Page 154 of Between Regrets and Promises

Maddie

He’ll crack eventually. It’s only a matter of time. Guaranteed!

I snort. She’s had a thing for him since the first time she met him and refuses to give it up. Maybe eventually she will break through Liam’s thick shell, but I’m not so sure. He’s not the kind of guy who settles down with anyone, and if he hurt Maddie, I’d chop off his balls, then Lennon would feed them to him. Hunter considers Maddie and me his sisters, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’d kick his ass on principle alone.

Sophie

I’ll invite everyone. I’m sure they’ll come.

Maddie

Thank you! I love you! Gotta go back to class.

Sophie

Mmhmm. Love you too.

I crank the car and drive home thinking about Maddie and how I hope she stays safe. I don’t want her to go through what I have, and I’ll do everything in my power to protect her from all the crazy assholes out in the world. Rushing into a relationship with anyone isn’t worth it, and although she has a thing for Liam, I’m not sure that’s ever going to happen. She’s beautiful, sassy, and sometimes a little naïve, which makes me worry about her that much more.

Soon, I’m pulling into the driveway, feeling relieved to be home. Before getting out, I look around, making sure nothing seems out of place or suspicious. Grabbing my purse, I hurry inside and quickly lock the door behind me. That’s when I realize this is the kind of thing Mary wanted me to write down—when I’m anxious.

Once I’m in my room, I grab a notebook I’ve used for work stuff and go to an empty page and jot down what I felt and the thoughts that surfaced. Then I put how the anxiety had me rushing inside and double-checking locks. The paranoia reminds me that I need to take some slow, deep breaths and try to relax before I irrationalize the situation and have a full-on anxiety attack.

Once I’m done writing, I place my notebook and pen on my nightstand since I’m sure there will be more times I’ll need it. Then I sit on my bed and go to my happy place, deep breaths in, slow breaths out. After a few moments, some of the anxiety melts away, and I’m content enough to stop for the time being.

I remember I promised to give Lennon an update about therapy, so I quickly send her a text letting her know things went well. Then a text from Mason comes through.

Mason

Whatcha want for dinner?

He’s been a lifesaver in more ways than one, and I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay him for everything he’s done for me.

Sophie

I don’t care. What do you want?

Mason

I asked you first!

I wonder if this is what real couples do, go back and forth about what’s for dinner. I realize I’m smiling, and it feels good, but Mason seems to do that to me. Always has.

Sophie

Pasta?

Mason

No, I’m not in the mood for that.

Sophie

Pizza then.

Mason

That’s too greasy.

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