She drops her arms to her sides. “Just go to dinner and see what happens. What harm can it do?”

The truth is, I’m not exactly sure what harm it can do.

I look at my phone.

Me: I’ve got a babysitter. What time do you want me there?

Josh: Around seven?

Me: It’s a da…

I pause. Delete.

Me: See you then.

Twenty-One

Delaney

It’s the longest half-week ever.

Why am I so nervous?

We’ve had a first date before. How will things go tonight?

I change four times before I settle on a simple black dress Pania made me a while ago, and I’ve never worn. It’s not too revealing, but I like the way it sits on my hips, and my cleavage looks amazing in it.

“Hello?” Pania’s voice comes from the front door.

I step out into the living room.

“Pania.” Melly runs to Pania.

“You just saw her a few hours ago.” I laugh.

“I’m staying with you tonight, my sweet little girl.”

Melly’s eyes widen. “Really?”

“No. Like I told you, I’ll be home later.” I shake my head and shoot a glare at Pania.

Pania looks me over. “I don’t think I’ve seen you wear a dress in forever. Is that the dress I made you?”

I grin. “It is. Fits like a glove because you’re so clever. This is a special occasion. He didn’t tell me how I should dress, so I took a punt.”

“Well, you look beautiful. He won’t be able to resist.”

“Mummy’s going to see Josh,” Melly announces.

Pania nods. “I know, sweetheart.”

“He loves Mummy.”

I stare at her. “What?”

“He held her hand so he loves her.”

I bite my bottom lip and try not to laugh. “I’m not sure about that, Melly. But I do like him.”

“So do I. He watched the All Blacks with us.” She turns to Pania for that last bit, and Pania smiles, running her fingers through Melly’s hair.

“That sounds like fun. What are we going to do tonight?”

“She’s had dinner. I wouldn’t worry about a bath, but bedtime is …”

“She’ll be fine with me. I know the rules. Go and have fun with your man.”

I open my mouth to correct her, but I smile instead. He is my man. If I want him to be. It’s just such a fantastical thought when I think about who he is. Back when we first met, we were equals. Now, it feels like he’s unobtainable. But that’s not true. He wants me.

“Get out of here, girl.”

I give Pania a hug before bending to kiss my little girl on the forehead. “Be good for Pania.”