Page 80 of As a Last Resort
“She didn’t tell you?”
“She didn’t.”I looked down at the brochure.There was a picture of two ladies playing tennis and laughing on the front.She hated exercise.
“They surprise us sometimes, don’t they, these people the universe shoves in our path and won’t let us shake?”
Tears spilled down my face.
“Speaking of, Austin hasn’t called out of work in years.You must’ve done something to him to get him to hand over that boat to my boy for the morning.”She leaned closer.“It’s about damn time.”
26
AUSTIN
I’d be lying if I said the sting from our earlier conversation at the hospital had faded.I understood her relationship with her mom was complicated, but what lingered most was the fact that Sam was staying with me.
She’d be sleeping in a room.In my house.
Tonight.
Only a few feet away from mine, which was perfectly fine.
Totally fine.
I’d probably forget she was even there.
ME:How’s your mom?
SAM:OK.I’ll fill you in tonight.
I’m sorry.
For earlier.
ME:I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Pugalicious there yet?
SAM:Ugh.On his way from airport.
ME:Be ready with your bags in 5.I’m coming to scoop you.
SAM:Knight in shining armor to the rescue again?
ME:We’re going to watch the Mariners’ showcase with Lexi.
SAM:As in, football?
ME:Yes ma’am.
SAM:Oh bummer.
I promised the paint I’d watch it dry tonight.
Rain check?
“I thought you were kidding.”She answered the door of her bungalow wearing a sweatshirt withLET’SASSUMEI’MRIGHTplastered across the front that hung to her knees without any makeup on and her hair piled on top of her head.This girl was chipping away at my resolve every moment I saw her without even trying.
“I can’t believe you still own that.”
