Page 57 of Be My Summer

“Baby– what’s the matter?”

“Th– that’s her.”

“That’s who?”

“Her, Saul. It’s her.”

“Summer, you’ve got to be clearer, love. I’m not following.”

“My MOTHER.”

My heart broke.

My head ached.

My stomach ached.

My entire fucking body ached.

“Su– Sum– Summe–”

My hands landed on my head as I stepped away. I paced back and forward trying to process what had just been revealed. I didn’t understand. There was no way that could’ve been true. It had to be a fucking joke.

The woman that loved me with every fiber in her being loved Summer… none? It didn’t make sense. I wasn’t biologically hers, but she’d stepped into my life and raised me as if she’d carried me for nine months. However, the child she actually carried was craving her love, her hugs, and her presence.

“She didn’t even recognize me.”

“Summer, I’m sorry.”

“I need to get home.”

“I’ll take you home.”

“Saul– I need a minute. I need a minute. I need–”

“Me, Summer. And, I’m here. For as long as you need me.”

“I need to get to my father.”

“Then, that’s where I’m taking you.”

“But, then, I need you to–”

“I understand,” I admitted, “I’ll give you the space you need. I’ll give you the time you need, but I won’t wait long, Summer.”

I stepped up to her, catching her chin with the tips of my fingers.

“I’ll be back. You understand me?”

Crying on my fingertips, Summer crumbled.

“When I told you you’re not alone anymore, I meant that in every regard… even this one. I have some shit to straighten out myself, so time is what we both might need at the moment. But, there won’t be too much time, Summer. There will never be too much time. The week can have you, but you’re mine on weekends. Every weekend. Understood?”

Nodding, she sniffled. “Understood.”

“Good.”

CHAPTER TEN