Page 53 of A Promise For Tomorrow

Hope you’re holding up okay, brother. Lex told me that you and Madison had a heart to heart last night. She isn’t coming back to AZ. We are packing up her stuff to be sent home. Just thought you’d like to know.

Liam

We did. It’s how it should be. I was foolish to think we stood a chance with Diego still in the picture. And putting my immediate jealousy aside, he’s the better choice for her. I can’t give Madison what Diego can. I’m too much of a protective prick. I can’t help it—especially around her.

Conor

And what of Lainey?

Liam

She and I need to talk. I want to take this slow. At our own pace. Maybe give the relationship more time to grow. But I promised Madison I would give it my all. So, I am going to try. Lainey has been extremely patient with me already. I just hope she’s willing to continue.

Conor

I’m sure she will. The lass has been head over heels for you since we were kids. Also, heads up, Lex and I agreed to do the Jack and Jill in Miami.

Liam

Lovely. It’s honestly a beautiful island. Spending time there last year was peaceful. You know Maddy and I will make sure it’s a great week for everyone.

Conor

Looking forward to it. I’ll see you in a few weeks when I get back. Gonna try to spend some quality time with my woman

I scrub my palms down my face. I need a fucking cigarette. I’m tempted to grab my pack and head out to the upper deck. Lainey’s beautiful face comes to mind, reminding me I was making healthier choices around her. She hates the smell of it,always reminding me. Which made cutting back a hell of a lot easier.

My thumb hovers over her contact in my favorites list. I select it, sliding the phone to my ear.

“Liam?” Her tentative voice fills the line.

“Hey, Lain. Are you gonna be home later?”

“Yeah, why? What’s up? Are you back already?” The excitement in her voice summons a smile to my lips.

“Yes. Just got back a little while ago. Would you be interested in a dine-in movie night with me? I’m fucking exhausted, but I miss you. I’d like to talk as well. I have a lot to get off my chest and you deserve to hear it.”

“Sure. I just have to bake some teething biscuits for Kian and then prep dinner. I’ll have Sarah finish up the rest for me. Did you want me to grab something sweet for later? I’m at the supermarket now.”

“You mean two pints of Ben and Jerry’s?”

“Mhm.” I can almost see her biting her lower lip.

“Hell yes. I’ll order us food from that little Italian restaurant we love with the sourdough bread. And I’ll make sure to get your favorite handmade gnocchi truffle alfredo.”

“Mmm… yes! That is my all time favorite. It’s a date… well if that’s what you want.” The uncertainty in her voice guts me.

“It’s an absolute date, Lain. Madison and I chose to go our separate ways, we just weren't fitting anymore.”

“Really?” Her voice raises an octave with hesitant excitement.

“Really,” I confirm.

“Wow. Okay, well I’ve got to run, I should be home soon. We can talk more tonight. I’m sorry it didn’t work out between you two, Liam. On the other hand, I’m also secretly thrilled. That’s awful, I know, but I was hoping we could get a real chance.”

“I know, lovely. I didn’t give us the proper chance to get off the ground. It was my fault. I’ve been the one keeping us here.I’m not holding back anymore, Lain. All I ask is for some patience. We go at a pace that feels comfortable.”

“I agree. See you in a bit.”

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