Tame the Beast : Small Beach Town, Single Mom Romance

“Har har, Snickers, you are just jealous of my game.”

“Fanny, the only thing I’m jealous of is your big head and karate skills.”

“What about my impeccable style?” She points to her neon orange track suit and Jenny wrinkles her nose.

“I am saying this with all the love and care.” Her smile turns saccharine sweet then drops. “No.”

I watch in fascination as they all start bickering with each other and even Mel seems to be interested in their ridiculous conversations because she’s slowed her crying and now only whimpers quietly. How are they all best friends?

“Go.” Joy pushes me out and I head to the bedroom at the end of the hall.

Having these amazing people come to my rescue fills me with both gratitude and guilt. I shouldn’t have to rely on others to help me with my daughter.

I can do it all.

Except, as that thought goes through my head, a whole other one overshadows it. It’s not really a thought, it’s a memory of Matteo and his excitement to be a dad. I bet he wouldn’t let anyone near Mellie. I bet he would want to do it all by himself too.

And I wouldn’t say no to Matteo’s help. Not that he would be interested. What twenty-three-year-old wants to get involved with an older woman who has a baby on top of that.

Yet as I fall asleep, I imagine his strong arms wrapped around me, telling me to rest while he takes care of our daughter.

I’m aware it’s a dangerous dream to have, but that’s all I have left, so let me cherish it a while longer.

Love Hive:

Willoflove: Did you all see how tired my poor Zoe is?

Ninasunshine: That girl was about to pass out when we showed up.

CookieJ: She is also stubborn as a mule, refusing to accept the help.

Toughtolove: When did that ever stand before us, ladies?

Willoflove: You are right, Fanny. We took a step back after that day at the hospital, but I think it was a mistake.

Toughtolove: That’s what I’ve been telling you all for the past three weeks! But noooo, no one listens to little, poor old Fanny.

CookieJ: Please don’t be modest on our account. You forgot to add terrifying, delusional, crazy, and a few more adjectives.

Toughtolove: Snickers, are you still salty that your youngest daughter loves me more?

CookieJ: SHE DOES NOT!

Toughtolove: Whatever you need to tell yourself.

Willoflove: Okay…let’s all inhale and exhale a few times.

Willoflove: Jenny, please go make yourself that Calming Spirit tea I got you. Fanny, you should finally try that Humble Garden I made specially for you.

Willoflove: Should I make some tea for Zoe?

Toughtolove: Only if it will include a few drops of your son in there.

Ninasunshine: Fanny is right.

CookieJ: What?

Ninasunshine: Zoe needs someone to be there for her. Someone she can rely on and not feel guilty about asking for help like she does with us.