“Moooommmmm…” Ben’s whiny voice hit my ears.
Savannah started to get up, but I halted her. I looked at my glass sitting on the coffee table. “I’d say we’re due for some more wine. I’ve got it, if you deal with them.”
“You got it.” She laughed.
I watched as she moved toward the boys. They were fighting over the red Chevelle SS Hot Wheels car. It was Ben’s favorite, and I’m honestly surprised he even brought it. Every time I saw it, I was reminded of the real version of the car currently sitting in Luke’s garage. When Ace went off to race, he left it behind.
Occasionally, I’d hear that old familiar engine running up the road, and I always had to remember that it was Luke and not Ace driving it. After a while, I finally accepted that he was gone. I moved on, found out that Ben was coming, and decided I was going to do everything humanly possible to care for my little boy.
I bent down onto the floor and reached for the car. “Okay, guys. How about I just hold onto it until you’re done.”
“Aww…” Both boys whined, but I knew it was best.
“How about this… I’ll give it back in a little while. For now, just pay with all these amazing other cars.”
Ben’s bottom lip stuck out, but he didn’t complain any more. He could’ve screamed and caused a scene.
I stood up to walk away, and they started playing with the other cars lying around. I sighed as I dropped my ass onto the couch. As much as I hated to admit it, I really wanted a night alone. Although, that would probably only consist of wine, ice cream, and sad memories, followed by tears.
All the thoughts about what could happen with Julian swirled around in my mind. My heart jumped a little at the thought of us making up and becoming a family, or at the thought of being intimate with someone again. Although, that thought also sent a chill down my spine. I’d only ever slept with Julian, and now I was a mom. I had the stretch marks to prove it.
If we ever did it again, I’d definitely ask for the lights to be off. I wasn’t the skinny and physically fit girl he knew in school.
Sav cleared her throat and looked at me. “What’s going on in your crazy mind over there? Don’t overthink this and freak out. Can I ask you to just wait to see what happens instead of expecting the worst?”
We were sitting on the couch chatting when my phone buzzed. Looking over, I sawAceflash across the screen. Crazy how his number was still the same after all these years.
ACE:
I’m cooking you dinner tomorrow.
There was no asking, it was a demand. A cold, chill-inducing command. Before I could respond, my phone buzzed in my hand again.
ACE
You can’t say no. I’ve given you a couple days. Now, it's time to talk. I want to see him, Anna.
Anna
Okay, meet you there? Wait, where are you staying?
ACE
No, I’m picking you up. Be ready at 7pm.
Anna
Where are we going? What do I need to wear? Just so you know, I’m not bringing Ben.
ACE
Good. As much as I want to see him and get to know him, we need to talk things out first. Can you have your parents or Savannah watch him?
Anna
And clothes?
ACE