Page 63 of I'm Yours

“Mom!”

“Do I speak truth?”

“Still. I don’t ever need you commenting on my sex life.”

“Why not? We’re all adults. We already told you how much better our sex life is since I’ve been taking pole dancing classes.”

I gag and cover my mouth.

“Let’s stop talking.”

“Fine. Just go let your father in. He was worried this morning when you didn’t text him to let him know whether or not Sadie was safe.”

“She’s safe. House is fine. I think whoever was dumb enough to try to break in was scared off by the motion sensors.”

“Good. Dad is taking a closer look with the police to see if they can find out who it was.”

I nod even though she can’t see me and move out of the bedroom, making my way back down the hallway I carried Sadie down just a few hours ago. I pause when I hear Dad’s deep voice carry down the hallway.

“I’ll talk to him about it now and we’ll take a look around outside.”

“Okay. Just keep an eye on our girl. Your dad would never admit it, but I think part of the reason he installed those cameras was so he could make sure she was safe. We hate that she’s all alone.”

“Probably. But I don’t think you’re giving her enough credit. Sadie’s definitely capable of taking care of herself.”

“I know that. Still doesn’t stop a mother from worrying.”

A mother. Not her own. Mine. Who thinks of Sadie as her own. Damn if that doesn’t make my heart clench a bit.

“I’m glad she’s had you.”

“I’m glad you never minded us being a part of her life. Very telling, Reed. And just to say, I loved Katherine and miss her but if you decide to carry this further with Sadie, your father and I would be very happy with that. But, your daughter won’t hear about a budding relationship from us. That’s for you to tell Emmy when you and Sadie are ready.”

“Mom, I don’t even know what it is yet. Don’t put pressure on either of us. I didn’t expect last night to happen.”

“You mean to tell me that you didn’t expect to fall into bed with her when you went to her house in the middle of the night?”

“Mom…” I sigh but she’s not done.

“You’ve loved her since you were fourteen. I know you loved Katherine and your marriage was a wonderful one. But Sadie is your true love.”

“Katherine hasn’t even been gone a year,” I remind her.

“Is there a time restraint for your heart? Give yourself some grace. It’s not as if Sadie is some woman you met online or in a bar. She’sSadie. There’s history between you two and that means more than a date on the calendar.”

I let her words settle in and can’t help but agree. There’s a part of me that has always loved Sadie. Just like a part of me will always love Katherine. And maybe there’s nothing wrong with that.

“Thanks, Mom. Is Emmy done brushing her teeth yet? I’d like to tell her good morning.”

“Of course. She just came down the stairs.” There’s a pause before, “Emmy! Your daddy’s on the phone. Come say hi before I take you to school.”

“Thanks, Mom. I’ll see you soon.”

“No rush, honey. Love you. Here’s Emmy.”

“Hi, Daddy!”

I smile and walk out to the kitchen where Dad and Sadie are sitting around the table both sipping on coffee. “Hi, baby girl. How’d you sleep?”

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