Page 52 of Forever Home

“Jesus!” Sam and Kylie exclaim at the same time. Sam’s laughter fills the room as Kylie tries to pretend she didn’t hear anything by shoving more fries into her mouth. It was conversations like this that made me miss them, even when they are in front of me. Because I know deep down, eventually they will be gone living their lives with the men they love.

While I’m here, just trying to get laid.

Sam lets out a soft sigh as silence fills the room. Her eyes drift towards her phone, as she pushes the power button watching it light up. “I miss him…”

Thehimshe is referring to is Asher. He’s been back in Chicago for a while now for training since the season will be starting soon, and though she’s been back and forth a few times to see him, it’s clear that she doesn’t like the distance. Not that I can blame her, I wouldn’t either.

“Don’t,” I say firmly, her eyes meeting mine as Kylie looks between the two of us. “Don’t let yourself be consumed by it, Sam. You will see him again soon. In the meantime, you get to spend more time with us. Especially since you’re in New York more often with work.”

This brings a smile to her lips as she lets out a heavy breath and nods in agreement. “You’re right.

“I’m sorry…” I reply, glancing at them both. “I don’t think I heard you correctly… what was that?”

“I said!” she exclaims in an overdramatic tone causing Kylie to laugh. “You’re right.”

Her words cause a smile to spread wide across my face. “I am, aren’t I?”

“So, what’s everyone doing tonight?” Kylie pipes up, as I lean back in my chair.

“I’ve got some paperwork to finish,” Sam sighs. “It’s never-ending.”

“I get that,” Kylie replies. “I’ve got contracts to look over for this new project.”

Hearing how busy both of them are makes me slightly happy that I spend my time in the kitchen. It means I don’t have to do paperwork. At least not like Kylie and Sam. Granted, this place is my mom’s, but it’s mine as well. My place of sanctuary. The only place where I don’t have to worry about things hurting me. Unless you account for the occasional burn mark from the oven. Otherwise, I’m safe here.

“Well, I have a hot date.”

Their eyes dart to me, curiosity filling their gaze.

“With who?” Sam asks, leaning forward.

“His name’s Tate. He owns a construction company in the next town over. I started messaging him yesterday after we matched and he asked me to grab a bite to eat. I guess he’s in town for something and figured that he would get to know me while he’s here.”

“Are you going to sleep with him, too?” Kylie asks, making me swat at her as we break into laughter once more.

“No! Jesus, woman. I’m not a hoe. The only reason I slept with Alex was one too many Sangrias and a dry spell that desperately needed to end.”

“Just make sure you’re safe,” she replies. “There are a bunch of weirdos out there.”

It’s always like Kylie to look out for everyone. Her sweet, caring demeanor is one of her most unique qualities and honestly, I think it’s exactly what captivated Dante.

“I will,” I reply, lifting my arm to show off my muscles. “I’m stronger than I look.”

“Sure you are,” Sam replies, shaking her head. “Hey, by the way… isn’t filming supposed to be starting soon?”

I can’t help but freeze at her question. My smile falls as my mind trails back to Jaxson and the fact that I hadn’t heard from him in months.Filming was indeed to start soon. Hell, in a few days actually. The film crew were already in town, and have been by to see my mom and I. But Jaxson is nowhere to be found. Not that I should be bothered by that.

“Uh, yeah,” I reply hesitantly. “In a few days actually.”

Kylie frowns as Sam raises a brow. “Wait, then where’s Jaxson?”

“Yeah, where is Jaxson?” Kylie says, repeating Sam’s question.

Just as I open my mouth, the door to the bakery opens and who should appear… but Jaxson.

“Speak of the devil, himself,” Sam replies, leaning back in her chair with a smile. “Where have you been? I was just asking Madi when filming was supposed to start.”

He’s silent, his hazel eyes catching mine as he stands staring at me. The door slowly closes behind him. It’s as if the happiness and fun that was flowing between Kylie, Sam, and I had disappeared and quickly was replaced by tension so thick, you could cut it with a knife.

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