Page 59 of Love Her

“You have got to be kidding me.”

“Hello, Ashton. Can I help you with something?”

“Where is Loretta?”

Taking a deep breath, I round the counter and approach her carefully. Ashton Strauss is a little like one of those yipping dogs. She’s petite and barks a lot. I’ve always wondered how she and Piper became friends, and stayed friends, considering they are polar opposites. Where Ashton is loud and aggressive, her best friend is quiet and so sweet you’re likely to get a cavity standing in her personal space.

“My mom is home sick. I’m covering for her today. I’m sure I can help you with whatever you need.”

Narrowing her eyes, she tilts her head assessing me. I’m used to it. Ashton and I were friends once upon a time. We all were. Running around the playground, giggling at the silly boys like little girls do. Then over the course of one summer, I changed. We all changed but I thought I was better. I wanted to be more.

“I’ve heard rumors about you.”

Of course she has. Who knows what those are? Maybe I’ve run over a kitten or scolded an elderly person. Sky’s the limit with rumors in a small town. Taking the dresses Dakota didn’t choose, I move around Ashton and return them to their racks.

“What rumors are those?” I ask, my voice holding zero emotion. Untrue. It conveys boredom. Maybe if she thinks she’s boring me she’ll leave.

“Don’t think you can date Connor and worm your way into our good graces.”

“Excuse me?” She did not go there.

Stepping into my space she says, “I know you’re spending time with Connor. He’s a good guy. So whatever game you’re playing with him, stop it.”

This is when I should walk away. When I remind myself to not engage and start a fight. But like any other time I see her, I can’t help myself. Something about Ashton pulls the darkness out of me. Maybe I’m jealous of her. I am jealous of her. She’s independent, strong, well-liked in this town, and from what I can see a great wife, mom, and friend. I failed on so many of those fronts, but I’m trying to fix at least one. When it comes to being a mom, I hope my efforts are working.

“You’d like that wouldn’t you? For me to be doing this as some sort of ulterior motive?”

Scoffing, she rolls her eyes and crosses her arms over her chest. “Aren’t you?”

“Yes, I am. That’s what you want me to say, right? I’m using Connor. God he’s a beast in bed and the way he takes me out and pays for everything. It’s exactly what I’ve been missing out on. He’s even good with my kids, which is great because once they like the kids you have the hook.”

Ashton’s expression changes, her brow quirking, a satisfied smirk on her face. So what if I just spewed nothing but lies. I don’t think any of that. I know Connor is a wonderful man and he makes me feel special. He treats my children and everyone he encounters like they matter. Connor Hall is the type of man you fall in love with. He is the type of man I’m falling for.

I’m so wrapped in my own head, I don’t hear that annoying bell. I realize the words I’ve said are being taken as gospel. What I do hear is the chime again. What I see is Connor exiting the store.

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