21. Tanner
Chapter Twenty-One
Tanner
No expectations, just pizza
I kept turning Casey’s “fresh start” comment over in my mind. Later that afternoon, I planned to stop by my mom’s house and ponder the sliver of tension that had never gone away between us. Someday, we’d have to talk. I just didn’t know if I’d be the one to initiate it or if she would.
I knew she had been as much a target of my father’s behavior as I had, as had my sister.
Yet I couldn’t help but wonder why she hadn’t protected us more.
Then there was Laney who was long gone. On occasion, I’d see her, though we never made a point of spending time together.
Just a nod in passing when she visited her parents.
I thought about how she’d said this small town made her feel trapped.
Oddly, I’d never felt that. Even when I’d felt trapped when my father was alive, it wasn’t about the town. It was about the dynamic at home. But I loved Willow Brook. It was home.
My phone buzzed just as I climbed into the truck after loading the groceries. I glanced down, seeing Ava, Ava, Ava! flash on the banner. I chuckled at how she’d named herself in my phone.
Ava: Tanner! I just want to thank you again for dinner and everything last night.
Great leftovers for lunch. I’m currently on season three of Grey’s Anatomy.
I’m very caught up in the drama. Although I’m a little annoyed at the guy who was so popular—you know the one.
He can’t keep his hands to himself with anyone.
I was already grinning when I read the next line. Speaking of… your hands are amazing.
A bolt of heat zipped through me just as another text came in.
Ava: When can I see you again?
I let out a breath. My body and my heart wanted to see her now. Hell, every day. But this was temporary. I had to keep that front and center in my mind.
Laney had made a few things clear before she left. Among other jabs, she accused me of wanting to settle down too quickly. She’d said commitment was too much a part of my personality. Whatever the fuck that meant.
Yeah, my cynical brain chimed in. Don’t go screwing this up with Ava by wanting a whole lot more than you can even have.
Even if Josie had some harebrained idea that Ava should find a fresh start here in Willow Brook, it wasn’t likely. Ava had a whole life, and that life was not here. I tapped out a reply.
Me: Happy to bring over dinner anytime.
That was vague enough and put the ball in her court. I tossed my phone on the passenger seat and started the truck, telling myself not to expect a quick reply.
The phone vibrated as I started to back out. Pausing, I lifted it again.
Ava: Tonight? Please? I know I’m feeling bossy and maybe a little needy, but I’m lonely. Apparently, I’m hosting card night here in two nights, but until then, I need company.
My lips curled into another smile.
Me: Tell me what you want for dinner, and I’ll bring it over.
Ava: I could cook.
Me: You could? That seems like a lot. You’d be on your feet.
Ava: Okay, pizza. I’m in the mood for pizza.
Me: Just tell me what you’d like, and I’ll pick it up.
Ava: You can’t be driving out, ferrying food to me, and doing everything. Let me at least pay tonight.
Me: Fine. You can call and order it.
Ava: Do you have the number?
Me: Yes, ma’am.
Ava: Yes, sir.
I laughed aloud.
Me: No need to call me sir.
Ava: I kind of think it’s hot.
I laughed again as I replied.
Me: Whatever works for you.
I sent her the phone number for the pizza place and pulled onto the road, telling myself—again—not to have expectations. I could do that. I hadn’t had expectations of anyone since Laney left.
No expectations. None.