Page 49 of Dream with Me

A rogue tear slips down my cheek, and Shyley reaches across the table and takes my hand.

I nod vehemently. “I-I’m okay. Sorry. I’m emotional with my tests coming up. I’ve worked hard for this. I’ve... I’ve given up a lot for it.”

Tillie nods, her features soften in understanding. “I have full confidence in you, Shannon. I’ve been doing this for a while now, and you’re the brightest and most dedicated woman I’ve met in a while. Plus, you’re a beast. Scheduling the review course and four tests over eight days is alot. But I honestly believe you’ve got this.” She tosses her arm around me and gives my shoulder a supportive squeeze.

“Thanks.” My voice comes out squeaky. “I’m starting to think maybe I was a bit overzealous in my scheduling.”

Tillie waves her free hand at me nonchalantly. “Nah, it can be done. Worse case, you take a section over. I failed my tax section the first time. Tell anyone that, and I’ll never forgive you.” She winks at me. “Plus, if you have to retake any sections, your new business partner will be understanding and make sure you have the study time you need.”

Her face shows no hint of her kidding. My eyes widen. “Seriously? Are we gonna do this?”

Tillie grins. “Hell, yes, we are! I wasn’t going to tell you this until your first test was done, but I scheduled an appointment to see that property I told you about. I know the realtor who’ll be handling it, and he’s getting us a sneak peek.”

“Holy cow, Tills! I’m so excited. I promise you won’t regret taking a chance on me.”

Tillie swats at the air. “Please, girl. We’re taking a chance on each other. I, for one, could not be more thrilled.”

My sister smiles, looking back and forth between Tillie and me.

“Aw, Shan. I’m so proud and happy for you. But”—she gives Tillie an exaggerated evil eye—“remember, she already has a best friend. Me. So, don’t be trying to steal my bestie.”

Tillie tosses her hands up in a mock defensive gesture. “We’ll see, spin witch. We shall see.”

I chuckle. “Okay, okay. No need to fight over me. A simple arm-wrestling match can settle this.”

We have fun ribbing each other and laughing. But when the laughter settles, Shyley’s face suddenly falls serious.

“Are you sure that’s all, sweetie? The test coming up, I mean.” Shyley’s in big sister mode now.

I sniffle and nod. “Yeah. That, plus I don’t know how to talk to Troy now that we’ve had sex again.”

Shyley gasps. “What?”

At the same time, Tillie, who’d been taking a sip of her wine, chokes on it and snorts as it comes flying out her nose.

“Did I forget to mention that part?” I ask, infusing as much innocence into my voice as I can muster.

CHAPTER27

SHANNON

“Oh my gosh, why did I let you talk me into ice cream for dinner?” I moan as my belly feels like it’s ready to pop.

Olivia grins. “You have to get used to it, Mom. Practice makes perfect. We should do this once a week.”

I chuckle. “I’m pretty sure your doctor would have an issue with me feeding you kids ice cream for dinner on the regular.”

I reach across the couch and pull Olivia into a hug.

“Thanks for tonight, Mom. I liked hanging out, just us.”

I kiss her on top of her head and release her. “Me, too, Livvy. I’ve missed this. I’m sorry we’ve gone so long without a girl’s night. I’ll try to be better about it.”

Damn, mom guilt.

“Ma, don’t do that, ‘kay?” Olivia’s giving me a stern look.

“Do what?” I’m legitimately confused.

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