Page 17 of Savage

“What? He was a really nice guy, and he gave me some really great advice on how to get the stains out of my tile.”

My dating life was a topic that I’d been trying to avoid since I got there. Not because I didn’t want to discuss it with her. I didn’t care about that. I knew I could talk to her about anything. I just didn’t know how to tell her that I wasn’t interested in getting back out there and dating again, so I tried playing it off. Sadly, it didn’t work.

“This isn’t a joke, Londyn.” She glanced over at Dalton as she fussed, “You have your son to consider.”

“I do consider him. I consider him every day. You know that.”

“You know what I mean.”

“I do, but it doesn’t matter. I’m not interested in dating right now,” I replied firmly, trying to make her understand.

“How long are you going to let Malcomb keep this hold over you?”

“This isn’t about Malcomb,” I fussed. “It’s about me and what I want.”

“Exactly... Don’t you want someone to share your life with?” Mom persisted. “You are still young. You have your whole life in front of you. I hate the thought of you living it alone.”

“I’m not alone. I have my friends, you and Dad, and Dalton,” I said, gesturing towards him. “That’s all I need right now.”

Dalton looked up from his sandwich and stared at me intently. I knew he was taking everything in, even though he was only four. He was a smart kid, and I didn't want him growing up thinking that he needed a man in his life to be happy.

Mom seemed to sense my hesitance and softened her tone.

“Okay, fine. I won’t say any more,” Mom sighed, looking defeated. “I just want you to be happy.”

“I know, and you’re sweet for worrying. But I’m good.” I motioned my head towards Dalton as I added, “We both are.”

Right on cue, Dalton looked up at Mom and gave her the biggest, cheesiest smile possible. I gave him a quick fist bump, then got busy eating my sandwich and chips. Once we were done with lunch, we cleaned up and took one last stroll. Dalton added a few shells to his collection, and then we headed back to the house.

Dalton was exhausted, so I put him in his room and turned on his favorite TV show. I made sure he was settled, then I went to my room and changed clothes. I was about to go put away everything from our picnic when my phone chimed with a message. I quickly grabbed it from my purse, and a smile crossed my face when I glanced down at the screen and saw that Skylar had messaged me.

Skylar:

Hey, stranger.

Me:

Hey! How’s the bride-to-be?

Skylar:

I’m good. Crazy busy with wedding stuff, but good.

I wanted to see when you were planning to come into town.

Me:

I’m already here.

I’m between cases, so I came a few days early to visit with the folks.

Skylar:

Perfect!

Some of the old crew is getting together on Friday, and it wouldn’t be the same without you.

Me:

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