Chapter 43

After cleaning up our mugs and straightening the kitchen, I head to my mother’s room, pulling out my cell to call Jake while sprawling across the comforter.

He answers immediately, glad I’m here and sound okay. I’ve nothing much to tell him; I’m happy to hear his voice. I tell him that I won’t see my mother until tomorrow and don’t want to talk about her tonight.

He makes me laugh, talking about how much he’s pining in my absence and being silly. My regular, mischievous Jake, that’s what I need right now.

“You know, tiny, I don’t have much going on. Just Daniel’s birthday.” I hear Daniel in the background protesting in response, but Jake ignores him and continues, “I could hop a plane and keep you company.” He seems serious despite the casual tone of his voice, with an undertone I recognize.

“He’s your best friend; you can’t bail on his birthday bash,” I object but sigh at how much I adore him for it.

“I’m sure he won’t even notice if I’m not here; he h