Page 85 of Best Kept Secret

“Can you forgive him?”

Kelsey sighed. “I don’t know. Should I?”

“Only you can answer that.”

“I’m not sure what hurts more, that he lied to me or that he thought I’d judge him for having a child. What kind of person does he think I am?”

“A good one. One of the best,” Jenna said encouragingly. “That’s probably why he was afraid to tell you.”

“That’s what he said.”

“Nobody’s perfect. We all make mistakes.”

“Now whose side are you on?” Kelsey teased.

“Yours, of course. But…”

“But what?”

“Maybe you should hear him out. If you talk to him, it might make your decision easier.”

Kelsey scrunched up her nose at the thought of it. It was much easier to stay mad from a distance. She feared she’d forgive him on sight because, despite everything, she was still head over heels in love with him.

“Or you could let him sweat it out a while longer. Nothing wrong with that.”

Once again, it sounded like Jenna was speaking from experience. This time, Kelsey’s curiosity got the best of her.

“Did something similar happen to you?”

“What? God no!”

“I didn’t mean exactly like this, but something equally painful.”

“We’re talking about you, not me.” Jenna popped up and started walking toward the kitchen. “Hey, does Stacy have wine? Do you want some?”

“I already had a couple glasses,” Kelsey replied to Jenna’s retreating back.

“Want another one?”

“No thanks.”

She heard Jenna open the refrigerator and take out the wine. Then her phone lit up where it lay on her lap. Hudson.

Where are you? I’ve been looking all over. At least tell me you’re safe.

She stared at the message, debating whether to answer.

“I’m going to grab something to eat. Want anything?” Jenna called.

“No, I’m good.”

Kelsey went back to staring at the phone, and then it lit up again. She still hadn’t turned the ringer on, thinking that might keep her from checking it. Yeah, right!

I promise I’ll stop bugging you. Just let me know you’re okay.

Was she okay? No, not really. She was still torn up inside, and maybe even more so after listening to his messages.

She heard Jenna rummaging around for food, and she quickly typed a response.