Fucking Sean,I inwardly groan. I haven’t said it to her, I’m sure as hell not going to admit it to him.
“She’s different.”
The corner of Sean’s mouth curves up. I used the buzz word. Every man describes the love of his life one way.Different.So, I don’t have to elaborate any further for Sean to know.
“Well, who the fuck is she?” His voice elevates, laced with curiosity. “Where’s she from?”
“Colts Neck,” I reluctantly answer.
“Rich girl. What the hell is she doing with you?”
“I have no idea.”
“What’s her name?”
“Alana.”
“Pretty name.”
“Pretty girl.”
“I bet. Do I get to meet her or what?” he shoves me.
“Hell no.”
“Why not? Afraid I’ll steal her away?”
“I’m afraid you’ll scare her away.”
“C’mon. I’m not that bad.”
“Have you met you?” I scoff.
“Met who?” Our mother appears in the kitchen doorway. She’s dressed in her work clothes. Black pants and a pink button-up top. Her hair is done nicely in a low ponytail, and there’s actually some life in her eyes. She isn’t drunk.
Yet.
“Ryan’s new girlfriend,” Sean outs me, and I punch him.
“Big mouth.”
She looks over at me. “Oh yeah? One of the neighborhood girls?”
“Oh, she’s from a neighborhood,” Sean dangles. “Just not this one.”
“Do you want to stop talking in code and tell me what that means?” she asks Sean, annoyed. She hates when we’re indirect.
“Rich girl,” Sean replies.
My mother pins me with her eyes.What the hell is that look for?
“Does it really matter where she’s from?” I ask, frustrated.
“Yes,” both Sean and my mother answer simultaneously.
I look between the two of them. This is exactly why I didn’t say anything in the first place. It’s my relationship, and it has nothing to do with anyone besides Alana and me. Although, I really didn’t think her social class was going to be an issue.
“Baby.” My mother puts her hand on my cheek. This is when she’s at her best. Right before she leaves for work. She’s sober and coherent and affectionate, and it’s a glimpse of what she would be like if she wasn’t a raging alcoholic. “If you’re happy, I’m happy. Just be careful. You tend to lead too much with your heart. Make sure she deserves it.”