“Oh my god.”
“Something wrong, Sophie?” Bella appears with a sweet smile. “You seem stressed. Must be because Roman’s not around … right? I’m sure he could help with any frustration you’re feeling.”
Sophie calms her face. “I appreciate your concern, Bella. Thank you.”
“Where is he? Seems irresponsible for your boyfriend to leave you alone with two guys.” Her meaning is clear.
“Well, Roman would rather her be with people he trusts.” Nick handles it easily.
Diana looks between us. “But you all are-”
“Such close friends.” Bella cuts her off but then meets her eyes. “Who are you? You look familiar.”
“Shocking.” Diana takes a sip. “I’m Miles’ ex-wife and current girlfriend.”
Bella blushes and tucks her hair behind her ear. “Oh. From the pictures.”
“And now you get to see me in person,” She says in a taunting voice.
Bella looks her over, shrugs, and walks away as if Diana isn’t worth a second glance. That’s going to go over well. As Bella walks away, Diana lets out a string of insults under her breath that makes Nick’s eyes go wide.
I figured we’d heard it all while in the army. Apparently not.
“Jesus, Mom.” Sophia breathes. “You’d wash my mouth out with soap for even three of those words.”
“I’m an adult. I’m allowed to say that.” She finishes her glass.
“I am also an adult,” Sophie argues.
Diana thinks about that, then shrugs. “We’ll see. If you end up like her, a jealous little prick, I’ll revoke your adult card.”
Sophie just stares, her mouth open as her mother leaves.
“Wow,” Nick says.
“I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry. I can’t believe … she must be drunk constantly. I just … this isn’t how she normally is; I promise.”
“It’s okay.” I promise, taking her hand. Bella or not, Sophie deserves some comforting right now. “Your mom is dealing with a lot.”
“She is. I can’t imagine what it’s like to find out your husband was with someone Bella’s age and …. You know … doing all the things we are doing.” I smile.
“But we’re not letting you get that drunk. No table dancing, no temptation to kiss us.” Nick raises his hand, hoping to get a waiter’s attention. He orders a platter of food for the table. “Eat, Soph.”
She rolls her eyes then plays with her drink. Something is bugging her, something she’s either not ready to talk about, or something that’s going to get worse. I squeeze her hand. “What?”
“I just …my brain is going a million miles a minute.” She takes a deep breath then rolls her eyes. “I just don’t … um.”
“It’s okay; we can handle it,” Nick assures her with his calm voice.
I nod.
“So, I know Bella ended things, but if she hadn’t … and you met me … well.”
“There’s no contest. Bella was an agreement that started as a curiosity.” Nick shrugs. “But you ….”
“I couldn’t keep my hands or mind off you from the second I saw you, Sophie,” I convince her. “You should know that, considering we made out the first time we met.”
“Damn, Hold. You moved fast with her.” Nick chuckles.