Page 63 of Starting Over with You
“Fine,” she says with a huff. “Be difficult. But know if something happened between the two of you, I’d be so supportive.”
What about Missy?
Shit, Skyye.
Jesus, my boys.
I squeak out, “Oh, the boys are calling.”
It’s a lie, and Sadie knows it. Her laughter is obnoxious as she sings, “Sure, but Kenni?”
My heart is in my throat. “Yeah?”
“He looks at you like you’re the Beer League trophy and he wants to hoist you above his head.”
“Oh my God,” I groan, and she only laughs. “Stop.”
“Love you.”
“Love you,” I say quickly, hanging up. I toss my phone onto the island and then cover my face as my feelings overwhelm me to the point of tears. I shouldn’t be entertaining any of this. I shouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of Dean’s flirting and those naughty little smirks, but damn it, I want to be. I know that my marriage was over six years ago and that I don’t love Stratford, but am I ready to move on?
Maybe I’m reading way too much into this?
Flirting means he wants me, which could just be sex. Could I get down with that?
Feelings wouldn’t even be a thing. I can fuck without them—because I have so much experience doing that. I have had sex with three guys, two steady boyfriends and then Stratford.
Who am I kidding? If I slept with Dean, I’d want more. I don’t know if he is capable of that. And it’s all so fucking messy. He knocked up my sister!
Ugh.
I sit at the island for way too long, just doomscrolling through Reels as the sky turns black. I’ve made it through three Poppis, and I’m yawning when a text comes through.
Dean
Hey, just checking in to make sure you’re settled.
Immediately, I feel as if I’ve run a mile in seven minutes, which is not something I do. Ever.
Me
Yup, just hanging out.
Dean
Good. I’m about to go to bed and was just thinking of you.
I stare at the message, willing my fingers to move.
Me
What about me?
Dean
Just glad you’re in my home. I hope you’re comfortable.
Me
