Ask Me Why(13)

“No clue.”

“You haven’t asked?”

I gape at her. “That’s not my business.”

Sadie waves off my words. “That’s a perfectly logical question. They’re regulars so you’ve been chatting. You’re bound to be curious.”

“That seems too personal.”

“Guess you’ll never find out,” she mumbles.

“I don’t know, Dee. I get the feeling his mom isn’t in the picture.”

She rests her chin on a closed fist. “Oh?”

I bounce my shoulders up and down. “Ollie never talks about her. Mary’s made a few snide comments about women letting him down. Makes me assume.”

“Ah, sure. But don’t make an ass outta yourself.”

“Thanks for the advice.”

Sadie’s brown eyes sparkle. “Maybe he wants you to take the place of mommy dearest.”

I cough out a gasp. “Highly doubtful.”

“He visits your store almost every day.”

“So? He loves sugar.”

“He can get that anywhere.”

I gnaw on my lip, the implications rolling over me. Getting attached will only lead to disappointment and pain. I’d hate to cause Ollie distress of any sort. My throat is too tight, making swallowing a chore.

I suck on the inside of my cheek. “Kids are creatures of habit, right? Ollie is building a bit of a routine, but it’s only temporary. He’ll move on to the next exciting prize soon.”

“That sounds made up,” Sadie drones.

“And how would you know?”

She twirls a lock of dark hair. “Touché. Do you ever want kids, Brae?”

I toss my head back and laugh. “Are you high? I can barely take care of myself.”

“Oh, stop.” Sadie shoves me lightly. “You’re recovering well. Most would crumble and fall under your circumstances.”

“Three years later and I’m barely hanging on.” I blow out a long breath.

“Not true. I’ve been by your side and can attest to the opposite. You’re strong and brave and an inspiration.”

My eyes get hot as I look away. “You’re giving me too much credit.”

“And you don’t give yourself enough.” Sadie wraps an arm around me.

Warmth builds in my chest and spreads through me. “Thanks for everything, Dee.”

“You’re my bestie. This is what we do.”

I lean further into her. “Well, I really appreciate your support.”

Roast chicken and baked potatoes fill the air. My stomach growls, and I slap a palm over the noise.

Sadie glances at the clock. “Shouldn’t be much longer. Sorry for the wait.”

I flick her arm. “Yeah, Dee. Hurry it up. You’re slacking tonight. I mean, you’ve only welcomed me at the door, cooked a meal that smells divine, and served perfectly chilled wine. For real?”

She snorts. “Brat. I’m trying to be a good host.”

“You don’t have to try. It comes natural.”

“If only I could find a man to compliment me the way you do.”

“Ugh, they complicate everything.”

“Good point! Who needs them anyway?” She nods to my empty glass. “More wine?”

“Sure, why not. We’re celebrating.”

“And what might that be exactly?” Sadie grabs the bottle and pours in a healthy dose.

I tap my lips. “Being nightmare free for a week.”

“Oh, that’s a great reason. Don’t forget the sexy man responsible. Complicated or not.”

“Why in the world would we toast to that surly bastard?”

“Hate or love, he’s bringing your fire back. You haven’t been this… alive in years.”

I pretend to ponder that for a moment, but the truth already breathes inside of me. Since Brance crashed into Thicket a week ago, the numbness has lifted. Pieces of me from before the accident and trauma have been slipping into place. It feels good, really great if I’m being totally honest.

“He’s a thorn in my side,” I mutter.

Sadie nudges me. “A little pinch never hurt anyone. He’s a worthy distraction. I’m glad he’s keeping your mind occupied elsewhere.”

“That makes one of us.” I’m such a liar.

“Thinking of him is just a taste of normal, completely innocent. Getting the juices flowing again.”

I screw up my face. “I can assure you all my parts are still in fine condition.”

Sadie giggles. “Humor me.”

“Fine, he’s a crumb.”

She frowns, and I roll my eyes. “Okay, a nibble.”

She gnashes her teeth. “A bite?”

“Maybe a sip.”

“Oooh, yeah. That’s hot. Drink him down.” Sadie clicks her glass against mine.

I hold up an open palm. “Wait, what? No. No, no, no. I thought we were messing around.”

“Meh, maybe. But promise me something?” She slouches deeper into the couch.

I squint at her, weighing the possibilities. “That depends.”

“Give someone a chance to prove you wrong. You deserve to find love again.”