Page 65 of Beautiful Storm

“No. Not happening. Have you forgotten everything I said about our past?”

“Nope, but that was in high school. People change.”

“Okay, let's say we consider the present Luke instead of the past Luke. He’s still a well-publicized playboy.”

“I can’t argue with that. But you said yes?”

I let out a long sigh. “I did. His arguments made sense and then he said he wanted to protect us both. Not just the baby.”

“Wow.”

“I know.” I fall back onto my bed again and huff out a laugh. “But the car is my problem. That’s not related to his baby.”

“Seems related to me but I’ll shut up. What happens now?” I’m about to argue when Hayley’s tone turns serious. “I mean because you’re still technically married and well, I didn’t think you could stand each other. Although, that seems to be changing.”

“We’re keeping things quiet until my divorce is finalized and then I’m not so sure.” I ignore her comment about us changing.

“Well, I’m here for you. You know that, right?”

“I do and it means the world to me, because, Hayley, I have no idea what the hell I’m doing.” I run a hand down my face and squeeze my eyes shut, willing my heart to stop racing.

“We’ll work it out. I’m happy to play mum with you. But I refuse to be a ‘Mom’; I still can’t wrap my head around that. Mom. Mom. Mom. Nope, it is and will always be Mum.”

“What you’re saying sounds exactly the same.”

“No, it doesn’t. Listen carefully. Mom. Mum. Mom. Mum.”

“It’s the same.”

“Fine, you say them.”

“Mom. Mum.” It’s weird to say Mum, but when it comes out of my mouth, I hear the difference. “Okay. You win. Guess that will make it easier for the baby. It can call me Mom and you Mum.”

“Deal. But I hate saying ‘it.’ Can you and Luke come up with a nickname?”

“I’ll add it to my list.” I laugh.

“Good.”

“Can we catch up this week? I could use a girls’ night.”

“Absolutely. I’ve got my callback audition on Thursday and—”

“What? Hayley, that’s amazing. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because I was worried I’d jinx it. But now I’m thinking I need to take the manifesting approach.”

“Oh yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Congratulations! You got the role. I’m so proud of you.”

Hayley laughs before cutting herself off. “Thank you. I’m going to be amazing in it. That Academy Award is mine.”

“Damn straight.”

“So, Thursday night then, to celebrate properly.”

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