“Same, but if it’s supposed to happen, it will. But he and I deserve the decision to be one hundred percent and with a full commitment.”
“Stepmom Gracie.”
My nose wrinkles at the thought. “No. Just no, Ava. I’m so not ready.”
“How do you know? You said you need time, so how will you know if you want him or not?”
“I don’t know. I’ll figure something out.”
“Oh! I know. Date someone else.”
I roll my eyes. “That sounds like a terrible idea.”
“Why?”
“It just is. And I can’t be fucked getting dressed up or making conversation with a stranger.”
“Bad luck. You need to figure out, if you want Marc or not, you need to go on a date with someone else and see how you feel.”
“I’m not sure, Ava. I don’t think I’m ready.”
“You didn’t think you’d ever want to date, and then Marc came along.”
This is true. I stay silent, hating the fact she is right.
“Just let me settle into work first, then I’ll tackle my love life. One task at a time.”
“You can multitask.”
“I never said I couldn’t. I just want to take my time and give Marc a true answer. An answer from the heart.”
“I guess I can’t argue with that. I need to pee, so I gotta go. This pregnancy bladder is no joke. I’ve never needed to go to the bathroom this much in my whole life.”
“Well, I’ll let you go. I’ll talk to you soon anyway.”
“Yes, you will. I need regular updates.”
“You’re so needy.”
“Shut up, you love me.”
I laugh. “Always.”
Chapter 17
Marco
Ihitthepavementa little harder today. Checking my watch, I can see my pace is my personal best. I make it to Max’s house in record time, and he’s just jogging down his steps.
“Morning.”
He nods and grumbles, “Morning.”
We take off on the usual path, and I’m desperate to ask. “What’s wrong?”
“Just tired.”
“Why? Big training week?”