Total pages in book: 60
Estimated words: 55171 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 276(@200wpm)___ 221(@250wpm)___ 184(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 55171 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 276(@200wpm)___ 221(@250wpm)___ 184(@300wpm)
“The night Griff rescued me from a nightmare I allowed to be created.” I open my eyes, feeling calmer.
“And there you have it. Heartache is hard, sweetheart. But missing out on love is worse,” Mom says, putting her arms around me, hugging me. I also realize maybe my mom has been through a broken heart that was far worse than when my dad walked out on us without a backwards glance. The only thing I don’t know is when or how it happened. My whole life growing up, Mom was adamant about not bringing men around when I was home. A few dates here and there when I was in high school was all I heard. In a small town, it’s near impossible. Unless this is a recent development.
“Mom, you’re allowed to find love, too, you know.” I blink back the tears, worried she’s put her whole life on hold for me. I’m old enough now, twenty-four years old to be exact. Dad has been gone since I was eight. It’s time for her to find her happily ever after.
“I know. Tell that to Aunt Cat. She’s the one who can’t find a man she likes. I’m learning it’s time for me to start living again. It’s hard when your identity has been a mom and a workaholic for so long.” I squeeze her tighter, more for myself than for her. She’s given me absolutely everything a daughter could ask—any sport I wanted to try, and any time I needed extra help in a subject, she helped or found a tutor. Now the sham of a wedding she probably worked overtime to pay for, damn it. I’m going to make sure she’s paid back, no matter what. Even if that means picking up new clients, working longer hours, or asking Griff if he needs help waitress a couple of nights a week.
“I love you, Mom, thank you.” She has no idea what I’m grateful for at this point in time. One day soon, I’ll make sure she knows.
“I love you, too.” We pull back from out hug. “Okay, let’s get this place cleaned up and get my girl out of here. I want to treat you to lunch. Next week, you’ll be back at work, and these random days and spending time with you will come to an end.”
“Oh, just you hush. I want in on the hug.” Aunt Cat comes up behind me, grabs both of Mom’s shoulders, and hugs us while smooshing me between the two of them. We all laugh, kind of like old times.
“I say it’s time we get Aunt Cat out in the dating world. Know of any eligible bachelors?” Aunt Cat talks in third person.
“Dear God, the woman has more men after her than she can keep up with. Last week, one was pounding at the door because your aunt forgot it was date night!” Mom exclaims. Aunt Cat is like Blanche from Golden Girls. There’s no man too old or too young for her. Plus, she’s all about the free love and orgasm life. Yes, I’m aware I know entirely too much about my aunt, but she enjoys sharing with the class or the town. Whichever listens more. God love the man who finally ties her down.
“Aunt Cat! Did you forget your little pink calendar?” We break away from one another. I pick up my feather collection and put it back in the box. My fingers slide over the brown- and white-spotted feather, being careful. It really is one of the favorites in the group. It could be because of Griff or the uniqueness to it. Right now, I’m not completely sure, and that’s okay.
“She did not. You know Cat doesn’t leave that thing anywhere.” Mom blows out a huff of air. Exaggerating the story is coming next.
“Well, actually, I didn’t forget about him. He wasn’t my type. My thought was maybe your mom would go out with the guy instead. That backfired when she went to her room, locked the door, and wouldn’t come out.” Aunt Cat acts like she’s put out by this fact.
“I’m not going on a date with your second choice. And I’ll have both of you know, I have a date tomorrow night.” I squeal in excitement, happy for my mom.
“Oh my gosh, I’m so happy for you, Mom!” I’d offer to touch up her hair, but we just did that last week. That leaves her with finding an outfit, makeup, and to tame her beautiful waves in the summer humidity.
“The wheels are turning, aren’t they? I can see it in your eyes. I’m good, Stormy. I’ve already got everything picked out, and if my hair doesn’t cooperate, then fuck it.” She’s a damn mind reader. I nod anyways, wanting her to continue. Cleaning is going to be put to the side. Finally, my mom is doing something for herself, and I am freaking ecstatic.