Page 105 of Love By The Falls

“It’s more than others have, and more than enough for me.”

She sighs. “You put on this brave front, but I know it’s difficult. You should ask Jason for help. He seems very interested in being there for you right now. I think he’s interested in getting back together. You should really think about giving that a try.”

I turn to look her in the eye. “Are you serious right now?”

“Yes. Why not?”

“Because he bailed on me when I needed him the most. He wasn’t here when Charlie was a baby, or a screaming toddler, or even a rambunctious child. Now that he’s more self-sufficient, he’s back. I don’t think so.”

“Don’t look at it that way. The past is the past. Jason’s here now. And well, that other man isn’t. He won’t be here for you. He’s not like us.”

My mind wanders as I watch Charlie toss the ball to my father. He pulls his elbow back and launches it at him.

Is it me? Do men find me attractive enough to sleep with but not enough to stick around for?It’s hard not to take it personally.

“I don’t know, Mom. It’s a lot right now, and yes, Jason is here now, but what’s his end goal? He hasn’t said anything to me. I’ve got Charlie to worry about, and now a new baby on the way. They’re my priority.”I rub my palm over my stomach. I’m in full-on maternity wear right now. Even though it’s just my belly that has grown, it is about the size of a soccer ball.

“I just don’t know how a smart, beautiful, and caring woman like you ends up with two children and no husband.”

I close my eyes and tighten my fingers around the humid glass. Her pity angers me because it echoes my earlier self-doubt, but hearing it from her motivates me more than anything I could have said to myself. “I don’t need a husband. I’ve done a great job with Charlie, and I’ll do the same for this little one.”

My mother reaches across the table and grabs my hand. “You’re doing great, honey.”

I nod, finally something we both agree on.

“But…”

I groan.

“Hear me out. If Jason wants to help, I wouldn’t turn him down. Think about it.”

“Fine. I’ll think about it.” Finishing my lemonade, I push off the patio chair. “I’ve got to run. Mrs. Jackson’s waiting for me.”

“Say 'hi' for me.”

“I will.”

The Jacksons live down the street from my parent’s house, but I take the car since I need to run errands after my tutoring session with Jacob.

The front door is open as usual, and I walk right in. “Hello! It’s Charlotte. Anybody home?”

Of course, there is, but it’s our usual routine.

Right on cue, Mrs. Jackson walks into the foyer, wearing a pink tracksuit. “Charlotte, honey. Come in, come in. It’s great to see you.”

“You, too. Is Jacob ready?”

“He is. He’s just grabbing his math book. Take a seat at the kitchen table. Can I get you anything?”

“I’m fine. I was just at my parent’s house having some lemonade.”

“Oh, how is your mother?”

“She’s good.”

Mrs. Jackson sits down beside me and pats my hand. “How are you, honey?” Her red lipstick clashes with her outfit, but it’s the only color she wears.

“I’m fine. Thank you for asking.”

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