Chapter 15 #3
“It’s okay to find happiness while in your waiting place.
I’ve worked my way through some of the darkest days I’ve ever had that way.
After Journee was born and things with Max went to hell, I was drowning in sorrow, regret, and uncertainty.
” The hurt in her words is palpable. The spoiled rich boy decided responsibility didn’t suit his lifestyle once Journee arrived and promptly drew up papers.
She got full custody, uncontested, and he paid a fair child support payment and was free to live his life.
He occasionally had Journee over for family events.
“The longer I remain here, the more I lose myself. It frightens me,” I admit.
“Maybe it’s the opposite. This is who you were and who you are, melding as one.”
I pushed the thought away. It’s not that easy. “Perhaps?”
“Since you’re feeling all warm and fuzzy, do I get to meet Mr. Sunshine now?”
“Ugh,” I groan.
“Don’t think I’ve forgotten about earlier.”
“We can go now if you want,” I mumble.
“Done.” She sweeps from the storage area like a villain in a cape. “I want to go now before you change your mind,” she calls out.
“Journee, are you ready to go see some of Aunt Phil’s work? It’s princesses.”
“Really?”
I laugh. She looks at me with eyes the size of the moon.
I hold out my hand. Taking it without hesitation, she further endears herself to me.
This little girl always had my heart. Seeing her now drives home just how much I’ve missed her.
She takes Story’s hand, and we walk together, swinging her as we go.
Her giggles chase away the nerves trying to surface.
We walk into Reel Haven, and Korren looks up from his spot behind the counter.
Our gazes lock, and I melt. The wide grin that spreads across his full lips makes my lower belly tighten.
The green shirt with the updated white logo worn over his white Henley highlights the incredible shade of his eyes.
“Welcome, ladies. It looks like you brought some friends, Pepper.” He moves toward us.
“I did. This is my best friend since freshman year of college, Story, and my goddaughter, Journee. She came to see the princesses.”
“Aaah! The incredible Journee I’ve heard so much about.”
She turns to me. “You told him about me?” she whispers.
“Of course I did. You’re my favorite person.”
She beams.
“It’s nice to meet you, Story.” He holds out his hand.
She shakes it. “Likewise, Korren. I’ve heard so much about you.”
He smirks at me. “Is that right? Good things, I hope?”
“Lately, yes.”
He laughs. “We had an interesting origin story.”
Journee tugs at my hand. “Are those the princesses?” She points toward the family movie section. The billowing blue dress peeks out from the section.
“It is. You want to go see them?”
“You two go ahead. I’m going to get to know our new friend, Korren.” Story grins.
Groaning mentally, I reluctantly leave the two alone. We round the corner, and Journee gasps. “They’re beautiful.” Tiana, Cinderella, and Ariel stand together.
The character has a face cut out for kids to pose in. I used the deep purple shade for the ball gown with Journee in mind.
“That’s my favorite color, Aunt Phil.”
“I know. Want to take photos?”
She nods. I forget to worry about what the two are chatting about a few feet away and enjoy the tiny being at my side. Stepping behind the sign, she turns up the sass. I pull my phone out of my bib.
“Photo shoot, Princess Journee,” I call. She places a hand on her hip. She is so much like her mother.
“You two are having way too much fun.” Story appears.
“I think your mom needs to pose too.”
“Yes. Come on, Mommy.” Journee darts from behind the cutout and grabs her hand.
“It’s your turn to play photographer, Nee.” I hand her my phone.
Stepping back, I watch amused as Story follows Jorunee’s detailed instructions. Time to let her be in the hot seat.
“They’re great.” Korren joins me.
“Yeah, they surprised me with the visit. I’ve missed them immensely.”
“So, you talk about me?” He asks out of the blue.
“Maybe. Is that okay?” I bite my lower lip.
“I like knowing I matter so much to you.” He clears his throat. “‘Cause I talk about you too.”
His body brushes against mine. “You mean a lot to me, Phil. I hope you know that.”
“I feel the same way,” I whisper.
“So, we’re doing this, whatever it is?” He asks.
“I thought we already were.”
“I like clarification. I’m not looking for assurances, but I do need you to be truthful and keep me updated. If anything changes.” He inhales sharply. “Tell me.”
I reach out and grab his hand. “Hey. I will.”
“Good.”
I run my thumb up and down his skin. His ex hurt him badly. I won’t join that list.
“I don’t know what my future holds, Korren.”
“I know. I’m not asking for that. I just can’t be left in the dark.”
“You’re Mr. Sunshine. I understand you need light. I won’t leave you alone in the darkness.”
“Thank you.”
His sincere response is refreshing. He’s so transparent, it’s hard to feel apprehensive.
He makes everything feel so easy. I don’t walk on eggshells or worry about being misunderstood.
He’s not too good to be true; we mesh well.
That’s made all the difference. This is how a relationship should be.
The small, wounded survivor in me speaks.
But that’s not what this is. It could be.
Standing in the peaceful pause while we watch Story and Journee, I’m tempted.