Page 40 of Mister Rival

Nothing about Tristan Lucas is old.

“Even then!” she giggles.

I squeeze her hand across the table. “I love you, Clem.”

“I love you too, Mom.”

Chapter Nineteen

ALISON

My phone pings later that night just as I’m getting ready for bed. I grab it from my nightstand as I flop down onto the soft floral comforter.

My heart kicks in my chest cavity when I see what pops up onto the screen.

Tristan Lucas

Hey, Ali. Hope you enjoyed the rest of your weekend. Friday night was a blast

My teeth press into my bottom lip as I stare at the message. I can’t help but wonder if he’s been thinking about me as much as I’ve been thinking about him.

The chemistry we shared was off the charts and I never, in my wildest dreams, ever expected to have a filthy rendezvous with someone like him.

I find myself unable to wait before typing back.

Me

Hi Tristan. I’ve just been hanging out with Clementine and enjoying the sunshine. I hope you enjoyed your Sunday.

I hit send and snuggle under my covers while I wait for him to reply. I turn off my bedside lamp and lay back on my king-sized pillows. My house is a modest Malibu cottage I bought a couple years back after the divorce. I used some of my inheritance from my grandparents to bring the charming little place back up to scratch. I love shabby chic and anything that can be reclaimed, mixed with modern conveniences. I love being so close to the beach and so does Clem. We often go for long walks together and check out the washed up shells on the beach and enjoy the ocean air.

My phone buzzes again.

Tristan Lucas

I had dinner with my kids tonight. They were asking about the reunion

My heart rate kicks up even further.

Me

Oh, that sounds nice. The dinner part… What did you say to them about the reunion?

Tristan Lucas

I tried to downplay it as much as possible. But my youngest Noah has a friend that knows that dreadful woman Barbara’s kid. She spilled some shit about us

I stare at his words and swallow hard. Oh no.

Tristan Lucas

Don’t worry, I waved it all off

My heart suddenly sinks like an elephant sat on it. And I shouldn’t have that reaction. I should be happy he doesn’t want to out us to the nation. But something about him not wanting anyone to know makes me feel a little deflated. I don’t want to have to hide, but I know it’s for the best.

Me

I guess it’s a little difficult to explain to your kids

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