Chapter 23
Violet
I can’t believe that this is happening to me. Is it too fast? Is it normal? I don’t know, but I can’t help the way I feel when I am with Austin. I think I am falling in love. Can someone fall in love this fast?
Austin says the most beautiful things, and the best part is, I know that he is being truthful. I can feel it in my heart, and I don’t want this feeling to ever stop.
Who can say what is normal and what isn’t? I already did “normal” and it didn’t work out, so I will start believing that all of this is perfect.
After we are both calmed down from the incredible sex we just had, Austin helps me put my swimsuit back on, and we return to the river.
This is simply magical, the cool water, my hot man, the beautiful foliage glistening in the sun.
I stare off into space, thinking how this cannot be real when Austin splashes me with water taking me back to the present. We eventually swim to the shore and dry ourselves with the towels Austin brought. I chuckle to myself because I am pretty sure that Austin planned this whole day knowing exactly how it would turn out; he has been prepared for everything.
“Why are you laughing?” Austin asks me, a curious smile playing on his lips.
“Well, I noticed that you are very prepared for today.”
“What do you mean?” he asks, tilting his head slightly.
“The lunch, the bathing suits, the towel. It’s like you knew exactly what we were going to end up doing,” I explain, my laughter bubbling up again.
Austin grins, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Maybe I did… Or maybe I just like to be prepared for anything.”
I shake my head, still smiling. “You’re something else, Austin.”
We finish drying off and sit on the grassy bank, enjoying the sun. The sound of the river provides a soothing backdrop, and I feel completely at peace. I lean against Austin, and he wraps his arm around me, pulling me close.
“This is perfect,” I say softly, feeling the contentment wash over me.
“It really is,” Austin agrees, his voice full of warmth. “I’m happy you are enjoying it.”
“I am,” I reply, turning my head to look at him. “Thank you, again, for bringing me here.”
“Anytime, beautiful,” he says, kissing my forehead gently. “I love seeing you happy.”
We sit in the grass for a while longer, basking in the moment.
Eventually, we gather our things and start making our way back up the trail. The hike back is filled with easy conversation that makes me feel more connected to Austin.
As we reach the parking lot, I realize how much this day has meant to me. It’s not just the beautiful scenery or the refreshing swim, it's the way Austin has made me feel cherished and loved.
Once we’re in the car, I turn to him and say, “Austin, today has been amazing.”
He takes my hand and squeezes it gently. “I’m glad you liked it, Violet. I loved every minute of it.”
I feel my heart swell with emotion. “I loved it, too, Austin. More than words can say.”
Austin gives me a tender kiss before he starts the car.
The happiness bubbling inside me is almost overwhelming. I never thought I could feel so light, so free, so...content.
“Are you hungry, beautiful?” Austin asks, glancing over with a smile that makes my heart flutter.
“Yes. What do you have in mind?” I ask, my curiosity piqued.
“I’m craving pizza,” he says, his eyes lighting up with a mischievous glint.
“Well, then let’s have some pizza,” I reply, matching his enthusiasm.
We decide to head to Slice of Heaven, the best pizzeria in town.
The familiar aroma of baking dough and melting cheese welcomes us as we step inside. At the counter, we order a pepperoni pizza—simple and delicious, just the way I like it. Austin takes my hand, leading me to a cozy booth by the window.
I notice a few people glancing in our direction—curious, but subtle. I ignore them and keep my attention on Austin. He’s laid-back, asking me simple questions—favorite movies, books, childhood stories—just trying to get to know me. His easygoing nature makes me relax, and before I realize it, I’m opening up more than I thought I would.
“So, tell me something funny,” I say, leaning back in my chair as I take a sip of my soda.
Austin smirks, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Let me think. There are so many stories, and all of them involve the guys.”
“I can’t wait to hear them,” I say.
He chuckles, running a hand through his hair as he starts. “Okay, so when we were in high school, my friends and I all had this massive crush on a girl named Angela. She was two years older than us, completely out of our league, and she knew it. But that didn’t stop us from being complete idiots about it.”
“Oh no,” I say, already laughing. “What did you guys do?”
