Page 9 of Gator's Gambit
In the car, I message Godric.
Me: Heading home now. Let me know when you’re on your way?
Godric: I’ll leave now. Meet you there.
Me: Ok. See you shortly.
Not the most riveting conversation, but a frisson of excitement shivers up my spine at the thought of spending some time with him this morning. I have no idea what errands he needs to run or how long it’ll take. I’m simply happy to get to spend that time with him, just the two of us. It’s rare that I get to do that. There’s usually at least one other person around.
My rush of anticipation would appear juvenile to others, I’m sure, but frankly I don’t care.
Godric’s just pulling up to the house as Mama turns into the drive, and my heart skips a beat at the sight of the man. He’s obviously showered recently as his hair’s still wet. The images that thought offers up are sinful, but oh so delicious that I have to press my thighs together. I feel my cheeks heat and am grateful Mama can’t read my mind.
“Good morning, ladies,” Godric says as we climb out of the car.
“Good morning,” Mama and I reply at almost the same time.
Grinning over at him, I feel the mantle of fear and worry that’s been my constant companion for months lift, and mymood right along with it. I know it won’t last – it’ll be here, waiting for me once he drops me back home. For now, though, I intend to enjoy every last second of it.
Mama gives me a one arm hug on my uninjured side, bussing my cheek. “Have a lovely morning, sweetheart. I’ll see you two kids later.” Turning to Godric, she continues, “Take care of my sweet girl, okay?”
“Yes, ma’am.” He gives her that killer grin that’s made my heart flutter since we were children – yeah, that’s how long he’s been slaying the ladies with its charm – and Mama is no exception.
“Bye, Mama. Love you. See you later.”
“Love you too.” From her vantage point on the porch, she waves us off.
“So, what’s on today’s agenda?”
“I need to collect some things for Mama from Walmart in New Bern since they don’t have it here, collect her photos at our Walmart, and then I thought we could grab a bite to eat somewhere. I haven’t eaten a thing yet this morning. Unless you’ve already got plans for later?”
“Because, of course, my social calendar is just chock-a-block packed with activities in the thriving metropolis of Havelock,” I tease, cracking up at the idea, because San Francisco it ain’t.
Godric shakes his head, laughing at me. “Well, in that case, how about you choose where you’d like to go for lunch. My treat.”
“What about Chubby’s Cubby in New Bern? I haven’t had one of their burgers in forever.”
“Yeah, me either now that you mention it. Sounds like a plan. Let’s do it.” His phone rings right then, and he connects via the vehicle’s handsfree kit. “Soren.”
“Hey Gator, long time no hear, buddy.” The voice on the other end is deep and smooth.
“Dutch, my man. How’s it going?”
“Yeah, good. More to the point though, how are you doing? How’s the shoulder?”
“I’m great, thanks. Mama’s relishing the opportunity to spoil me – I’m gonna need extra PT to shake the pounds.” His laughter fills the small car. “Shoulder’s good. Doc’s happy with the progress. I start physio when I get back. So yeah, good all ‘round.”
“And when do you get back? We miss your ugly mug around here.”
My attention snagged on the mystery of “the shoulder”, so I miss the rest the conversation as I contemplate what it’s about.
“Earth to Fancy. Paging Fancy Gilmore. You still with me?”
“Hmm?” I reply.
“Woman, where are you? I’ve been talking to you, and you’ve not heard a word.”
“Sorry, my bad. I got a little lost in my head. What’s wrong with your shoulder?” I blurt the words out, the filter in my brain malfunctioning. The moment they’re out, I want to cut my tongue out. The look on his face tells me it’s a touchy subject.
