“Maybe.”
“Girl, there’s no maybe. You will give me all the details,” she said in a whisper that so wasn’t a whisper.
I winced and couldn’t help notice the side eye from Rory.
“Just be careful and have fun. You deserve to have some fun. All you do is work.”
“I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“That you will.” She looked over my shoulder and waggled her fingers at Rory. “Nice to meet you, stud.”
“Jeez, Gina. It’s not like it’s a secret.”
“Then what’s his name?” she asked out of the side of her mouth.
“Rory. Okay, his name is Rory. I’ll be fine, Mom.”
“Have fun and make sure you keep some raincoats in your pocket.”
“I’m leaving.”
I stopped in front of Rory. “Ready?”
“We’re not eating?” His gaze dropped to my lips then back up to my eyes. “Kind of worked up an appetite.”
I swallowed hard. We sure did. And everyone in this town knew who I was. And I’d be answering questions all day if I took him anywhere else. Except…
I held up my finger, then took out my phone and quickly texted my brother back.
Where the hell have you been?
Do I ask you these questions when you are out late?
Yes.
Okay, so that was true. Rory gave me a hard look.
Something came up. I ran into a friend and passed out at their place.
Their? Her?
Are you working or home?
Obviously, you’re still not home, but no, I’m at the shop.
K. Heading home, just didn’t want you to worry. Didn’t need me at the diner, so I’m going to work on some new recipes.
Sounded like a good enough excuse for him not to rush home. He hated when I took over the kitchen to try out ice cream recipes.
Please, for the love of all that is holy, make something other than mint.
No promises.
PITA.
Love you too.
When I got the middle finger emoji as a response, I knew all was okay in my world.