“Well,” he says, leaning in conspiratorially, “Angela was the captain of the cheerleading team, so naturally, we decided to join the mascot squad—because that made sense, right? We thought it would impress her.”
I snort. “You? A mascot?”
He nods, grinning. “Yep. Picture this: three fifteen-year-old boys taking turns wearing a giant eagle costume that smelled like gym socks and regret.”
I burst out laughing, and he holds up a hand. “Wait, it gets better. One day, it’s my turn in the costume, and I’m out there on the sidelines, sweating buckets and trying to look cool—which is impossible when you’re an eagle doing the chicken dance. Anyway, Angela walks by, and I decide this is my moment. I flap my wings, try to strut toward her, and bam!”
“What happened?” I ask, practically choking on my laughter.
“I trip over the beak,” he says, slapping the table for emphasis. “I go down like a sack of bricks, right into the Gatorade cooler. The whole thing tips over, I’m soaking wet, and the cheerleaders are screaming because now their shoes are ruined.”
I’m doubled over, tears forming in my eyes. “Oh my God, no!”
“Oh yes,” he says, laughing along with me. “Angela didn’t even stop. She just walked right past me like I was part of the scenery. And the guys? They wouldn’t let me live it down for months. They called me “Floppy the Soaked Eagle” until graduation.”
I shake my head, still laughing. “Well, at least you were dedicated. That counts for something, right?”
Austin grins, leaning back in his chair. “Yeah, it counts as a cautionary tale for anyone who thinks giant bird costumes are a good way to get a date.”
We both dissolve into laughter, everything feels light and easy and I loving to get to know this man that is starting to capture my heart.
A few people I recognize from town stop by to say hello. But then I get that strange feeling of being watched. I glance to the side and catch a woman staring. She’s a regular at the coffee shop, though I’ve never caught her name. Her gaze is sharp, almost like she’s sizing me up, and it sends a cold shiver through me.
“What’s wrong?” Austin asks, noticing my discomfort.
“That woman over there is looking at me in a weird way,” I say, nodding subtly in her direction.
Austin turns slightly, his expression shifting as he sees her. He lets out a deep sigh. “That’s Megan. We dated in high school, and ever since I came back five years ago, she’s been nagging me about getting back together.”
I raise both of my brows in surprise. “Really? Have you dated anyone since you moved back?”
“Nope,” he says, shaking his head. “I told you, I was never intent on dating again. That was until I saw you.”
“You’re too sweet. But if I’m honest, Austin, she’s kinda creeping me out,” I admit, feeling a little uneasy.
“Just ignore her,” Austin says, squeezing my hand reassuringly.
The buzzer lights up signaling that our order is ready and Austin stands to pick up our order and we start eating.
I take his advice and focus on the easy conversation and the pizza in front of me. Austin’s presence is steady, grounding me, and the unease I felt earlier slowly fades. We chat about everything and nothing, the conversation flowing without a hitch. Just as we’re finishing up, my phone buzzes with a text.
Taylor: Hey, I got a call from work and I need to head back tomorrow morning. I will bring Adrian home in about an hour.
Me: Okay. Let me know when you guys are close so I can wait for Adrian outside.
Taylor:
I put my phone on the table and look at Austin.
“So, that was Taylor,” I say, crossing my arms and leaning against the table. My voice feels strained even to my own ears. “He’s bringing Adrian in about an hour. He had an emergency at work and needs to leave, so… I guess tonight is over.” I let out a sigh, not entirely sure if I’m relieved or disappointed.
“It’s okay, beautiful,” Austin says softly, his gaze steady and understanding. “This won’t be the only time we have together. Besides, I want to take Adrian fishing one of these afternoons, if that’s okay with you. I really want to get to know him better.”
My heart swells at his words, but just as quickly, a wave of uncertainty crashes over me. It’s not that I don’t want Adrian to spend time with Austin, I do. The thought of them bonding tugs at something deep inside me. But at the same time, my chest tightens with hesitation.
