Page 34 of Unexpected Adventures

“Thank you,” I say, blushing.

“Ready?” Denise asks.

“As I’ll ever be.”

****

We arrive back at Sherri’s and manage to make it upstairs without running in to Shaun.Denise puts the finishing touches of minimal make-up on me, and after going through my purse and a few drawers, she hands me a small shoulder bag.

“The essentials,” Denise says. “Your phone, of course, and your ID and debit card.Along with lip balm, a pack of gum, and a few condoms.”

“Condoms?”

“As you said, just in case.”

“Oh, dear.” I notice that it’s nearly five, and wonder when Shaun had planned on us leaving for whatever he has in mind for tonight. “Denise, you’re sure you don’t mind, because I could…”

“Hey, we had a great time together today and we’ll have tomorrow as well. This will be a great evening for you. Who knew coming down to visit me would end up with you meeting the person who could potentially be your soul mate?”

I roll my eyes, not really buying into that whole idea as my little sister does. But hey, if it makes her happy to think that way, then good on her.

“Why don’t you go down and sit on the patio? I’m sure Shaun will be around soon to find you.”

“What are you going to do this evening? Do you have plans with Jim? Should I have Shaun drop me off at your place later? But then what about my rental?”

“Abby, chill. You can decide that later once you see where the night leads. There’s a spare key to my place in your bag, just in case. Shaun may have plans to bring you back here for a romantic night. Or better yet, he may have booked a room somewhere where…”

I gasp, thinking he wouldn’t be so bold, would he? “No way!”

“It’s always a possibility. Now, quit fretting and go out to the patio. Have a beer.”

I shake my head at her suggestion. No, I don’t want to have a beer. I want my mind clear and focused. I really do want to have a great evening with Shaun.

“And,” Denise starts. “To answer your question, yes, I’m going to Jim’s and cooking him dinner. We’re going to play like an old married couple and just stay in to watch a movie. I’m pretty sure I’ll be spending the night, but I’ll text you to let you know.”

“Thanks, Denise. You two enjoy.”

We make our way downstairs and through the kitchen. There’s no sign of Sarah or Shaun, or the dogs for that matter. It’s then I notice a note on the counter from Sarah, saying she took the dogs down to Shoreline Dog Park and would be back later.

“Do you want me to wait until you leave with Shaun before taking off?” Denise asks.

“No, it’s fine. You go on ahead and have a good time with Jim.”

We exchange hugs and good byes. Once she’s out the door, I go out to the patio to sit and relax, and process all that’s happened since my arrival. It’s hard to believe the twists and turns life offers. My little sister, in love! With her boss! And me, meeting Shaun. That’s certainly a curveball. A pleasant one, sure, but still… came out of nowhere.

Sylvia would say,that’s life. Thinking of her makes me want to call and check on how she’s doing, but that thought gets interrupted by the sound of the patio door sliding open.

I turn around and see Shaun walking toward me. I stand up and he stops in his tracks, eyes growing a little wider, lips curving into a sexy smile. That’s good, right? At least he’s not grimacing.

“You look amazing, Abby.”

I can’t help but blush and tell him thank you.

He stops right in front of me, reaching out to lift the ends of my hair over one shoulder.“You had quite a bit cut off. Makes you look so different.”

“It’s the bangs,” I say. “Do you like it?” I nervously push the bangs across my face.

“Yes. It all looks great. And those sexy little shorts really show off your legs.”

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