Page 17

“Oh, no, what happened?”

“For one, he treats me like I’m a kid.”

Phoebe has been dating a guy for a few months, and things are starting to get serious. She hasn’t told many people about him because her dating life is as disastrous as mine.

“That’s just Decker being protective.”

The line goes silent. Oops. Did it sound like I was sticking up for him?

“Decker?” she balks.

“Well, that is his name, the last time I checked.”

“See what I mean?” she huffs. “He has me all in a spin, and I wanted to go away on Friday night, but he’ll only ask questions. The girls were going to have a movie night, and now I don’t know what to do.”

“Well, you probably could start by pulling your big-girl panties up and telling him it’s your life,” I suggest.

“As much as that hurts to hear, you’re right.”

“So? Take the bull by the horns—you deserve this.”

“You’re speaking my language.”

“I usually do.” It makes me happy Phoebe has found a nice guy. He’d better treat her right or else.

“So, you don’t mind, then?”

I frown. “Don’t mind what?”

“Looking after the girls? If I ask Dad, he’ll want to know what I’m going out of town for, and I’ll feel guilty for leaving my child to go and have sex.”

“You’re an adult, just tell him.” I shake my head in amusement.

“Please, Pearly? You can have my room. I know the girls are teenagers, but they can’t be left alone. And I don’t wanna ask Dad because he may have plans.”

Plans? What kind of plans?

“Oh,” I say, switching the phone to my other ear.

“I mean with the boys: Leroy and his friend, Dallas. They’re having a boys’ night.”

Okay, so he won’t be there. This is looking up. The further we stay away from one another, the better.

“Fine, I’ll put you out of your misery, but you owe me.”

“Oh, my God, thank you!” she all but squeals. “I have to go get waxed.”

“Ouch, well, I hope that stud-muffin of a man is worth it.”

“He is. I think this is the real deal.”

I smile to myself, pleased my friend is happy. She really has been on her own for a long time. I know the feeling too well. “I’m glad. Text me the details. I’ll grab some snacks. Me and the girls can make a night of it.”

“Lifesaver, I’ll make it up to you.”

“I gotta go, talk later.”

“Okay, thanks, P.”