Page 64 of Even Ground

There’s a pause, and Delaney sighs. “Sometimes. The diner kept me busy all the time, and I love my life, but there are days I haven’t worked out how to fill yet. But I’m happier than I have been in a long time. I just miss you.”

“Miss you too.”

“One day I’ll convince you to move over here with me.”

I laugh. “Maybe.”

“Anyway, I should go. Josh just walked in the door, and we’re due some mummy and daddy time.”

I screw up my nose. “Ew. I don’t want to know.”

“That’s why I told you. I’m leaving you with that image.” She chuckles. “Oh, by the way, Reece asked for your number.”

I swallow hard. “Why?”

“Someone asked him about my wedding dress. He wants to put you in touch. I didn’t think you’d mind, but now I’m thinking that I shouldn’t have done it.”

I close my eyes. I’m not sure I want this—we shared a kiss that’s not likely to mean anything to him, and I’m not interested in getting hurt. But then again, he wants to contact me …

I can’t read anything into it.

“That’s fine. I mean, it’s all good if I can pick up some work.”

“I thought it would be. And it’s way better to go through him than someone randomly contacting you. Let me know if it turns into anything.”

Clamping my lips together, I shift my gaze to the ceiling. “Sure will.”

“Talk to you soon.”

Once the call disconnects, I stare at the blank screen for a moment. It’s so tempting just to throw it all in and go back. Delaney would let me stay while I found my feet, and if there are people asking about my designs …

My phone buzzes, and I shake my head to get me out of my stupor.

Reece: Hey. It’s Reece. Delaney gave me your number.

I raise an eyebrow. Looks like that didn’t take too long.

Me: She told me. I was just on Skype with her.

After dropping my phone on the table, I head to the cooktop. I fill a pan with water and place it on the element, flicking on the gas.

My life would be so different if I moved to stay with Delaney—even for a little while. But I always looked up to the way she lived her life when she started her own business. She went for what she wanted, and while she had to make sacrifices, she never gave up.

I want to follow my dream and not take shortcuts. That means three years of study and building my own little empire. Delaney had her diner, and I’ll have my own fashion business one day.

After wandering back to the table, I pick up my phone.

Reece: I never got to say goodbye. You cheated.

A smile tugs at my lips despite me not wanting it to.

Me: We both know it’s for the best.

Reece: Probably, but I’m going to pester you from time to time.

Me: Until I change my number.

I laugh and put my phone back down. This isn’t getting my dinner cooked. But it’s a pleasant distraction.

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