“That’s…really thoughtful of you,” I say, my voice quiet. “But, Austin, I don’t know if this is, if we’re moving too fast.” I run a hand through my hair, avoiding his gaze. “Adrian’s only just started adjusting to everything. He’s still processing the divorce, and I don’t want to confuse him.”
Austin leans closer, his expression soft but serious. “I get it, Violet. I know that this is new for both of us, and I’d never want to rush anything. But I also want you to know that I’m not just here for you, I care about Adrian too. I’m not trying to take over or push my way in. I just want to show him that I’m someone he can count on.”
I nod slowly, chewing on the inside of my cheek. “It’s not that I don’t trust you, Austin. It’s me. I’m scared.”
“Of what?” he asks gently.
“Of making the wrong choice. Of bringing someone into Adrian’s life and having it fall apart again.” My voice wavers as I let out a shaky breath. “He’s already been through so much. I don’t want to hurt him, Austin.”
Austin reaches for my hand, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “Violet, I can’t promise I’ll be perfect or that I’ll never make mistakes. But I can promise you this, I’ll never take the privilege of being in your lives lightly. I want to earn this, earn you.”
I look up at him, my eyes stinging with unshed tears. His sincerity is almost overwhelming, and for a moment, I feel like the weight on my chest lightens just a little.
“I’m scared,” I admit again, my voice barely above a whisper.
“I know,” he says, squeezing my hand gently. “And that’s okay. We’ll take this at whatever pace feels right for you and Adrian. I’m not going anywhere.”
His words settle something deep inside me, and though the fear doesn’t completely fade, it’s joined by a small flicker of hope.
“Fishing, huh?” I say, forcing a smile as I blink away the tears.
Austin grins, the tension easing just a little. “Yeah. There’s so much more that can teach him. He still doesn’t know how to catch the big ones.”
I nod, letting out a soft laugh despite myself. “Okay. Maybe fishing could be a good start later.”
And as Austin smiles down at me, I feel a tentative reassurance that maybe I can take this leap.
We finish our meal, and Austin drives us to my house. Austin places his hand on my lap and intertwines our fingers. His hand is warm and reassuring around mine. “Today was perfect,” I say, looking up at him.
“Yes, it was,” he replies, leaning in to kiss me gently.
When we get to my apartment, Austin walks me to my door and gives me a passionate kiss. If Adrian wasn’t coming soon, I would take him inside. But instead, I kiss him back, savoring these last few minutes together.
“Drive safe, and I’ll see you soon,” I say to Austin. But he doesn’t let me go.
“I can’t leave you. I want to be with you. This is torture,” he murmurs.
I laugh at his words just as my phone buzzes again in my pocket. I take it out and read the text.
Taylor: We’re about ten minutes away.
Me: Thanks, I’ll be outside.
Austin reads the message and says in my ear, “I guess I have less than ten minutes to kiss you senseless.”
And that he does. He kisses me and leaves me breathless. The cool night air can’t cool off my desire. I step back and look into Austin’s eyes. I bite my lower lip and give him a little peck.
Austin embraces me and leans his forehead against mine, and we just breathe together. Here under the light of the moon, I feel so happy. As Austin takes a step back, a car pulls up. We both turn and see Adrian and Taylor getting out of the car.
Adrian comes running with Max in his hands and gives me a big hug.
“Mom!” he holler, throwing his arms around me.
“Hey, buddy!” I say, hugging him tightly. “Did you have fun with your Dad?”
“Yeah, we went to the park and played all day!”
Adrian turns and fist bumps Austin. “Hey, dude. That’s a pretty dog. Let me see him.”Adrian pulls Max closer so Austin can pet and admire him. “His fur is so soft. What did you name him?”
“His name is Max. We got him at the animal shelter. I told you that Mom was going to buy me a puppy.”
“You sure did.” When Austin looks up, Taylor approaches, giving us a nod.
“Thanks for being flexible, Violet. I’ll call when I get back into town.” Taylor turns to Austin.
“Hi, I’m Taylor, Adrian’s dad,” he says, extending his hand.
Austin grabs his hand and says, “Nice to meet you. I’m Austin.”
That’s all Austin says, and I can feel the tension increasing on Taylor’s shoulders.
