I shrug as I continue drying dishes. “The heart wants what the heart wants.”
“Yes, but…”
I shake my head. “I’m married to him, Mom. Leo treats me as if I’m precious. He cares about my opinions and dreams. Honestly…” I lock eyes with her again. “…He’s the most amazing man I’ve ever met. I’m lucky to have him.”
Mom’s chin quivers. “I just want the best for you, sweetheart.”
My voice is filled with confidence as I reply, “Leo is the best.”
Her gaze searches mine, then she nods. “As long as you’re happy.”
Changing the topic, I ask, “Are you excited to move into your own house?”
Mom shakes her head. “Martina and I have been talking. I’m thinking about staying with her. We have a lot in common, and I like spending time with her.”
“And you’re only telling me this now?” I gasp.
“You’ve had so much to deal with, Haven.”
“Yes, but this is good news! Right?”
Mom smiles as she nods. “It’s nice having a friend.”
I throw my arm around her waist and give her a hug. “I’m so happy to hear that, Mom.”
“So, if I’m staying here, what do we do about the house Leo bought?”
I shrug and think for a moment before coming up with an idea. “We can still decorate it, then whenever Kristen comes to visit, she can stay there.”
“That’s a good idea,” Mom agrees.
When we’re done with the dishes, we walk to the living room and overhear a conversation between Leo and his mother.
“You can sell the house,” Mrs. Toscano says as we enter the living room.
“Are you sure?” he asks. “You’ve lived alone for a long time.”
“It’s nice having someone around,” Mrs. Toscano admits. “Dakota and I have become close.”
“If that’s what you want, Mamma, I’m good with it.”
We walk into the living room, and it has Leo looking at me. “Did your mother tell you she’s decided to stay here?”
“Yes.” I sit down beside him and place my hand on his thigh.
Leo wraps his arm around my shoulders, then says, “I’ll sell the house.”
“Can we keep it for when Kristen comes to visit? Then she has her own space while staying here.”
“Sure.” He kisses me on the forehead. “Anything for you.”
We visit for a little longer before we leave. On the way home, I think about everything that’s happened and how much my life has changed.
As Leo steers the car along the long stretch of road on the side of a hill, I stare out the window at the moonlight shining on the ocean.
“I can’t wait to see Kristen,” I mention to Leo. “She gives the best hugs.”
“As long as she doesn’t touch me,” Leo says. “This body belongs to you.”
