“Nothing since the ‘everything is fine’ message.”
At least the asswipe had sent something, but it was a dick move.He’d told her they were coming back on Monday.I’d been ready to fly to Winnipeg with her to track the moron down, but fortunately he was needed on set here in Vancouver.
“What are you going to do for the next couple of weeks?”I dropped my food container in the recycling and reached for hers.
She passed it to me, frowning.“What do you mean?”
I stepped between her legs, where I could wrap my arms around her waist and hold her, for what was probably the last time.“Since you’re not working here.”
She blinked.“I’d forgotten.”
“You’ve probably got a million things on your to-do list, but you’re welcome here, anytime.If you want to get away from your family, or take some time for yourself, the door’s always open.”
She put a hand on my jaw, thumb brushing over my cheek.“Does that mean your bed?”
“It means anything you want it to mean.You don’t have to cook, or make coffee, or sleep with me.If you want the place to yourself, you’re welcome.”
She reached forward and kissed me, lips soft and gentle.“Thank you.I’m not sure what’s going to happen, but I’ll keep you posted.”
I nodded.What else could I do?This weekend had confirmed my feelings.I was in love with Mia.Still, or again—it didn’t really matter.But her family was her first obligation, so there was no point in telling her.I could offer her a reprieve, but that was all she’d take from me.
“I wish things were different.”She brushed another kiss over my lips.“But since I don’t have to go just yet, shall we try another condom?”
Chapter26
A First Time for Everything
Mia
Erik flew back Monday morning with Arne—too late for his bus to school.He came by the house while I was cleaning the kitchen, ears pricked for the sound of his car.When I finally heard it, I rushed to the door, relief making me dizzy.
“Mommy, I got to fly on an airplane!”Arne almost knocked me over in his eagerness for a hug.
I had things to say to Erik, but I wasn’t putting my son in the middle.“Was it fun?”
He nodded vigorously.“Except landing made my ears hurt.Am I still going to school?”
“I’ll take you after lunch.”
Erik grabbed Arne’s bag from the car and brought it over.He dropped it and turned to go.
“Hold on, Erik.Arne, go in and see Grandma.She’ll want to hear about your trip.I need to talk to your dad.”
Arne leaned up to kiss my cheek.Was he taller than on Friday?“I missed you, Mom, but I have lots and lots to tell you.”
“I can’t wait.”
Once he was inside the house, Erik held up his hands.“I know, I should have told you.”
Someone was looking out the window, probably Cora, so I pointed to the sidewalk.“Walk.”
We turned right, the direction not important.
“What thehell, Erik?You can’t just take Arne without telling me.”
He shrugged.“I was pissed that you were spending time with your hockey player and Arne was so impressed.And Mom and Dad were thrilled to see him.”
I rubbed my forehead.“I don’t have any problems with your parents seeing Arne.I don’t have the time or money to take him myself, but kidnapping my son for three days because you’re butt hurt is not okay.”