Page 82 of In The Game

I straighten the stack of papers and set them aside, placing a puck on top as a paperweight.

“I’m glad for it. You’re a great mom, Ral.”

“It doesn’t always feel that way, but I do the best I can. He deserves it.” Shouldering my purse, we walk out together.

“They say parenting is only hard for good parents.”

Huh, I never thought of it like that.I must be fucking terrific.

We finish at the athletic center and say our goodbyes. He wraps me in a big hug, and I lean into it, breathing in his scent.

THIRTY-ONE

After I get back in my car and see what time it is, I panic. I’m running late to pick up Arthur from daycare. The time I was going to use to get ready was just cut in half. I shoot a text off to Micky apologizing and letting her know I might be a little late.

Me: Sorry, I’m running a bit behind! Mind if we push it back to 6:30 instead?

Micky: Actually, I was going to text you. We are not getting together tonight. Rhys just told me you’re THE Raleigh.

Me: What do you mean THE Raleigh?

Micky: Runaway Raleigh! You’re Conway’s “one that got away.”

Is this one of those practical joke shows? It’s like everyone is conspiring to push us together. The butterflies in my stomach take flight. I gulp, unsure of how to respond.

Micky: I don’t know why I didn’t make the connection earlier. Rhys is locking me down tonight, I’m not allowed to go out with you. I’ve been grounded.

Me: Since when do you let a man boss you around?

Micky: Since Rhys.

Micky: And I agree with him on this one. I insist you use your babysitter to get laid.

Me: I’m not sleeping with my babysitter.

Micky: You know what I mean! He’s a good guy, too, Raleigh, and he’s obsessed with you. Jump on his dick and ride it until the sun comes up.

Me: Micky. Come on. Girls night!

Micky: You’ll thank me in the morning. Go put on something hot and have fun! You deserve it! We’ll get together soon, I promise!

Her messages replay in my head.“Runaway Raleigh.”On the way to the daycare center, I mentally scan through all the clothing I own. The black dresses I have are all professional and for work. Although, there is that one black body-contouring thing. It’s been a year since I’ve tried it on. The dress came recommended by a plus-size fashion blogger I follow. It was a gift to myself after getting a raise at work, but I’ve never had anywhere to wear it. It might not even fit anymore.

After picking up Arthur and getting some dinner on the table for him, Tabitha shows up, and I hustle to my bedroom to get ready.

Me: My plans got mysteriously canceled.

Barrett: How odd.

Me: Mmhmm.

Barrett: Look, normally, I wouldn’t do this, but I’m feeling sorry for you. Since you were such a big help today: yes, Raleigh, I will go out with you tonight even though it’s very last minute and I have an incredibly busy schedule.

Me: You’re ridiculous.

He responds almost immediately.

Barrett: I’ll pick you up in 30. Wear a dress.

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