Page 68 of Heart of The Night

‘Yes. Thank God.’

‘I’m so happy for you guys,’ I said, feeling an exhilarating warmth spreading through my whole system. ‘So what’s next, then? Are you going to start seeing each other?’

Nodding, she turned away and grabbed another glass from the cupboard, filling it with water. ‘That’s the plan. We’re going on a proper date on Friday.’ She returned to the table, setting the glass of water in front of me.

I murmured a quick thanks as she sat down opposite me. As I watched her, a wave of memories and thoughts washed over me. Seeing her so happy with Jason made me think of her past with Colin. Their relationship had been tumultuous, and I remembered the countless times she’d confided in me about their arguments and his unpredictable behaviour. I couldn’t help but wonder if she was truly ready to move on.

She seemed to notice the shift in my expression, as her eyebrows knitted together.

‘What is it?’ she asked gently, her concern evident.

I shook myself from my thoughts and gave her a reassuring smile. ‘I’m just thinking. It’s really great to see you this happy. You deserve it after everything with Colin.’

Her eyebrow quirked upward. ‘But?’

Sighing, I looked absentmindedly at my sandwich, taking a moment to find the right words. ‘Are you sure you’re ready for it?’ I asked, meeting her gaze again. ‘Dating, I mean?’

‘Yes.’ She reached over the table, clasping my hand tightly. ‘Cara, I would never have touched Jason if I wasn’t sure about that. He’s your best friend – I’d never use him as a rebound. Is that what you’re worried about? Because I could never hurt either of you like that.’ Her face was grave, her eyes full of conviction. ‘I genuinely fancy him, Cara.’

‘Good.’ I huffed with relief, squeezing her hand in return. ‘Then you have my blessing.’

‘Thank you.’ She leaned forward, her voice dropping to a whisper, ‘On another note, I just have to tell you this – he’s fucking fantastic in bed.’

My eyes widened in surprise. ‘Is he?’

‘Yes.’ She nodded repeatedly. ‘Best I’ve ever been with.’

‘No way!’ I giggled. ‘Maybe it’s a genetic thing, then.’

She grinned widely. ‘Maybe. He’s definitely got some moves that remind me of what you’ve said about William. Or maybe they’ve been exchanging tips.’

‘One way or another, we’re both winners.’ I raised my glass, and so did she. Then we clinked them together with a smug laugh.

As we set them back down, my phone rang from my bag in the hall. I glanced toward the sound, then back at Olivia.

‘Feel free to answer it,’ she said, standing up. ‘I’m going to join Jason for a nap.’

‘All right,’ I replied, getting up as well.

She gave me a warm smile as she headed toward Jason’s bedroom. I made my way to the hall, digging through my bag until I found my phone. The screen displayed Mum and I accepted the call, bringing the phone to my ear as I walked to my bedroom.

‘Hi, Mum.’

‘Hi, darling. How are you?’ she cooed as I closed the door behind me.

‘I’m good. Just got back from the gym.’

‘Did you manage a new PR?’

I chuckled. ‘Not today. Deload week.’

‘Translation?’

I sat on the edge of my bed, leaning back against the pillows. ‘It’s basically a phase of lowered intensity, giving my muscles a chance to recover without jeopardising my progress.’

‘Right. And how’s work? You’ve been so busy lately that I’ve wondered whether I ought to send you a postcard with a picture of home.’

I grimaced, feeling a pang of guilt. I hadn’t spent nearly enough time with my parents lately. I needed to get better at balancing my life and making sure I didn’t neglect the people who mattered most.

---