Open House

by TC Matson

  I nod. “Your dad has never been good on the ice. The first time he took me, he bragged like he knew what he was doing. Stayed on his butt more than his feet.” I giggle at the memory.

  “That’s what he said.”

  “I’m surprised he admitted it. He denied that for years.”

  He shrugs. “Dad talked about you a lot.”

  “He did? Like what?” I ask, trying to sound unaffected.

  He glances up with a sad look. “I think he misses you.

  The statement not only irritates me but devastates me. “Well, we all miss each other,” I say nonchalantly. “It’s all a big change.”

  “Did you know Dad was nervous when he asked you out?”

  “He texted me out,” I correct him.

  “He told me he had typed it out days before but was too scared to send it.”

  This crushes me. “I’m done talking about Dad.” I take a sip of my tea, choking down the emotions he unknowingly just ripped open.

  Lucas grins widely. “Did you sleep with my bat?”

  “I did. It stayed right beside my bed. I’m pleased to report no burglars, boogie monsters, or villains.”

  “Good.” He nods his head.

  Since there isn’t much he can help me with, Lucas plays Xbox while I clean up the kitchen. I feel like Brian orchestrated a plan and manipulated Lucas by telling him things from our past he’s not felt the need to delve into before just because he knew it was going to get back to me. I can’t figure out if this was some sort of ploy to win me back. Why would he bring the past up, or better yet, take Lucas to the very place he and I shared some of our best times?

  It confuses me to wonder if he truly misses me. Even if he does, do I really care? I’m happier where I’m at now, even if I am alone. At least now I can say I’m not lonely.

  Chapter 17

  I’m nervous as hell. Panic is knocking in my chest as I’m worried sick I’m going to bomb this interview. It’s been more than eleven years since I’ve had to do this. Even with the retail position, I didn’t have an interview. I got the job without even a handshake. But this…this position is big and career promising. This grants me a great job for many years to come and can pave the road to a bright future.

  I’m dressed to impress. My chestnut brown hair is down, curving with loose waves. I’m wearing a crimson red blazer skirt suit with a lacy black shirt underneath and black heels. Why? Because the color red exudes a strong and powerful message. Plus, it’s energizing and I feel fabulous in it.

  I take a deep breath, pull my shoulders back and open the door into the lobby. The receptionist smiles widely when she greets me and leads me down two long halls. Her blonde hair sways back and forth with each step and I can’t help but wonder how in the world she’s able to walk so steady in heels so high. As she pushes through a wooden door, I inhale the deepest breath I’ve ever taken, set my smile, and walk in.

  The interview couldn’t have gone any better. April was there, which made me feel more confident and much more comfortable. They asked many questions, but April knew the questions that would make me shine. She already knew my answers. And when I delivered them, I did so flawlessly. The meeting was only thirty minutes long before they began trading notes and whispering amongst themselves. Soon after, April stood with a large smile and her hand out for me to shake.

  If I could put words into a frame the way they seem to look when they’re said, I would mount her words on my wall. “Congratulations. You start Thursday.”

  It takes all I have not to dance out the door when April tells me the next two days are paid vacation and that I don’t need to bother contacting the retail store because they will inform them. My new position is from eight to four and comes with full benefits, including sick and vacation days and this means next season, I won’t miss any of Lucas’ soccer practices or his games.

  I’m just walking in the door when a ding from my phone alerts me to an email. My heart flutters at Trenton’s name asking to set up this nine weeks’ parent-teacher conference. Almost all the allotted times he’s listed are next week, and since I’m starting my new job, I shoot back an email asking if there are any days this week that will work for him. Almost immediately, he responds asking if today was too short of notice. I reply accepting this afternoon, and ask him to keep Lucas after school since there won’t be anyone home to get him. That’s the downside of moving here—Clarissa doesn’t live across the street to give me a helping hand.

