Page 57 of Bone Dust

I clear my throat and strengthen my tone. “Listen, you’re a reasonable woman. You followed the band. You’ve read the things they printed about me. There’s a reason they called me asshole Ian.”

“Were the reasons valid? Were you an asshole?” The questions are sincere.

I huff out a laugh. “Well, yeah. I guess I was.”

“And now? Are you an asshole now?”

My posture deflates, and I wipe my hand over my face, thankful she can’t see me right now. “I don’t know. I’m not sure how I can judge my own character. I mean, that first night at Sam’s, I was kind of a prick to you.”

“And I was to you.” She pauses. “I’ll tell you what; show up. That’s all you have to do. Show up for our dinner and honor your commitment to take me out. Don’t think about what’s happened in the past. Don’t worry about what will be in the future. Show up. Stay present. What happens, happens. Do you think you can do that?”

“Yeah, but?—”

“No buts,” Savi interrupts. “Dinner with me. A friend. A simple commitment. I’m holding you to your word and I’ll leave the door unlocked so I can fluff up my hair and finish getting ready.”

Leaving me no room for thought, she disconnects.

I twist the doorknob. It’s unlocked, just as she said.

“Savannah?”

“Be there in a minute,” she calls, the sound of her voice trailing down from upstairs.

I walk around the living room, meandering to take in her style, and pause to look at photos on the mantle above the fireplace and strategically placed on top of a piano. Most are of Gigi at different stages of her life, and I can’t help but smile. She’s a cutie and these photos catch her in the silliest poses. I don’t know much about babies, but she wasn’t all wrinkly and squishy-faced, but more round and rosy-cheeked. She’s got a sparkle that doesn’t fade from picture to picture, and I find myself smiling as I look at each one.

On the other end of the mantle, beyond the central photos of Gigi, are images of Savannah and a man and woman, whom I’m guessing are her parents. The resemblance between the two women is uncanny. Their smile in the photo shoots a pang of envy through my heart. The affection reflected in the images is almost palpable, and most definitely something I’ve never felt. I shove my hands in my pockets and nod. I’m happy for her. She’s lucky to have this collection to hold onto. I guess I am too. I have one photo of my mother: none of my old man.

As I move about the room draped in creamy colors, I find myself relaxing. Even the mountain of Gigi’s toys in the corner is nice and neatly stacked next to a large wooden box with her name painted in pink script lettering.

“Hi.”

I turn at the sound of her voice, and the vision causes my breath to catch. If I thought Savi was pretty before, she’s even more so now. Confidence fills her every step as she crosses the room like a queen with a demure smile filling her red lips. Black stilettos dangle from her fingers. With her back straight and chin held high, I can’t think of a more perfect example of elegance and grace.

“I was admiring your taste. It looks nice in here.”

“Thanks,” she says glancing left and right. “It’s a challenge to keep it this way. The minute Gigi wakes up, the toys come out. She’s got more in the family room which is typically more an obstacle course than living space.” She pauses, looking at the flowers in my hand. “They’re pretty.”

“Oh. Yeah.” I lift the blooms, filling the space between us. “These are for you.”

She drops her shoes on the carpet and takes the flowers from my hand. “Thank you. I’ll put these in some water. Be right back.”

I watch as she disappears into another room then just as quickly is back. Holding onto my arm she slips her feet inside her heels. Instantly she gains a few inches putting her at eye level with me. The simple black dress and sun-colored hair are all she needs. Clearly, I’m out of my league.

“You look beautiful,” I say, my voice exposing a bit more awe than I intend.

She smiles, a hint of a blush creeping onto her cheeks. “Thank you.” Tipping her head toward her shoulder, she gives me a coy look. “You’re not too bad yourself.”

“Thanks.” I pause to enjoy this moment. I’ve been around hundreds of women—maybe thousands—but none compares to the woman standing before me. Those eyes and that smile are like a kick in the chest. This is so new to me, and the emotions so clear and fresh, I have a new appreciation for my sobriety. Pleasure and pride sink into me in a new way, and I feel the effect all the way to my marrow. I believed there was nothing left of me after Dash died, but the effect of Savi’s nearness is proof you can breathe new life into bone dust.

“Speaking of Gigi …” I scan the room. “Where is she?”

“Sam picked her up a few minutes ago. He took her to Cora’s for me.”

“I didn’t realize he’d been here already. I was hoping to see her.”

Curiosity tips her head. “You sound disappointed.”

“I am, I guess.”

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