Page 108 of Starting Over

“As good as expected. But he didn’t try to talk me into coming home, so I’m counting that as a win.”

“So you’re staying?”

“Yea.”

“I’m happy for you, Mom. I mean, it sucks you’re not here. But I’m glad you’re happy.”

“Thanks, sweetheart.” I wiped at a tear that slipped down my cheek. “Hey, I got a dog.”

“Really?”

“Yea. A friend just brought him over and dropped him off. He’s amazing. He’s so sweet and gentle, but he’s protective. He’s just perfect.” Tucker had laid his head on my lap, and I stroked his fur while I talked to my daughter.

We finished our talk and said our goodbyes. I missed her terribly, but I was glad I made the move. I was happy I had chosen something for me.

I sat for a few minutes in the cold December night, when Tucker started to growl low in his throat. Suddenly, his headlifted and his ears pinned back. His growl got louder, and I sat frozen on the front step.

“Hey.”

I jumped, my hand going to my chest. Tucker stood, baring his teeth at the intruder. I turned my head, my hand still over my racing heart, and saw Declan.

“Easy, Tucker.” I ran my hand over his head, and he sat, but continued to growl softly.

Declan moved a little closer, and Tucker growled a little louder.

“Uh, you want to help me out here?”

With a heavy sigh, I held out my hand for his. “Friend,” I said, holding Declan’s hand for Tucker to sniff. When my heart rate settled down, so did Tucker. He laid back down at my side, his head in my lap.

“Dinner’s ready.”

“Ok.”

Neither of us moved until he sat down beside me.

“I’m sorry about the other day. I never should have compared you to Beck’s mom. You two couldn’t be more different.”

“Can you tell me about her?”

Shaking his head he said, “Not tonight. Tonight is for celebrating.”

He stood up and held his hand out to me.

“Come on. It’s freezing out here.”

Looking up at him, I hesitated. He lifted a brow, and I gave in. Placing my hand in his, I let him pull me to my feet. His eyes roamed over my face for a moment, before he let go of my hand and opened the door, letting me enter before him.

Tucker followed right behind me, and I looked around the room at the tables. Making a decision for myself, I walked away from Declan and sat next to Banshee. Tucker laid on the floor at my feet and went to sleep while we ate dinner.

Trying not to look was futile, and I noticed multiple times that Declan was watching me as I ate and talked with Banshee and the others sitting at our table.

When dinner was over, I helped the girls clean up the kitchen before saying my goodbyes. I loved being in my house at night. Sitting on the couch with my kindle, the only light coming from my screen and the fireplace.

It was quiet and cozy.

And it was mine.

Tucker began to growl, and I looked at the front door. The knock was loud, and it made Tucker jump from the couch and stand in front of the door.

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