Page 34 of Soaring Free
“No, he wasn’t. They said he stayed in Nashville. But Jimmy helped me get the lug nuts loose, which is why I couldn’t do it myself, and he actually changed the tire for me. I’m sure Kyle would have done the same, Jimmy just stopped first. I was slightlyrude with them initially, but I didn’t want Shane to somehow twist this against me.”
“For a flat tire?”
“For being stuck. Like I’m unable to handle situations by myself.” I’m not sure when it started happening, but fighting with Shane has me concerned about how the court will view my role in life. Am I enough as a stay-at-home mom? Am I able to handle things without a partner? I never would have questioned this before Shane left me, but now with him being mean and vindictive, I guess anything is possible.
“Savannah. No. We both know that’s not true and there is no way he could use this against you, unless you blew the tire because you were driving intoxicated, swerved to avoid a cow in the middle of the road, and popped it going off-road for a joy ride.” I laugh at his ridiculous example. “Was that what happened, ma’am?” He’s teasing me, but he’s also brightening my mood.
“No sir, that is not what happened. I was coming back from the mall because Emily wanted a specific yarn for the craft she’s working on and they had the exact one she wanted.”
“What a nice mama. Were Jimmy or Kyle rude or inappropriate in any way?”
“No, no. Not at all! They were perfect gentlemen and Jimmy even said this is what neighbors do, and he’s right. Anyone from Forrest Falls would’ve stopped if they saw me.”
“Why don’t you meet me at the auto shop and I’ll help unload your flat tire? I don’t want you to have to drive around with that in your car, and you also shouldn’t drive more than fifty miles on that spare. We can get your tire squared away before you have to pick up your girls.” His request makes me smile even wider—even after I was okay, he’s still going above and beyond.
Who is this man and why do I feel like I kind of want to keep him?
Chapter twenty
Talk about shit timing.
Me
I am so sorry.
Savannah
What happened?
Me
I know I promised to do everything I could to be at the meeting today, but the school nurse called. Gigi fell at recess, and they think she broke her wrist, so I have to get her to the doctor. I know you’re in good hands with Pippa, but I didn’t want you to think I was blowing you off. If I thought this was something that could wait, I would, but Gigi was crying for me. I hope you understand.
Damn it. That’s not even the tip of the iceberg but it’s the best I can do right now. I am sorry, but I can’t be in two places at once and I just hope she understands. When the nurse called and I heard Gigi crying in the background, there wasn’t a doubt in mind where I needed to be, even if I also wanted to be there for Savannah.
I hate that she’s going to have to be in a room with her asshole ex, but I know Pippa will have her back. Even the other week when Shane was a fool after court, his own team members didtheir part to protect Savannah. She’ll be fine, I know that, but I would feel much better if I were in the room at her side to ensure everything goes well for her.
Savannah
Oh no! Of course I understand, your baby needs you. I hope she feels better soon and doesn’t need surgery. Will you let me know how it goes?
Me
Absolutely. We’re waiting to be seen now, but will you let me know when the meeting is done?
Savannah
Yeah, I can.
Me
Remember, you are a queen. Shoulders back, head up, ice glare on. You’ve got this. I’ll talk to you soon.
It won’t be soon enough. I decide to cover all my bases and text my sister.
Me
Hey, Gigi fell off the monkey bars and possibly broke her wrist. We’re at the doctor so I can’t make it today, already texted Savannah. Don’t let that asshole intimidate her at all or even get close enough to touch her.
