6. Anya
TWO YEARS LATER
CHAPTER 6
Ialways thought I would graduate and get a job in a big vet hospital, but moving into a small town has its own perks. I can be part of a close-knit community, go for a stroll at midnight, and work part-time in a small vet clinic that belongs to Professor White.
More importantly, I’ll have enough time to look after my little munchkin.
Kira’s giggle captures my attention. I crane my neck toward the living room, where she’s sprawled on the monologue rug, playing with Gianna. We moved into Meadowvale last night, and I’m still unpacking the things we brought with us.
When I told my parents I was pregnant, they immediately cut their travels short and stayed with me. I am forever grateful to them for taking care of me and Kira, but I couldn't continue to keep them around and not live the life they want. I struggled working a nine-to-five job and taking care of Kira at the same time. Getting a nanny was expensive. I decided to move since Gianna is here.
Two weeks ago, Gianna told me about an opening in a small vet clinic in Meadowvale, where she has lived for two years now. The pay wasn’t like what I earned in the city, but it was fair considering I’d be working just five hours a day and I would get a free one bed apartment to stay in.
I quickly jumped on the offer and to my surprise, the clinic actually belonged to Mr. White. Small world.
“Gigi, can you help me unpack?” I ask as I clean out the kitchen cabinets. I’ve been busy all morning and Gianna had offered to help, but she hasn’t moved a hand since she came in. She’s obsessed with Kira and won’t do anything but play with her.
Gianna playfully pokes Kira's nose and my daughter responds with a joyful giggle, trying to poke her aunt's nose in return. At only one year and two months old, she already resembles Brandon so much that it's uncanny. They share the same warm brown eyes and dark hair, as well as an infectious smile and mischievous nature.
Brandon.
I’ve not mentioned that name in two years, but my heart still skips a beat whenever I think of him. I went to the bar a couple more times after I found out I was pregnant; still, I couldn’t get anything on him. It’s like he just vanished into thin air.
I attempted to find him on social media by searching for his name, but with a common name like Brandon, it was nearly impossible. I despise him so much that if we were to cross paths again, I'd probably kick him where it hurts. However, as much as I loathe him, I also wish for his well-being and hope that maybe he just vanished because he's a jerk.
Gianna lowers her face so Kira can reach her nose. “I’m busy enough as it is, Anya. Can’t you see?’
“No, I can’t see.” I put some plates into the cabinet, and then some wine glasses and mugs. “You said you’d help.”
“I’m helping.” She looks at me, and then back at Kira. They both chuckle as if they’re sharing some secret. “I’m keeping my niece busy. She’s all that matters.”
I can't help but roll my eyes and let out a groan. Gianna is so good with Kira, it's impossible not to smile at them. After I gave birth, she visited me every weekend, and Kira has grown quite fond of her. "If you don't come over and help me, I'll make you babysit every night," I tease. Gianna effortlessly scoops up Kira from the floor and stands up, carrying her into the kitchen as she strolls along.
Kira opens her arms to me. “Mama.”
I grin widely, making my face scrunch up as I playfully tickle her.
It's been two years since I made the decision to keep her, and I have never once regretted it. Having her in my life brings me more joy than I ever imagined. If given the chance to go back to that fateful night with Brandon, I would make the same choice again. Kira was not planned, but she is not a mistake either. She is the greatest blessing in my life.
Her tiny teeth peek out as she giggles uncontrollably; she is absolutely adorable. "Mama," she says once more, reaching out her arms for a hug.
I take her from Gianna and kiss her forehead. “How are you, baby? Did you miss Mommy?”
Her response is reaching for my breast. I know for a fact that she’s not hungry, since I fed her ten minutes ago.
“I’ll babysit Kira on one condition.”
I groan. I already know what she’ll say before she says it. “Don’t.”
“Go on a date,” she whispers as if she doesn’t want anyone else to hear us. “You’re still very young.”
“I’m twenty-five.”
“Still young,” she repeats dryly, folding her arms over her chest. “Find a better excuse.”
That has been my specialty for months now, coming up with excuses to avoid meeting new guys. “Kira is still a baby.”
Gianna shakes her head in disbelief. "So, no dating until she's eighteen?" She waves away my explanation with a dismissive gesture. "Think of another excuse."
I pause to think, but I know deep down that my reasons are more than just excuses. My daughter is still a young child who needs all of my time and attention. I don't want to divide my presence between her and someone else. However, Gianna doesn't seem satisfied with this reasoning. Truthfully, there is another reason why I'm avoiding dating.
I had only known Brandon for a couple of days, but he left a lasting impression on me. Out of all the men I've met, none have made me feel the way he did. Most of them were arrogant and not worth my time anyway; they weren't my type at all. "Someday, when the timing is right," I say thoughtfully. "I know I'll meet someone special. But right now, my focus is on raising my daughter."
My cousin sighs. She gives me a pitiful look. “I know I’m being pushy about this, I’m sorry. I just want you to live your life. I don’t want you to have any regrets in the future.”
