Page 19 of Happily Ever Never

Luke looked between us, interested, but I didn’t enlightenthe kid. I understood what Leif was talking about.

They were going to try to make Sebastian see reason and hireme or someone else as a nanny. Because he needed help. And I would do whateverI could to make it work.

“We’ll find a way. Don’t worry. You’re not alone.”

“Thanks for that, May. You’re good people.”

I shrugged, a little embarrassed. I looked down at Luke andruffled his hair. “See you tomorrow, buddy.”

“Tomorrow is only a day away.”

I laughed, joining Leif’s big, deep chuckle.

I picked up my bag, waved goodbye, and headed home to getready.

This date technically wasn’t a setup. It was something I haddone on my own because every other date should have been something I tried. Itdidn’t always work out that way because I was past trying, but I had promisedmy aunt that I would try this app to see if it worked.

I wanted what Brooke had. I wanted what Lake had. I justwanted something more than what I had now. It might be selfish, but I wantedthat happiness. So, I was going to try. With this man named Theodore. Hisprofile looked great, and we had messaged a few times. He didn’t look creepy orweird, and I had to count that as progress. I’d been on a few app dates in thepast, and they had all ended poorly. Either they weren’t the guy they claimedto be, or they were unnerving to the point where I didn’t feel safe.

Maybe this one would be different.

Or perhaps I was fooling myself once again because of apromise I shouldn’t have made. I wasn’t even sure I wanted to date anymore.They said you found your happiness when you weren’t looking, but how were yousupposed to find it if you didn’t know you were out there searching for it?

I let out a frustrated breath, knowing I was talking myselfin circles. I made my way into my house and quickly changed into a soft graydress and heels considering the café we were going to tonight. It was a bistrowith French food and lovely ambiance. I had been there a couple of times withfriends, but never on a date.

I was grateful for that because I didn’t need a familiarhostess or a waitstaff member placing bets on me like they were probably doingin the other places I went. No, I didn’t need that pity.

I touched up my hair and makeup, grabbed a new bag, switchedeverything over to it, and nodded.

Okay. This is it.

I pulled out my phone and let out a breath.

Me: I’ll text you when I get there.

Lake: Good. Let us know how it goes. I don’t likeyou meeting strangers.

Considering everything Lake had gone through, I didn’t blameher for that. But I was doing my best to be safe.

Me: You’ll know where I’m at. And Nick and Leifhave this guy’s name and contact information. I’ll be in a public place. I’mmeeting him there. I’ll be safe.

I didn’t say “I promise” because there were nopromises when it came to that, and they would only be empty platitudes when itcame to Lake anyway. I loved her too much for that.

Lake: Have fun. And sneak a picture so I can seewhat he looks like.

I laughed.

Me: We video chatted. I know what he looks like.I sent you the photo.

Lake: Send me a picture anyway. I want to makesure he looks good for you.

I rolled my eyes, said my goodbyes, and headed to therestaurant.

I was going to have fun tonight. I was allowed to date andfigure out what I wanted. I was young, smart, attractive, and liked sex.

The hostess seated me near a window, and I watched peoplepass by, going from shop to shop and into restaurants for dinner.

When the waiter stopped and asked if I wanted a drink, Iordered sparkling water, not sure if I should have alcohol tonight or not.