“Sorry to act like such a pussy with the text. I didn’t know what to do.”
My heart burned for him. Even though she assaulted him, he hadn’t retaliated. “You did the right thing.”
He nodded, and after picking up the solar lights, we headed back to where our friends were already enjoying the party. Luke visibly relaxed and was now deep in conversation with Mick about leeks and the best compost to use. A smile touched my lips. As if sensing me, he glanced over and smiled right back. I sighed.
“We need to have a little chat.” Aunt Doll motioned for me to join her under one of the gazebos that had been erected for the party.
“What’s going on between you and Luke?”
I turned to study her, weighing up what I should say when I wasn’t really certain myself.
“Does it sound stupid to say I’m not sure?”
“Not at all. But the way you keep looking at each other, and kissing.” She nudged me in the ribs, making us both giggle. “I think it’s no longer enemies or friends.”
“We’re going out for a drink tomorrow night to talk about it. I’m still not sure about dating.” I turned to face her. “To be honest, Aunt Doll, I’m terrified after my last experience.”
She placed a hand on my arm. “My darling, it’s normal to be afraid. Think about what happened to poor Luke. You’re both hurting. Maybe you can help one another to trust again.”
I watched him as he interacted with others. If I didn’t try now, when would I ever be brave enough?
“Toby’s taking me out for dinner on Saturday.”
That took me away from my jumbled thoughts.
“That’s great. When did he ask you?”
Her cheeks turned a delicate pink. “When we waited for you in the car earlier. While you were stealing a sneaky kiss in the house.”
My turn to go red now. “How did you know?”
She chuckled. “Luke’s eyes looked wild, and your lips were bigger than normal. I might be sixty-two, but I still know the signs.”
I laughed with her. “Anyway, enough about me.” I held her close and gave her a warm hug. “I’m so happy for you, Aunt Doll. Really, I am. It’s about time.” Tears tumbled down my cheeks.
“Why are you crying?” She dabbed my face with a tissue.
“You gave up so much to look after me. To become my sole parent. I want this happiness for you.”
“Fliss, I’d do it again in a heartbeat. You’ve grown into a wonderful woman, and I was glad to be an integral part of it.”
“Would you ladies like a refill?”
Luke. How long had he been there? His expression was soft, if a little concerned.
“Please,” I replied.
He lifted a brow at me, and I smiled back, letting him know everything was okay.
* * *
Luke
After my discussion about the merits of the best compost for leeks, I began the task of making sure everyone had drinks. Something had passed between Fliss and Dolly. My initial concern when I saw she’d been crying was laid to rest when she smiled at me. I guessed it must have been about Toby taking her aunt on a date. He was nervous and excited. I was pleased for them. They deserved to have happiness and were still in their prime of life.
A couple of the ladies had put a tarpaulin on the ground as a makeshift dancefloor. The music was now playing, and I was surprised when Fliss was one of the first up. She’d taken her jacket off and was dancing with some of the other ladies. The way her tits bounced in her top, and her ass swaying to the beat did little to prevent the start of a half-chub in my boxers. Her red hair flew around her while she danced and sang.
It was getting dark now, and the music had slowed down. My cue to get up close and personal again with the sexy redheaded siren.