Page 101 of New Beginnings at the Cosy Cat Cafe
‘I don’t blame you.’
‘But I’ve agreed to meet him at the pub tonight, hear him out.’
‘Do youwantto?’ Rose asked, her eyes narrowed. ‘Hear him out?’
‘I honestly don’t know. All he said last night was that he misses me and regrets ending things.’
‘And how do you feel about that?’
‘Stunned? Angry?’ Tori shrugged. ‘Maybe a little bit of me is glad; I’m honestly not sure.’
‘And where does this leave things with Leo? How did the date go?’
Tori smiled at the mention of Leo’s name. ‘It was everything you’d hope for in a first date. Romantic, exciting, passionate…’ Tori felt her insides fizz at the memory of the kiss they’d shared after dinner.
‘You kissed?’
‘Uh-huh.’ Tori nodded.
‘And how was it?’
‘Let’s just say it was a good kiss.’
‘And was it only a kiss?’ Rose asked, taking a huge bite of cake.
‘Yep,’ said Tori. ‘Don’t get me wrong,’ she added quickly. ‘It’s not that I wasn’t tempted; I just don’t want to rush into anything yet.’
‘Given that Ryan was waiting for you when you got home, that’s probably a good thing.’
‘You’re not wrong,’ said Tori, sighing. ‘Can you imagine how much worse things would have been this morning?’
‘Well, if it’s any help at all, I’m Team Leo. Ryan had his chance, and he blew it. Big time. Hear him out if you want to, but don’t let him suck you in with excuses.’
‘But what if he’s genuinely sorry? If he just panicked at the thought of settling down?’
‘Then he should have spoken to you about it, worked things through. Not dump you without explanation, leaving you stranded.’
‘We had a life together, though, Rose. I can’t just switch off my feelings – it isn’t that simple. If he is ready to settle down, maybe we could make it work?’
‘I can’t tell you what to do, Tori – it’s got to be your decision. But if I was in your shoes, I’d be very wary. He’s already let you down once.’
‘I know, I get it. I know you’re only looking out for me. You’re right – it has to be my decision and I just know I won’t be able to move on, not properly, unless I hear him out.’
‘Fair enough. What are you going to do about Leo, though? You can’t leave him hanging.’
‘I know. I said I’d call him today. Do you think he’s already heard that Ryan’s back?’ Tori asked, her gaze turning to her phone.
‘Maybe, but you should call him anyway, in case he hasn’t. Why don’t I leave you to it?’
‘God knows what I’m going to say,’ Tori said, gripping the edge of her chair.
‘Just be honest with him. You didn’t know Ryan was going to turn up, so Leo can’t hold it against you. Just tell him what you told me. Explain that you need some time.’
‘I hope you’re right. Thanks Rose, I’d best call him now,’ agreed Tori.
‘What time are you meeting Ryan?’
‘Seven.’
