“Very funny. It’s just a little cold. Nothing to get upset and relocate over.”
“Damn, I thought I had you that time.” I laugh. “It’s so nice to hear your voice. It’s been a rough day.”
“Tell me all about it, darling.”
So, over the course of the next couple of hours, I tell Uncle Silas everything. Including what’s happening with Johnny and my newly confused feelings about him. Well, everything aside from my new tattoo. Uncle Silas is the one who did all my other tattoos, and I think he’s a little protective of me in that regard. He probably wouldn’t like to hear that I allowed Johnny to tattoo me without having him properly vetted. By him and Uncle Patrick , of course.
“Well, that all sounds rather exhausting, Becca. Your mother sure has a way of turning your world on its ear, doesn’t she? But this Johnny, he sounds nice. Are you sure he’s just a fake boyfriend?”
And that’s the real question, isn’t it? Last night and this morning sure felt real, but was it really?
“I don’t know, Uncle Silas. I’m not even sure I want him to be a real boyfriend. You remember what happened with Milo. I couldn’t bear to have Johnny run from me when he realizes I’m not good enough for him.”
“First off, you are more than good enough for any man. Johnny would be lucky to have you. And second, my nephew sure was a little dickhead, wasn’t he? I’ve never regretted for a minute choosing you over him.”
Uncle Silas might think I’m good enough for Johnny, but he doesn’t know the reality. He’s dated actresses and supermodels. I’m not exactly in the same league as them. It wouldn’t look good for him to be with someone like me.
“Thanks, I’m glad you chose me too. You’re like the father and mother I never had all rolled into one handsome package.”
“Oh, honey. If I’d ever had a child, I’d have wanted her to be just like you.”
After a few more minutes of small talk, and some updates on the Dara Mia show, we say our goodbyes, with a promise from me that I’ll visit soon.
Talking to Uncle Silas always makes me feel better. I’ve got some motivation now and after a quick brainstorming session I post some new family photoshoot availabilities on my website. I haven’t had any more cancellations for weddings I had booked, so that’s good news. After taking a few minutes to update my social media, close up my laptop and take myself to the shower.
It’s Sunday, and that means family dinner at Alex and Connor’s place. I know Johnny said he’d text me when he finishes his appointment, but I think that was just for show because my mom was here. Either way, I’m pretty sure I’ll see him, so I take a little extra time with my hair and makeup today.
After my shower, I choose ripped-up denim shorts and a tank to wear. It’s warm out today and I really want to get some use out of Alex’s pool, so I get a bag and pack a bikini that I’ve never been brave enough to wear in public. It’s not that revealing, but I’ve always hated having people look at me. I’m always afraid someone from my old high school will recognize me and call me Freddy and I’ll freak out. But I should be safe enough at Alex and Connor’s place. Plus, Johnny made me feel so beautiful last night, and this morning, that I have just enough extra confidence to try it.
I pull out my phone to text Alex about my swimming plans and I see that I have a message from Johnny.
Johnny -I’m all done now. Did your mom stay long?
I look at the time. It’s only been a few hours since Johnny left and mom left right after he did.
Me -No. She pretty much followed you out the door.
Johnny -Can I come by? Are you going to dinner at Connor and Alex’s?
Me -Yes, and yes. I want to go over early to swim though.
Johnny -Perfect. I’ll pick you up and we can go over now. I thought I’d help with cooking tonight. Alex is getting frustrated that Connor doesn’t know his way around the kitchen.
Me -See you soon.
An extra surge of bravery hits me and I unpack my bikini, taking it to my room and putting it on underneath my clothes. I’m going in that pool today if it kills me. Okay, maybe that’s a little extreme, but I am going to get in the water. Alex is my best friend, and that means Connor and the rest of them are going to be in my life, too. I’m sure they have better things to do than stare at me.
At least, I hope they do.
I run around packing up the essentials for an afternoon of fun in the sun, namely sunblock. My skin is so fair that looking out the window can give me a sunburn if I’m not careful, so I always make sure to have SPF 40 or higher with me. I’m busy slathering myself in cream when there’s a knock at the door.
“It’s me,” Johnny calls through the door and I panic while trying to pull my shirt back on, somehow getting it wrapped around me too tightly, and all twisted up.
I’m stuck half in and half out of my tank when I let him in.
“This is an interesting look,” he says with a laugh. “I like it.”
“Yeah, yeah,” I mutter, spinning in a circle like a dog chasing its tail. “Don’t just stand there and laugh at me, help me.”
