Page 68 of Love Her

My pulse slows when she says the word “angry.” This isn’t because someone is injured. It’s because I may be angry. Which must mean she saw the news.

“I saw the news, Mom. I’m fine. Well, not fine. Confused is more like it. I’m sure there’s about to be a shit storm of things to deal with because of Michael. Please don’t let the kids see anything. I’ll be home soon and once I can figure out what is happening, I’ll talk to them.”

“Okay, honey. Drive safe.”

Ending the call, I look down at the screen. My contact list isn’t long, and I tend to speak to the same three people. When my eyes land on Connor’s name, I fight the urge to tap “call.” I lied to my mom. I’m not fine. I’m freaking out.

So much has happened today, and my head is spinning. I know his voice would calm me. He would assure me everything will be fine. He’d stand beside me and help me figure everything out. Before. All of that would have happened before. Before he misunderstood what Ashton and I were talking about. Even with the misunderstanding, he wrote me off so easily. He didn’t fight for us. He didn’t let me explain. He ghosted me. Cut me out of his life.

Still, I can’t help myself and open our text conversation.

Me: Thank you for helping Jacob tonight.

I don’t expect a response and move to toss the phone in my purse when it chimes.

Connor: You’re welcome.

It isn’t a declaration of love but it’s something.

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