Page 54 of Finding Redemption

“How’s that?” Alden’s brows knit.

“We kissed. He regretted it. And then, he ran off with the bimbo.”

“You kissed? Walker?” His mouth falls open.

I gape at him. Terror courses through my body. “Why would I do that? Oh, God. I have to see him Monday.”

“Was it good at least?” He chuckles.

“So. Damn. Good.” I hang my head in defeat.

“I see.” He gawks. “So… what now?”

“I have no clue. Do you have a rock?” I look up at him.

“Umm, no.” His brow furrows.

“I was gonna crawl under it.”

“At least it’s not the walk of shame.” He shrugs.

“Why in the hell would he leave with her? I was right there. He was with me and then… poof! Gone.”

“I’m not sure but by the way he ran from you like a bat outta hell, I would guess a broken heart.” His mouth goes slack with his conjecture.

“I’m not sure.” I sigh heavily. “It doesn’t matter. He left with Candy, must be what he wants.”

“She wasn’t anything to call home about, babe.” Alden gives my hand a squeeze.

“This. This is why I keep you around. Thank you.”

“Let’s blow this joint, hot stuff.” He waggles his brows.

“There you go, lie to me and buy me ice cream.”

“Moose Tracks or Death by Chocolate?” He winks with a grin.

“Both,” I say, thinking of ridding my mouth of the taste of Walker.

“Deal. Let’s roll.” He reaches for my hand. I take it happily.

I lay my head on his shoulder as we walk toward the exit. “Thanks for always being here, Mars Bar.”

“No problem, Reesie Cup.” He bends, placing a kiss on my head.

We sit on the couch, downing ice cream while I wallow in my misery. “Girl, you’re gonna regret this in the morning,” Alden says, setting his pint down on the table.

“I know, but it feels so good right now.” I take another spoonful in my mouth.

“Give him some time, see how things go Monday before you off yourself in ice cream.” He laughs.

“Ha, ha. I’m not that desperate.”

“Didn’t say you were, but I also know you and you’re thinking all hope is lost.”

He’s right. I do doubt Walker will come around to the possibility of us.

My phone vibrates on the table. Alden reaches for it. When his eyes grow wide, I get a heavy feeling in the pit of my belly. “Who is it?”