Page 15 of On My Side
I’m in my office at the inn early on a Monday, when an email arrives from Hunter Cleary. She and Jo Quinn—Ren’s oldersister—were vendors for the almost-wedding that was supposed to be hosted at the inn until it went to shit. Hunter emailed me two weeks ago to tell me she and Jo were opening an event planning firm in Port Haven. They’d been together for like two weeks. It was the most precious—and gayest— thing I’d ever seen.
I like Jo and Hunter, and I love their vision, so I offered office space for them at a discounted rate. We also discussed the inn being a featured, preferred vendor, which could be huge for business.
Ding.
I do a double take when I look at the computer screen and see another email in my inbox, one from Lorenzo Quinn.
From:Lorenzo Quinn
To:Audrey Hinton
I found your email address on the inn’s website. I hope it’s okay to contact you this way.
I wanted to tell you I’m impressed by and proud of Piper’s progress. I can tell she’s dedicated and practicing frequently, and teaching her reminds me of why I love what I do.
I’ve noticed you haven’t stopped by for any lessons, and was curious if I could do anything to make you more comfortable? I think it would mean a lot to Piper, and it would mean a lot to me, too.
Next month, there’s a concert at Yale I think Piper would really enjoy. I don’t want to tell her about it until I get your permission to take her, or if you would want you can tag along? I think immersive experiences like that would be beneficial for her.
I also want to offer additional lessons if Piper wants, and again, check with you first before telling her. I’m not sure if she told you, but she’s decided her goal for the summer is to master “Clair de Lune.” It’s a complex piece, but I think with her tenacity and dedication, she can do it. It might be helpful to have a second lesson every week for her to complete this goal (no charge, of course).
Thanks for your time, and for letting me hang out with your kid.
Lorenzo Quinn (he/him)
I feel a myriad of emotions as I read the email. Shame, because he’s right. I haven’t stopped by. It’s not that I’m uncomfortable with him. It’s just that…fuck. I don’t want to face the past. I don’t want to risk being found out and having all my hard work go to shit.
But, what if Piper thinks I’m staying away because of her?
I take a deep breath and hit reply.
From:Audrey Hinton
To:Lorenzo Quinn
Subject: Re: Piper’s progress and a few questions
Hi Ren,
Correct me if my memory’s wrong, but didn’t we exchange phone numbers?
Ren,
Why did we exchange phone numbers if you were just going to email me?
Mr. Q,
Haha I forgot your name was actually Lorenzo. Does your mom still use it when you’re in trouble?
I groan and close my mailbox before putting my head in my hands. Why can’t I be normal with this man? It’s just a little crush.
“Mom?” I jump when I see Piper in the doorway. Shit, she was supposed to be babysitting today.
“Hey, birdie,” I say shakily, glancing towards the clock. “You’re home early.”
