you know?”
I fall silent at that.
Because I don’t think she’s wrong. My heart hasn’t felt this alive in a very long time. And that’s what scares me.
Presley lowers her voice when Sera stirs. “So, what do you think will happen now then?”
“I think … ” I look at my daughter. “Everything’s about to change for all of us.”
I look at the window into the night, city lights twinkling in the sky.
“Alie, he could turn out to be the man you think he is,” she says quietly.
“I hope so. For her sake, and mine.” I brush a hand over my daughter’s head. Emotions swelling.
Presley stands and stretches her arms. “I’d better get going before we make this a sleepover.”