  I haven’t made this trip since the first conference and this time, I’m all but freaking out. A lot has changed in our lives. I’m trying to keep it together as I pass by open classrooms listening to the hum of the computers.

  Trenton is at his desk with a light blue button up with sleeves rolled to his elbows. The moment he glances up, his mouth opens to say something, but he doesn’t.

  This does something to my chest and to my self-esteem.

  He stands with a stack of papers and I scan the room. “Where’s Lucas?”

  “I sent him to see if Coach Porter needed any help. I told him to be back here by four thirty.” He drops his eyes to my heels and then back up. “A retail position has you dressing like that?”

  I grin. “Sort of. I had an interview today. I took another position within the company. I start Thursday,” I brag.

  “Congratulations.”

  I sit at the table and he begins going over Lucas’ grades. Impressively, there isn’t a blip during the time where Brian and I split. Trenton said he could tell no difference in Lucas and had no clue until he overheard him and Josh speaking about it. The two class clowns haven’t disrupted the class and are quick to help anyone who needs assistance. I smile with pride.

  Lucas comes in right at four thirty and stands beside me. “All good stuff, right?”

  “Yeah,” I answer. “This is your best year yet.”

  “Mr. B. has a cool way of teaching. He makes it fun.”

  I smile back to Trenton. “Thank you.”

  “Did you get the job?” Lucas asks eyeing my outfit.

  “I did,” I answer proudly.

  “That calls for a celebratory dinner. Let me take you both out,” Trenton says and I snap my head at him.

  “Thanks but—”

  “Any place you’d like to go,” he interrupts me, smirking with mischief.

  “I don’t think—”

  “Come on, Mom,” Lucas whines interjecting my distress.

  I rip my gaze from Trenton and look down to my son. “Don’t you have homework?”

  Trenton stifles a laugh, rocks back on his heels, and crosses his arms looking pretty damn satisfied.

  Lucas nods toward him. “Mr. B had me do it before helping Coach Porter. Really makes a difference when the teacher helps you.”

  Glimpsing back to Trenton, I cock my head to the side and study him. His stare doesn’t falter, neither does his shit-eating grin. He’s got Lucas on his side and he’s using it as checkmate. I’m hesitant. What’s his angle? His agenda?

  After a long internal battle between my heart and worries, I give in. Trenton offers to swing by the house and pick us up, but I deny the request instantly. I’m not ready to have company, especially his company.

  We head home to change and get ready for our six-thirty dinner. I trade in my professional wear for something more casual—bluish-gray long sleeve, dark jeans and tall black flat boots. I keep my hair down since it already looks amazing and touch up my makeup. I’m excitedly anxious.

  “April, I’m really nervous,” I tell her after explaining how I got in this situation.

  “About what? You’re having dinner with a friend,” she says.

  “A friend who I know is attracted to me.”

  “And you’re attracted to him. What could possibly go wrong?”

  “A lot,” I inform her. “I’m not ready to date. Or I don’t think I am.”

  “Who said this will turn into a date? This could legitimately just be a friendly dinner.”
/>   “Yeah…” I say in an exhale.

  “I think you want this. You’re just too chicken shit to admit it. I think you’re more ready to date than you think you are.”

  “No. He’d be a rebound.”

  “I don’t think so. You were over Brian long before you two split. The past little bit has been a readjustment phase. You were used to someone, and now you’re alone.”

  “Are you trying to talk me into dating him?”

  “I’m trying to talk you into opening your mind. This may not be anything, but it could turn into something. Don’t shut it off and rule it out just because you’re afraid.”

  “I’m not afraid. I just…I don’t want to be with anyone,” I tell her, trying to convince the both of us.

  “Because you’re afraid you’ll love again. You’re afraid of the feeling. I’ve been there. I know how you’re feeling.”

  “How’d this go from dating to falling in love?” I snort trying to take the edge off the uncomfortableness.

  “You’re scared shitless of being happy with someone. It’s different for you. Scary. You’ve been miserably strong for years. It’s time for you to go have fun.”