“Well, have a great night, guys,” Austin says to all of us. He turns to look at Adrian. “Adrian, what do you think if we go fishing sometime?”
Adrian beams with happiness. “Yeah! Can we take Max with us?”
“Sure. I will let your mom know when we can meet.”
“Perfect. See you soon.” Austin looks at me and gives me a kiss in the forehead before he walks to his car, hops in, and leaves.
I turn to my son and say, “Grab your stuff and put it inside.” Adrian places Max on the floor and gives me the leash, then goes to grab his things from the car.
“So, that’s the famous Austin,” Taylor says.
“Yep.”
“Adrian talked to me about him. It’s nice to put a face to the name. Violet, aren’t you going too fast with this dude?”
Is he for real? Yesterday, he was lamenting and saying that he was sorry, and today, he is back to his normal self. I shake my head with disdain.
“Taylor, what I do or don’t do is none of your concern,” I say firmly, crossing my arms. A part of me wonders where this sudden courage is coming from, but I’m glad it’s here. If he didn’t care what I did when we were together, why the hell does he care now?
“It is my concern because I care about you,” Taylor says, his voice strained. He runs a hand through his hair—a telltale sign of his frustration. “I know I messed up. I told you that yesterday, but man…” He pauses, his chest rising and falling as if searching for the right words. “I miss you, Violet. I miss my family. Isn’t there a way we can try again? I’m willing to go to therapy, to change. Just…please give me a chance.”
I blink, stunned. Is he serious right now? How the hell did I stand this man for so long? I must’ve been blind, willfully blind. Now that I can see him for who he really is, I can’t believe I ever stayed. I’m finally free, and there’s no way I’m letting him drag me back.
“Taylor,” I say, my voice steady, “there’s nothing in this world that would make me go back to you. If you want to change, fine, do it. But do it for yourself, or for the next woman you meet. Be a better man for her.” His face falls, but I press on, refusing to let his guilt derail me. “What you did to me was unforgivable. I stayed with you far longer than I should have, and I’ll regret that for the rest of my life. So please don’t bring this up again. Ever. What if Adrian overhears you? Do you realize what kind of false hope that could give him? It’s not fair to him, or to us. This is over, Taylor. It’s been over.”
A wave of pride swells in my chest. I feel like I’m truly standing up for myself, and it feels damn good.
“I know I was awful,” Taylor says quietly, his voice breaking. “I’m sorry, Violet. For everything.”
I shake my head. “You keep saying that you’re sorry, but words mean nothing without actions. One day, you’re full of remorse, and the next, you’re back to the same narcissistic bullshit. I can’t do this anymore. From now on, if you need something, email me. Or text me. But I don’t need to see you, and I don’t want to hear your voice.” His jaw tightens, and I can see him bristling at my words, but I don’t stop. “I’m moving on, Taylor. I’m building a life for myself, one without you in it. That doesn’t mean I’ll stand in the way of you and Adrian. You’ll see him whenever the court allows, during your part of the summer, at Christmas, but don’t confuse that with having a relationship with me. Those days are gone.”
Taylor stares at me for a moment, his expression a mix of frustration and sadness. “Violet?—”
“Have a safe trip, Taylor,” I cut him off, my voice final. I’ve said everything I needed to say, and there’s nothing more to add. I watch as he nods stiffly, his shoulders sagging in defeat. When he finally walks away, I let out a long breath, relief washing over me. For once, I feel completely in control of my life, and I’m not about to let anyone take that from me.
As Taylor drives away I stare at the night sky and take a deep breath before heading inside. My heart is full, not just from the joy of standing up for myself, but from the promise of a future with Austin.
Later, as I tuck Adrian into bed, he tells me more about his day. "Mom, Dad bought Max all these toys and treats. We stayed up late watching movies and we also ate candy and ice cream. It was so fun!"
"I'm glad you had a great time, sweetie," I say, kissing his forehead. "Now get some sleep."
I walk to my room and lie in bed, then I start to think about today and how much fun I had with Austin.
His kindness, his interest in Adrian, and the way he makes me feel—all of it points to something real, something worth holding onto.