Page 68 of Forever Mine

“Yes, he asked me what was happening tonight.”

Hand to my cheek, I asked, “What did you say?”

She smoothed her braids, preening as she answered. “I told him you were introducing me to a hot boy-toy.”

Eyebrows raised, I asked, “And what did he say to that?”

“That I'd better think about moving in with you if that's the case.”

Laughing with Rita was exactly what I needed to put the low-level stress out of my mind.

“When did you say Scott is coming back?”

The waiter brought menus, and I opened mine although I knew I’d have the oxtail. “He should be flying in Sunday night.”

“Wow. No weekend nookie?”

“None at all and the way he's acting ... ” My tone was mournful, which made Rita reach for my hand.

“What's the problem?”

In a few sentences, I told her what had happened between us.

Frowning, she said, “Sounds to me like Scott is ready to commit.”

“That's what I was afraid of, but now ... ” My sigh came out despite my attempt to hold it in.

Rita waited patiently and sipped coconut water.

Soft Jazz surrounded us, mixed with the chatter and laughter of the other customers. I gulped my rum-infused coconut water, then set the glass down with a thump. “I think I might actually want what he wants.”

With a slow nod and a grin, Rita asked, “What changed your mind?”

I picked up my glass again, but didn’t drink from it. “Scott.”

She leaned toward me. “What about him?”

“Well, I figured if after being hurt, he was ready to put his all into starting something with me, why should I hold back?” I put the glass back on the table as I absorbed what I’d just said.

“Good point.” Rita nodded sagely. “Have you told him?”

My cheeks puffed out as I exhaled. “Not yet.”

“What are you waiting for?” A grin spread over her face. “Christmas?”

I shook my head. “I'll give him a heads-up later.”

“Good girl,” she said and patted my arm. “When the world goes crazy, it's a joy to have a man who understands you and loves you, no matter what.”

“That’s one of the smartest things you’ve said in all the years I’ve known you.”

“I’m not going to dignify that with a response,” Rita said, holding back laughter.

As a lightbulb clicked on inside my head, I pushed away my drink. “Rita, I’m sorry. We have to go.”

Eyes wide, she said, “What d’you mean? We were just getting comfortable.”

“Girls’ night is cancelled.”