  “Thank you. You know…for being you and being here for me.”

  “I love you, girl. You’ve got this. Build your confidence back up and call me if you need me.”

  Trenton decided on a restaurant that serves everything from chicken tenders to steak and lobsters. He was waiting outside in the parking lot when we arrived and walked in with us. The hostess leads us toward the back and places us in a booth. Trenton immediately takes the seat in front of me but Lucas slides in beside his favorite teacher.

  A young and cheery waitress with dark hair pulled into a pony tail approaches the table and gives Lucas a tablet with a ton of games before explaining the specials.

  After we order our drinks, Trenton folds his hands on the table and leans up. “This new job, tell me about it.”

  My chest swells in happiness because someone other than the two main people in my life—Lucas and April—is actually interested, truly interested in a subject of mine. I beam as I delve into my new position, explaining how April had a big hand in it by helping me get my foot in the door and asking all the right questions to help me shine the most. I’m extremely happy about my new hours and how I won’t miss any of Lucas’ soccer next season.

  He listens intently as the green flecks in his hazel eyes twinkle under the soft light. As I express how elated I am to finally have a career that promises me a great future, one that potentially can turn into many other opportunities, the smile on his face makes it to his eyes.

  Our food arrives, and even though it slows the conversation, Trenton doesn’t allow it to end and continues to ask questions. I’m giddy revealing all the details.

  “Oh!” Lucas drops his chicken strip and twists toward Trenton. “I showed coach the way you showed me how to do the triangles. He said next year he might imp…imli…impi…” He shakes his head. “He said he might teach it next year, but he thinks we’re too young.”

  “Implement,” he says. “It’s one of the best practice drills you can teach. It teaches foot position while keeping your eye out for your opponents. It ranks right up there with dribbling and juggling. I can’t believe he didn’t teach you guys this.”

  Lucas shrugs. “Coach says we’re just kids.”

  “Doesn’t mean you won’t turn into pros. Why not teach you everything?”

  “Why don’t you teach, Mr. B.,” Lucas asks.

  “I’d prefer to watch on the sidelines and teach in the classroom,” he replies.

  Lucas confiscates Trenton’s attention with the tablet. Golf and bowling—what man can refuse that? It’s funny to watch the two boys overreact and cut up about pins not falling, or the ball splicing…whatever that is. It makes me happy to see Lucas is doing well and not just pretending so I don’t worry.

  Dinner ends and Trenton walks us to my car. He opens the back door for Lucas but grabs my elbow stopping me from getting in. He tells Lucas goodnight before shutting the door.

  His eyes latch onto mine with compassion. “Are you okay?”

  “Yes. Thank you for tonight.”

  “I mean are you okay with everything going on?”

  I nod, smiling warmly. “I’m actually really good. Better than I expected.”

  He scans my face and then scrapes his bottom lip with his teeth before it shifts into the sexiest smile. “Let’s go on a date.”

  I look everywhere except at him. “I, uh, I…” I stutter.

  “Just say yes, Riley,” he says thickly.

  I drop my view to my feet, and he clutches my hand giving it a gentle squeeze. “I’m not out to hurt you. Just say yes.”

  I chew my lip. “I don’t know when I’ll have time.”

  His left brow raises a notch. “Luckily, you just told me your entire schedule. When does Lucas go to his dad’s?”

  I squint my eyes. “I’ve agreed to let him go back this weekend.”

  Victory swarms his expression. “Saturday it is then.”

  “I—”

  “Would love to,” he interrupts with a chuckle, putting words into my mouth.

  I steady flirty eyes on him and purse my lips. “I would love to,” I repeat his sentence.

  He grins and squeezes my hand again. “Have a good week. I hope you enjoy it.” His words roll off his tongue in such a smooth and sexy tone, my knees feel weak. He winks and takes off to his truck.

