Page 30 of Home in the Country
Tears instantly cloud my eyes. The questions in my head are constant when it comes to Briggs and me. Am I doing enough? Should I be doing more? Am I balancing my life with his needs? Am I relying too heavily on other people already?
The mom guilt isrealand so much more potent now that I’m in Clementine Creek. I thought it would be the opposite, but it’s not.
“Cheyenne…” I say, my voice thick with emotion.
“Donotact like I don’t want to spend time with that sweet boy.”
“I know you do but—”
“Fallon,” she says my name in the same tone she uses when she’s trying to explain something to Briggs. “I love youandyour son, and I plan to make up for the time I missed out on. You’re not a burden; you’re family and you deserve a night out.”
“I feel like I just had a night out.”
“Yeah, like a week ago, so what?”
“It feels like I’m pawning him off on other people.”
“First of all, I resent the notion that I’mother people. Second, you’re a great mom, and taking a night off a few times a month to recharge is beneficial for youandBriggs. He’s going to have fun with his Auntie Cheyenne, and you’re going to have all the orgasms Otto can manage.”
“Seriously, what happened to my shy and innocent best friend?” I say on a laugh.
“She had an orgasm,” Cheyenne deadpans, and we both dissolve into a fit of giggles that has nothing to do with the wine.
“Thank you,” I finally squeak out.
“For what? Havin’ an orgasm?”
“Oh my God, stop sayingorgasm.”
“Who knew I could be so fun?”
Jake’s voice echoes in the background, and she playfully scolds him before turning her attention back to me.
“Cheyenne, I’m going to let you go; your night seems a lot more interesting than mine.”
“Well, your night will be plenty interesting on Friday so… Just a few more days.”
“We’re done talking about this,” I say, laughing, “Say hi to Jake for me, and thank you again for dinner.”
“Anytime, sweetie, you know that.”
I nod because I do know that.
We say our goodbyes, and I toss my phone onto the cushion next to me. The silence of the house feels like a balm on my frazzled nerves, and I soak it in. My mind isn’t quiet, but it’s more settled after talking to Cheyenne. I just wish I could do something for her, and then I smile as the realization hits.
FALLON: Hey Bianca, I was wondering if you were still looking for someone to make you a couple of custom gowns
BIANCA: Girl! How are you? You read my mind. I was just complaining to Harrison about that very thing.
BIANCA: Do you know someone? How is small town Tennessee?
FALLON: It’s going well, Briggs is looking forward to having Tanner finally move here though
BIANCA: And the old flame?
FALLON: I’m seeing him this Friday
We text back and forth, and Bianca pries unsuccessfully about details of my non-date Friday night. I rave about Cheyenne and her incredible talent. It feels nice to brag about my best friend, especially now that she’s taking on more custom work at the shop, and it’s nice to catch up with Bianca.
