“Wow. I’m so sorry for what he’s been through.” Tia had issues with her own parents, but nothing on the same scale. At least they’d kept her and provided for her.

“It wasn’t my intention to make you feel sorry for him,” Aiyana clarified. “I was just...hoping to help you understand why he might be a little guarded.”

The memory of him getting out of the pool and going into the house played again in Tia’s mind. Had he reacted that way because he’d actually liked the kiss, too? Liked it but didn’t want to like it? Or was it something else? “I appreciate that.”

Aiyana’s phone rang, and she took a moment to dig it out of her purse. “Speak of the devil,” she said and hit the Accept button. “Hello, son.”

Tia waved to get Aiyana’s attention and gestured not to mention that they were together. She’d agreed to take him some cookies, so he’d realize after the fact, and that was fine. He was the one who’d introduced her to his mother. Tia just didn’t want it to get awkward.

Aiyana nodded to signify she understood. “I’m good,” she said into the phone. “And you?... Tonight?... It won’t be that bad, will it?... You have the right to say no. You sound exhausted... Of course, but... Okay. Try to enjoy yourself.” She grinned at Tia. “By the way, how’s Tia doing?”

Tia wished she could hear Seth’s response, but she couldn’t. She heard Aiyana say, “She’ll get back on her feet eventually,” before telling him to have a good time, after which she disconnected.

“Everything okay?”

“Yes. He said you seem to be doing better than you were at first and that your scars aren’t as bad as you think.”

Tia liked hearing that, especially from Seth—not that she cared to examine why. “I keep trying to tell myself that others won’t notice my scars as much as I do.”

“They won’t,” Aiyana insisted. “You’re still a very beautiful woman.”

But no longer movie-star material. She could never have what she’d had, even after demonstrating her acting ability—unless she was willing to accept bit parts. Maybe she’d have a chance there, and maybe that would satisfy her one day, but that day wasn’t now. It was too far to fall. “As I said, Seth has been kind to me. I hope I can help him, too.”

“Just remember, he’s as stubborn as a mule—like me,” Aiyana added with a laugh.