  I glance to the stars before sliding in my car and cranking it. I thought for sure Lucas would ask why Trenton was holding my hand, but instead he doesn’t say a word, which relieves me. I have no idea how I would explain it and I’m not quite sure I’m ready to have this talk.

  Chapter 18

  My week went by splendidly. After having two days off, and doing absolutely nothing but pampering myself with a lot of couch time, I went into my new position feeling like a new woman. I fell into a perfect routine and for the first time in years, I felt the importance of my job. I was appreciated and needed. I had a purpose, one that didn’t involve cleaning the house, cooking dinners, and doing laundry. An inner light of confidence glowed through my first-day jitters and everything came together as if the universe already had it planned for me to have this job. I exuded courage and felt determined. My early mornings and rushed afternoons weren’t unfortunate obstacles, but instead they were welcomed perfect opportunities.

  I feel proud.

  I am happy.

  The image in the mirror reflects it and my soul feels it.

  I dropped Lucas off at Brian’s yesterday after work. I like it better when I do the dropping off because I don’t go to the door and it doesn’t become a mass of painful uncomfortableness. I’m able to watch Lucas walk in the door and I get to leave without any words spoken between his father and me. It’s easier and less strained.

  After I got home from dropping him off, I ate a sandwich and did what my body begged me for— sleep…for twelve solid hours.

  I woke up feeling refreshed and energized and since, I’ve been cleaning the house like a mad woman, releasing all my anxious energy on the floor, counters, and bathroom. It’s better to expel it in the places needing it the most rather than waste it. My house is sparkling and smells like bleach and glass cleaner mixed with the scent of the vanilla candle burning on the kitchen table.

  Excited is an understatement and high-strung is an underestimation. Trenton texted me several hours ago determined to pick me up at the house. Arguing with that man is worse than arguing with a cat. He doesn’t listen and will do as he pleases. I finally caved in and gave him directions to get here. This was before I found out he wasn’t going to tell me where he was taking me. If I had known that piece of information, I would’ve used it against him and blackmailed an answer from him.

  I finish putting my makeup on and although I don’t wear much, I add more to my eyes to give them a bigger pop. I brush out my hair, leaving
it down so I don’t get a headache, and then slide into my favorite nude heels. I’m dressed casually but sexy, sporting ripped jeans, a rose spaghetti strap tank top with a light gray waterfall cardigan. I’m comfortably classy.

  His knock on the door has me shaking from adrenaline and frayed nerves. “I got this,” I tell myself, padding down the hall.

  Trenton’s eyes glow and he grins wide, looking insanely handsome in a turquoise shirt, dark jeans and his chukka boots. He steals my air, robbing it from my lungs.

  “You ready?” he asks.

  I nod before my words make a path across my lips. “Yeah.”

  He clutches my hand, leads us down the sidewalk toward his truck, and then helps me in. I’m engulfed by the scent of his cologne—fresh and spicy—as I watch him stroll across the front of the truck, walking with confidence.

  “You look beautiful.” He drives off from my house.

  I mentally argue with myself. I don’t know if I should tell him how gorgeous he looks or if it will tack on extra weirdness already steaming up the windows. I chicken shit out and thank him, fiddling with my purse strap.

  The ride isn’t long when he pulls into a driveway beside a brick house and then steers his truck past it until the concrete driveway dissipates to gravel crunching under his tires. Lights run alongside the driveway, outlining the way, but where they end, so does the trip.

  “Sit there.” He jumps out of the truck and strides to my side. “Take off your shoes. You’ll break your neck in those heels.”

  “Why didn’t you tell me I needed to change them?” I squeak.

  He grins devilishly. “Because if I did, I wouldn’t be able to carry you.”

  I laugh. “You’re kidding, right?”

  He looks satisfyingly amused. “Come on.” He turns giving me his back. “Hop on. Leave your purse and shoes. No one will mess with them.”

  “Oh my God, you’re serious?” I pull off my shoes.