Chapter 25
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
KENSINGTON, TEXAS
According to the University of Kassel (2023), one-third of romantic partners engage in deceptive tactics.
—The Fireside Psychologist
I tried to reach Fallon earlier, but she hasn’t answered her phone or replied to any texts.
“That’s unusual for her. Even if she picks up a shift at Galileo’s, she normally lets me know.” Still, a grin crosses my lips. My Fallon doesn’t know the meaning of the word relax. I saunter into my kitchen to grab a beer when my phone pings.
Fallon:
Sorry. I was caught up with Mama.
Ethan:
No worries, witch.
Fallon:
Can I talk with you tomorrow?
Fallon:
I’m going to be here with her for a while.
Ethan:
Everything okay?
The dots move as Fallon formulates her next thought. I wait with more than a bit of concern, knowing that Fallon is as close to her mother as my niece and sister are—both women treating their mothers like best friends.
Fallon:
She’s caught up in something, so I’m keeping her company.
Ethan:
Enjoy your night with your mother, witch.
Ethan:
We’ll catch up later.
Fallon:
How many days is it until you’re here?
Ethan:
Two weeks.
Ethan:
Hand to god, I can’t wait until we’re in the same room together.
Fallon:
Me neither.
Satisfied with that, I leave Fallon to spend time with her mother since I plan on consuming every inch of her body, mind, and soul the minute my plane touches down in North Carolina.
I just hope Fallon’s ready to leave every thought behind because I don’t plan on letting her think about anything but us.