Chapter 50
Chapter 50:
“Sorry,” I muttered, dropping my gaze to the floor.
Suddenly, I felt awkward and out of place, counting the seconds until the ride was over. To distract myself, I pulled out my phone and pretended to check something important. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Winona let out a soft sigh, shaking her head with a conspiratorial look. She’d caught me completely.
“We’re here,” Felix announced.
Relief washed over me, and I got out as quickly as I could, grateful for the cool night air. I knew I had to pull myself together if I wanted the evening to go smoothly. Taking Winona’s hand, I helped her out of the car.
“Ready for this?” I asked, trying to sound steadier than I felt.
“As ready as I can be. Davidson, you really need to relax. If you keep acting this nervous, this isn’t going to work,” she said, giving me a pointed look.
𝘋i𝘀сov𝘦𝘳 𝗻ew 𝗌to𝗋𝗂𝖾𝘴 оո ѕ.𝖼𝗈𝗺
Normally she was the one with nerves of steel, not me. Tonight, though, she noticed every slip, every uneasy glance. Giving in, I offered her a confident smile and pulled her closer with an arm around her waist, guiding us toward the bright lights of the lobby.
“Davidson, you’re here!” my mother exclaimed the moment we walked in.
“Hi, Mom. How have you been?” I answered, matching her enthusiasm.
“Now that I’ve seen you, I feel much better. It’s been far too long since your last visit.” Her hug lingered, and I returned it just as warmly.
The truth was, I’d been avoiding everyone these past few weeks, hiding whenever I could. When my mother pulled back, her attention shifted to Winona, still tucked securely under my arm.
“Winona, my goodness, you look incredible tonight. Leona’s been spreading rumors about you and Davidson, but honestly, it sounded like she was just trying to stir the pot,” my mother said, unable to hide her amusement.
Winona stiffened. She struggled to find the right words, clearly anxious about facing my mother. Lying to her was the last thing Winona wanted, but this act was necessary for now. I hated putting her in that position.
“We’re just spending time together, Mom—keeping things simple. Don’t read too much into it, alright?” I said, aiming for casual.
“You have my word. I won’t meddle. And for the record, I’ve always hoped something would happen between you two.” My mother lifted her hands in surrender, a warm smile on her lips. “How have you been, sweetheart? It feels like forever since I last saw you p>
“I’m well, Mrs. Briggs. And you? It really has been a long time. Work has kept me pretty busy,” Winona said lightly, adding a soft laugh.
“I think I can guess who’s been keeping you so busy. I’m well, thank you for asking,” she teased, then hugged Winona. “Why don’t we go to the bar together and get a drink p>