Kira squeals something in baby language and I laugh. She sounds like she’s yelling at Gianna.
“I’d walk through fire and give up my life for Kira, and I would still not regret it.” It’s simply the truth. I’d do anything for my daughter. Anything at all.
As a group of girls about my age walk by outside the window, their laughter catches my attention. I try not to listen in, but one of them utters, "He's back." I have no idea who they're talking about, but all four of them are cracking up, and it makes me curious.
"Who could they be talking about?" I inquire. It seems like I'm the newest member added to the list of people living in this gossip-filled small town.
“Mr. Jackson’s son,” Gianna answers. She walks to a box on the kitchen counter and begins to take out some spices.
“Mr. Jackson?” The name rings a bell because it’s Spencer’s last name. Funny how that asshole hasn’t crossed my mind in so long. “Who is that?”
“Just a guy who raises cattle,” she says nonchalantly, while organizing the spices in the cabinet. “His son is a highly trained Navy SEAL, and he hasn’t been home for at least two years now. Something about a top-secret mission.”
I try to contain my curiosity, but I can't help wanting to know more. Maybe I'll use this opportunity to make a move on him if everyone else is excited about his return. He must be someone important or unique.
Gianna narrows her eyes suspiciously. “You’re too curious for someone who doesn’t have any interest in dating.”
I raise my shoulders. “Well, who doesn’t want to hear about a hot man?”
Her brows lift. “I never said he was hot.”
My cheeks warm with a blush. “Those girls wouldn’t be talking about him if he wasn’t.” I wink at her and she scrunches her face. I laugh.
“Well, he’s hot,” she finally admits. “As tall as a tower. Broad shoulders, and a face I think was carved by God himself. He’s totally your type.”
I remember Brandon looked exactly like that. “I think he is too, but I can’t say for sure unless I see him.” Holding Kira in one hand, I walk to my cousin and poke her ribs. “Mind if we go for a little stroll by the Jackson house later?”
She gives me a knowing smile. “So you can take a peek and judge for yourself?”
I nod shamelessly. Honestly, I think I’m the biggest gossip around here. “What do you say?”
Without hesitation, she replies, "I'm all in. I haven't laid eyes on that handsome face of his in two years."
Her cheeks turn a shade of pink and I tease, "Do you have a crush on him?"
"Just a bit," she admits with a hint of shyness. "What if we both have an intense crush on him?"
I let out a carefree laugh and quip, "May the best woman win."
We both share a lighthearted moment, joined by Kira's sweet giggle. In that moment, my heart is filled with warmth from this precious little human. She has me wrapped around her tiny fingers, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
A gentle knock reverberates in the room. We both spin our heads to the door. Gianna is back to putting things in the cabinet.
“Are you getting that?”
“Yeah.” I put Kira down and walk to the door.
When I open it, Mr. White and a woman I haven’t seen before are staring back at me with a smile. She’s beautiful, with brown eyes and light brown hair. Even the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes and mouth are gorgeous. She must’ve been a stunner when she was around my age. My first guess is that she’s his wife.
I smile back at both of them.
“Hello, new neighbor,” Mr. White says. He glances past my shoulders. “I see you’re still settling in.”
I palm my forehead and sigh to show my exhaustion. “There’s so much to do, and I have to start work tomorrow.”
“You can take an extra day off,” he says. “I understand how stressful this is for you.”
“Can I?” I don’t try to be humble and contradict him. I can’t give him a chance to change his mind. “Thank you so much, Mr. White.”
I look at the lady beside him and wait for an introduction. That is when I notice she’s holding a pie. My stomach immediately rumbles. I’ve only had a slice of cake and some orange juice since morning.
“This is Mrs. Jackson. Her family owns the only ranch in town,” Mr. White says to me, and then he drags his attention to Mrs. Jackson. “This is Anya, my ex- student and now my employee.”
Mrs. Jackson’s smile widens as she holds out a hand to me. “Nice to meet you, Anya. Welcome to Meadowvale.”
“Nice to meet you too, Mrs. Jackson.” It’s hard to take my eyes off the pie she’s holding. I nearly jump on my toes when she holds it out. “It’s yours.”
As she hands me the pie, I can't help but feel grateful and nearly send her a kiss. "Thank you," I say with appreciation. "I was famished. "
"I figured as much. Moving takes its toll." Her lips stretch into a smile. "On another note, I'm having a small dinner gathering at my house tonight and I wanted to invite you. I know you must be too busy to cook, and I'd love for you to meet some of my family."
My initial thoughts are to just put Kira to bed and fall asleep myself, but I can't pass up the opportunity to socialize and possibly see that handsome navy guy. "I would love to join."
"It's settled then. See you later."
"Thank you." I wave goodbye as they leave before closing the door behind them.
Gianna inhales when I walk in with the pie. “That smells so good. Mrs. Jackson makes the best pies around here.”
