Total pages in book: 125
Estimated words: 119680 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 598(@200wpm)___ 479(@250wpm)___ 399(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 119680 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 598(@200wpm)___ 479(@250wpm)___ 399(@300wpm)
Mom motions to the chair across from her. “Why don’t you put your bags down and have a seat, honey.” If there’s one thing my parents don’t allow, it’s running away from tough conversations.
Winter sets the duffle and backpack by the stairs. Her swallow is audible as she pads across the room. Her eyes meet mine briefly as she pulls out the chair opposite my mom and sits. I take the one beside her and skim the back of her hand, but she snatches it away and shoves it between her legs. Yeah. She’s taken a right turn into Up-Shit-Creek-Ville.
“It’s gonna be okay,” I whisper.
She glances at me out of the corner of her eye. She’s gone as white as a sheet, and her upper lip is sweating.
“Would either of you like some coffee?” Mom asks.
Winter looks confused by the offer.
“That’d be good, thanks,” I reply. I turn to Winter. “How about you?”
“Um, okay. Yes, please?” Her knees bounce, so she covers them with her hands.
While my mom pours two coffees, my dad brings over the cream and sugar. “You have a chance to share the news about the scouts with BJ?” Dad says.
“Uh, yeah. I told him.” Her voice is pitchy.
“Good. We can make that call whenever you’re ready.” He nods a few times, then looks to Mom, like he’s waiting for direction.
“Okay.” Winter seems extra confused by my dad’s easygoing demeanor.
That makes sense. There probably weren’t many discussions in her house. Just her dad losing his shit whenever he didn’t like what was happening.
Mom sets the coffees in front of us. Winter’s hands shake as she pours cream into hers and two heaping teaspoons of sugar. I take mine black.
“So, we have a few things we’d like to discuss, but in light of recent developments, we might need to adjust some of those plans,” Mom says.
“What are you talking about?” I ask, worried for the first time that there will be backlash for this. “We didn’t do anything wrong. I mean… We were safe.”
Mom raises her hand. “I’m not talking about what I walked in on this morning. But while we’re on that topic, I understand that you’re both adults, capable of making adult decisions, so I hope those decisions will include continuing to be safe.”
“I have no intention of ending up like my mom,” Winter blurts, taking a huge gulp of her coffee.
Mom gives Winter a soft smile. “I was the result of an unplanned pregnancy, and my mom raised me on her own, with no support from my biological father. So I understand and appreciate not wanting to repeat history, Winter. However, mistakes happen, so I don’t want either of you to think we won’t be here to help and support. But doing your part and staying safe, especially with you both still in college, is important. Which brings us to the next piece.” Mom looks to Dad.
Winter looks flabbergasted. She raises her hand. “I have a question.”
“Okay.” Mom smiles and waits.
“You’re not upset with us?”
Mom tips her head, her expression softening. “Of course not. You two share a very real and obvious connection. You’re being safe. That’s what’s important. Is that why you brought your bags down? You thought we were going to be so upset that we’d ask you to leave?”
Winter bites her lips together and nods.
Mom reaches across the island and gives her hand a squeeze. “In this house, we talk things through. You’re not being irresponsible, or putting yourself at risk, and even if you were, it would be a discussion with a plan. Not us kicking you out, okay?”
“Okay. Thank you for being so understanding.”
“Of course, honey. Do you feel a little better?”
Winter nods.
“Great. Well, now that that’s handled.” Dad claps his hands. “Lily and I were talking about the housing situation come fall. We know there are options for both dorms and off-campus housing and apartments, and that the revised offer from the college comes with a housing stipend—”
“Kody’s room is still empty at our place,” I jump in. “Quinn hasn’t found anyone to take it yet. Winter can stay there. Then accommodations are covered, and Winter can use the housing stipend for something else.” It’s fucking genius, really. I can’t believe I didn’t think of it until now. Well, last night I was a little busy giving and getting orgasms, but now that my brain is mostly clear, I’m coming up with bomb-ass ideas.
Winter gives me a disbelieving look.
Mom arches a brow and fights a smile. “Originally that was our thought too. But considering recent developments, it would probably be best to make some adjustments.”
“Why? This is perfect. And it makes the most financial sense. Why should Winter waste money on rent when we have an open room?” I argue.
“We don’t—” Dad starts, but the front door opens, the alarm beeping once. A code is punched in, which tells me exactly who it is.