Page 25 of Chasing Sunrise

“When?”

“Last night and today.”

She set down the bowl of dip and put her hands on her hips. “How did you know which book to read?”

“It wasn’t rocket science, Mom. You left it on the coffee table.”

“You read the whole thing?”

“Yes.” It’d been good to sit down with Zack, Sadie, Dre, and Quinn. They’d talked about regular life things, thankfully taking his mind off the media circus around his life. After lunch, Zack and Sadie left for a benefit, Dre and Quinn went to visit her grandparents, and upon the suggestion of Zack, Kasey stayed at their house and quickly read the book.

“What’s your angle?” She spied him suspiciously.

“No angle. I genuinely want to discuss the book.”

Her eyes squinted as she studied him.

“I’ve joined book club. Numerous times.”

“Only when I challenged you to do it. Like when we readCodes, the book on conspiracy theories.”

“You made all of us participate in that one. Even Dad.”

She smirked. “Your father is so gullible. I wanted him to read about conspiracy theories and realize they’re not reliable.”

“You weren’t successful.”

“No.” She laughed. “He still believes Elvis is alive.” She scrutinized Kasey again. “Are you joining for Amanda? She told me she drove you home last night.”

“I’m not going from one failed relationship to another. I’m taking a break from women.”

“Yet, you read a book to specifically put yourself in the company of at least ten women tonight.”

“You used to have men in the club,” he answered defensively.

“Still do. Something tells me you’re not attending for them.”

“I’m attending for me. I need to do something to take my mind off the reality of my life. The news footage is on repeat everywhere. I hate that Darcy has been out front running off news crews.”

“Whatever your reason for wanting to attend book club, we’ll be glad to have you.” She scooped up a bowl of chips and went into the dining room.

He’d never admit to his mother he’d read the book in hopes of interacting with Amanda again. Spending time with her last night, he was struck by her kindness. How she’d ordered him food and gave him a ride home. The night could’ve been horrible, and parts of it were bad, but she’d made it bearable. She’d calmed him.

No, that wasn’t the right word.

She’d quieted the world for him. Even with the loud bar music blaring, his mind quieted while he talked and played pool with her. His rage lessened. He hadn’t lied to his mom, he wasn’t ready for another relationship, yet he liked the comfort Amanda brought him.

~

With a proper Tai Chibow, Amanda thanked Marisol before they stepped from the sunroom. “Can we do this again?”

Marisol nodded. “You let me know when you’d like another lesson.”

“By the way,” Amanda said conspiratorially. “Your uncle is wrong. You’re a super teacher.”

“I know,” she said. Not in a boastful way, more in a matter-of-fact tone.

The two trekked back across the lawn and into the kitchen. “Bye, Amanda.” Marisol ran through the kitchen and yelled, “Papa Rafe, I’m ready.”

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