“I won’t hit you – for now.”
“Thanks,” he says.
“Now show me where I went wrong,” Skylar says.
I silently step away, bursting with emotion. Once I’m sure they won’t hear me, I pull my phone out of my pocket. I’m not sure what makes me type; maybe it’s the conversation I’ve just heard, or Carter’s courage, or maybe it’s this growing sensation in my stomach. And it has nothing to do with the giant slice of dessert I’ve just shovelled into my mouth.
I want to come over tonight.
Her reply arrives as my heart rate begins to rapidly increase.
Why?
I thought she’d have put me in my place immediately; instead, she gives me a glimmer of hope.
I want to be with you.
Another few minutes. This time, I can feel a panic attack brewing.
I’m scared that this is all slipping out of my control.
I can’t and won’t lie to her.
I’m scared that you’re right, but I can’t stop now. I don’t want to.
It’s too much of a risk.
I know that she’s not talking about her job, but I also know that she needs me to believe her. That way, she’ll believe in herself, too.
I’ll be discreet. No one will see me.
No reply.
After dinner. I’ll bring dessert.
Another few minutes, more uncontrollable heartbeats. My palms are clammy – then her message arrives.
Remember how much I love chocolate.
Niall
When I go back into the living room, Carter is packing up his things.
“Finished already?”
Carter glances at his watch. “It’s been an hour and a half. That’s what we agreed on.” He hooks his backpack onto his shoulder and heads towards the door, followed by Skylar.
“You can stay if you want.”
My daughter’s face snaps up towards me.
“For dinner. It’s already seven.”
“Oh, I don’t know—”
“You can call your parents and tell them I’ll drop you home after dinner.”
My daughter still hasn’t insulted me, yet.
