Page 68 of Hold You Close
“Is it true that boys are mean to you when they like you? I mean, we know Uncle Ian is mean to you because he’s dumb, but are they all dumb?”
“Who’s being mean to you?” I ask quickly, my hackles raised.
I’m not a mom but these tiny people are like my kids. I may not have birthed them but I’ve been around since their mom pushed them out. So, they’re mine.
“No one.” Morgan comes around and sits in front of me on the coffee table. “It’s just this boy I like is always such a jerk. He makes fun of me sometimes, and then when his friends aren’t around, he tells me I’m pretty.”
Of all the people who she should ask for advice, I’m not the best choice. I’m sort of destined to be a spinster with a cat named after her favorite singer. My life choices regarding love haven’t really been stellar.
“Have you asked your uncle or brother?”
“Gross. No.”
I laugh. “Okay, well, they’re both boys. They probably know a little more about this than me.”
“They’re dumb.”
“This is true, but Morgan, your uncle was definitely mean to me and I think he likes me a lot.”
Her smile grows and she scrunches her shoulder. “I know. It’s so cute. He was stressing out so much about today. I really think he likes you.”
“My point is that sometimes we’re really mean to people we love because feelings can be so extreme.”
She leans forward, elbows resting on her knees and her head on her hands. “So you love him then?”
“I’m not talking to you about this.”
“Why not? Who am I going to tell? Besides, I think it’s great you guys are old and finding love again.”
“Watch it,” I warn.
“Tell me and I promise I won’t say anything.”
She’s so half-Sabrina—the devious half. I remember all too well the things she was able to get out of me because of conversations like this.
“It’s getting late and you need to get to bed.”
“Are you staying here tonight?” she asks.
I see right through this one too, Morgan.
“I am, but you know that’s because I would never leave you three in the house alone. Nice try, pumpkin.” I tap her nose with a smirk.
“Ugh. I hate when you call me that.”
“I know, but you’re so cute.”
“Whatever.” Morgan rolls her eyes. “I’m going to bed.”
“Goodnight, honey. Listen, if that boy isn’t able to be nice in front of others, then he’s not worth your time. People show you who they are when others are around. Know what I mean?”
Morgan nods. “I get it. Goodnight.”
She gives me a hug and then heads off.
All the kids are in their rooms and I feel very out of place. Do I go to his room? Do I get changed? This is so weird. I take a deep breath and head to Ian’s room. I’m likely to fall asleep and the last thing I want is him thinking I was on the couch because I didn’t want to be here. Which is its own problem since I really want to be here.
I want him.
