I turned a startled head to Ms. Taydra and answered honestly, “Not really.”
She stepped fully into the store and walked closer with a warm smile. “Anything I can do to help?”
“Thank you. I wish there were something anyone could do. This is all me, now.” I resolved before ushering the children to the front door. “Come on, let’s get lunch and boba tea.” The children cheered and rushed out of the building and to the SUV parked outside on the street.
While the realtor locked up, I stood outside, picked up my phone, and texted him.
Can we talk?11:55 am
He immediately responded,
Tell me when and where. 11:56 am
Thursday. I’ll send a location later. 11:57 am
That’s your birthday. 11:57 am
I know. Don’t contact me again. You won’t hear from me again until I send the location.11:58 am
I eased the phone into my purse, pulled my shades off the top of my head to cover my eyes, and strolled to my car. A delicious thrill coursed through me, and I didn’t know if it was because I was taking charge of my life again or that I would be in Grey’s presence on my birthday. Either way, I looked forward to my birthday for the first time since I turned twenty-one.