The sweet aroma of freshly baked pie filled the kitchen as I carefully set it on the counter. Gianna's eyes widened at the sight and smell of it.
"I'll give you half of the pie," I said with a playful smile, "in return for a favor."
She raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "What do you need?’’
I leaned in closer. "Babysit Kira tonight."
It’s 7 p.m., time for dinner with the Jacksons. It’s been barely an hour since we finished setting up the apartment, and Kira falls asleep after her dinner. Gianna agreed to watch her for tonight so I have nothing to worry about.
“Are you going dressed like that?” Gianna asks as I step out of my room. She’s lounging on the couch, swiping through an ebook.
I glance down on myself. I’m wearing a pink summer dress that stops just above the knee. “What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”
“Everything. How are you going to get his attention dressed like that?” she asks, dropping her phone beside her and turning her full attention to me. “You need to show a little more cleavage and—”
I raise my hand to stop her. “It’s a family dinner, Gigi, not a strip show. Plus, I have my pretty face to rely on.”
She yawns as if it’s the most boring thing she’s ever heard. “You’re pretty, but the cleavage—”
I flash a middle finger at her and start walking to the door before she can react to it. “Take care of you and Kira. I’ll be back after dinner!”
“You’re such a mom,” she yells after me as I walk out of the house and shut the door.
I don’t care if being a mom is my entire personality. I’ll own it with everything in me. I also don’t want a guy who likes me for my cleavage. It’ll be gone when I stop breastfeeding anyway, and I’ll be back to an A cup.
The streets of Meadowvale are peaceful compared to the bustling city I'm used to. The trees provide a beautiful backdrop against the night sky, illuminated by street lamps and the moon and stars above. I wish I could stay outside and gaze at the enchanting view. It doesn't take me long to reach the Jackson household, a charming bungalow with white and gray siding.
From outside, I can see Mrs. Jackson and a girl playing and giggling inside through the windows. Their joy is infectious even from afar.
I reach out to knock, but withdraw my hand and draw in a breath. I haven’t been around a happy family like this one in a long time. My palms are slick with sweat, and my heart races as I raise my hand to knock on the door. I count to 10 before finally bringing my fist down.
I hear tiny footsteps. The door is flung open and a small girl with big blue eyes and blond hair is standing in front of me. She looks seven or eight, I’m not sure, but she’s beautiful.
“Hey,” I say softly, not entirely certain of the best way to introduce myself. “I’m Anya, your…”
“Alessa, who’s that?” Mrs. Jackson calls from inside.
I exhale in relief as she comes to the door. Her brown eyes lighten and she smiles pleasantly. “Anya, darling, come on in.”
My gaze darts to the small girl. She’s watching me intently as if I’m a piece of art she’s trying to decipher.
“She’s my granddaughter, Alessa. She’s not used to having new people around,” Mrs. Jackson says as I walk inside.
I squat in front of Alessa. “Do you mind if I join you and your family for dinner?”
She shrugs her little shoulders. “I don’t mind. You’re beautiful just like granny said. And my daddy needs a girlfriend.”
I laugh and wonder who her daddy is. “I’ll tell you a secret. I have a daughter too. She’s one.’’ She gasps, her eyes widening in surprise. "A baby?"
I reassure her that I think they will get along well when they meet. She smiles and admits that she has always wanted a sister. However, her expression changes as she remembers something. She pouts and sadly tells me that her father said it might be difficult because she doesn't have a mother. I feel a pang of pity for her and regret bringing up the topic.
Thankfully, Mrs. Jackson interrupts us by inviting us inside where the others are waiting. I offer my hand to Alessa, and she seems shy but takes it. Together we enter the house, leaving Mrs. Jackson to close the door behind us.
The delicious smell of food greets us in the foyer - grilled turkey wings, mashed potatoes, and other mouth-watering dishes that make my stomach growl.
No, I am ravenous.
I enjoyed the pie Mrs. Jackson brought in the afternoon, but I think I’ll also like her cooking very much.
“Anya, glad you could make it,” Mr. White says.
My legs come to a stop, my throat tightens and my heart races as I come face to face with someone next to Mr. White, someone I never imagined seeing again.
Those piercing brown eyes that have haunted my dreams for the past two years meet mine, their intensity causing an involuntary shiver to run down my spine. They're colder and darker than I remember, but there's no mistaking who they belong to. The familiar strong jawline and thick brows frame a face that once held so much love and betrayal.
Sitting next to him is Spencer Jackson, my ex-boyfriend who cheated on me and left me broken. His features mirror Brandon's in a way that makes me almost sick to my stomach. It takes a moment for it to fully register - they're brothers. It all starts to make sense now why he reminded me so much of my shitty ex.
My daughter's father and her uncle are sitting side by side, both staring at me with different expressions - one cold and distant, the other filled with regret and surprise. It's like seeing two versions of the same person, each with their own unique twist.
Oh shit, it dawns on me that I will be stuck in the middle of a significant family drama.