Page 82 of Finding Molly Parsons

“Why?” Chelsea’s chipper mood was turning in front of Molly’s eyes. Half the reason Molly continued to sleep with Chelsea was because it was easier than fighting with her. Chelsea could be stubborn and petulant. Lesbian drama was a real thing where she was concerned.

“Because I think you want more out of it than a casual arrangement.” Carmen’s words echoed in Molly’s ears. “Just be honest with her. Completely. That’s all you can do. You can’t control how she will react. That’s on her as long as you give it to her straight.”

Chelsea scoffed. “No, I don’t.”

“Chelsea, you walked into my kitchen last night and kissed me like I was your girlfriend. I really didn’t appreciate it. We were clear from the beginning what this was. You told me you wanted the same thing.”

“I do, nothing has changed!” Chelsea shot. Molly stared at her, daring her to lie again. Chelsea had made it obvious she wanted Molly to be her girlfriend and now she needed to own up to it. The intensity of Molly’s stare increased. Chelsea shuffled in her seat. “Mol, fine, I want more. We’re good together, don’t you think?”

“As friends, Chelsea. I’m sorry, but I don’t feel that way about you.”

“So you’ve been using me for sex?” Chelsea growled.

“Yes, because that’s what we agreed on! Openly, I might add. It was a way to de-stress.”

“Well, I want more,” Chelsea demanded.

“Tough shit, Chelsea. I don’t! And I will not be bullied into it.”

They glared at each other, neither willing to back down. How could Chelsea think acting this way would make Molly rethink their situation? It did the opposite and threw up some major red flags. “You’re still invited to the party tonight. I should go, I need to help set it up.”

“So that’s it. What you say goes, huh?”

“On second thought, maybe you shouldn’t come. Take some space, Chels, decide if you still want us to be friends, but remember that is all we’ll ever be.” Sliding back in her chair, Molly stood, gave Chelsea a quick peck on the cheek and walked away.

As awful and uncomfortable as that had been, Molly felt better. Now she could concentrate on tonight’s festivities and the fact that Faith would be leaving. Carmen’s deep brown eyes swam in front of her face. It wasn’t just Faith that Molly would miss.

Before Chelsea interrupted yesterday, Molly could have sworn Carmen was about to kiss her. Molly huffed out loud. She was being delusional. Carmen wouldn’t kiss Molly. No, they were just getting closer because of Faith. Faith, yes, that was the reason. And that she listens to me, comforts me, is caring and fun. Oh, and for the first time in a long time, I feel safe with her. Shit!

Molly had no time for dwelling on silly thoughts. She had to get back and help with the party. Spending time with her niece was the only thing she needed to concentrate on today.

???

“This place looks amazing,” Molly gasped when she stepped out of the kitchen and into the backyard. After getting back from coffee with Chelsea, she’d thrown herself into helping Bessie and Faith in the kitchen. Although she tried to stay present, her mind often wandered to thoughts of Carmen and what she was doing.

“I know, I’m amazing,” Mateo preened.

“And so humble, Hermano.” Carmen deadpanned.

“There’s nothing wrong with blowing your own horn now and then,” Mateo replied smugly.

“Ew, I don’t want to hear about your horn, or who is blowing it,” Enid announced, carrying a tray of mini burgers.

“Ah, Enid, that’s gross. Don’t say things like that in front of me,” Carmen whined. It was amazing how the two Ruizes became almost childlike in the presence of Enid. Molly laughed at their antics.

“At least there is a possibility of someone touching my horn,” Mateo shot. Carmen hit him square in the head with a mini burger.

“Now, children, don’t make me whoop your asses,” Enid admonished, but there was no force behind it.

“She started it,” Mateo whined.

“No, she started it,” Carmen laughed, pointing at a grinning Enid.

“Are we ready for some tunes?” Liam called. This was the most animated Molly had seen him in a while.

“Yes, young Liam, crank it up,” Mateo shouted.

“No one says crank it up,” Enid mocked. “How am I cooler than both of you?” she laughed, pointing at Carmen and Mateo.

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