Page 151 of Surprisingly Us

“Mom—” I start but she interjects.

“As your mom, I wondered if I should be concerned about his past relationships, or lack thereof, and how quickly you’re moving, but then I saw a photo of you two from the Leg-Up community day and it all made sense.”

My eyes snap to her face. “What made sense?”

“How much Rhys adores you. He looks at you like you’re his whole world, and you appear to be as in love with him as he is with you.”

Her words stun me into silence.

“Seeing you with Rhys, knowing you’re in love and happy, made telling you about the divorce both harder and easier. I didn’t want you to second-guess your relationship because mine and your father’s is over, but also knowing you have a partner you can lean on during this difficult time has been reassuring.”

Me and Rhysin love? It’s what we’ve been working to convince everyone of so the foundation board would take him seriously. I should be happy that we’ve managed to convince my mom as well. With a renewed sense of hope dancing in her eyes, there’s no way I can tell her none of it is real now.

We watch the sunset in contented silence, then return to the house with our empty wine glasses.

Later, while I’m lying in bed, Hannah texts me.

Hannah:I’ve been thinking about you today. If you need me there, just say the word.

She’d offered to come when I told her about this weekend, but I know she and James have a wedding to attend tomorrow, so I insisted she not.

Hannah:I barely even know the couple. It’s James’s boss’s daughter. I’m there if you need me. Just say the word!

I laugh out loud at her insistence.

Colette:It sounds like you’re trying really hard to get out of this wedding.

Hannah:Just want to be there for my bestie.

Colette:I appreciate you. Have fun tomorrow and I’ll call you when I get back.

Hannah:I love you!

Colette:Love you too

I’m about to plug my phone in when it buzzes again. It’s a text from Rhys.

I turn out the lamp but settle back into my bed.

Rhys:How was today?

Before I can respond, he sends another text.

Rhys:That’s a stupid question. I know it must have sucked.

Lettie:It was hard. My dad’s coming tomorrow. It’s going to be weird.

Rhys:I’m sorry. I don’t know what to say. Maybe this will make you smile?

An image comes through. It’s a picture of Maxine and Mo both fighting for space on Rhys’s lap. Maxine, the clear winner, is curled up squarely on his lap, while Mo is hanging halfway off, but still happy to be near them both.

I smile at the photo, then type out a response.

Colette:You made your own cat meme. And it did make me smile, so mission complete.

Rhys:I love your smile. Send me a pic.

I snap a selfie with me smiling, then send it to him.

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