“Like I said, Paula’s insecure. As much as it kills me to say it, she tends to surround herself with people she deems below her. She’s always had straight women as roommates. My guess is so she won’t feel threatened by them or worry they might attract the attention of a lover. By not telling her what happened you’re protecting the other person as much as yourself.”

Worry creased Ashleigh’s forehead. “Honestly, Kelly, I believe if she finds out, it won’t only be about you. Paula will go on a personal crusade to find out who the other person was, and God help them if she figures it out.”

Would this nightmare never end? Ashleigh’s words brought the reality of the situation crashing home. Not only would Paula never know what happened, but perhaps Kelly would never know the identity of the other woman either.

Unlike Paula, Kelly didn’t have the bliss of ignorance on her side.

Ashleigh’s phone chimed. She fidgeted with it in her lap but kept her gaze on Kelly as though it would be rude to look at her phone during such a monumental moment. But Kelly was done talking. She was hungry, and a dull ache had started in her temples.

“Get that.” Kelly stood. “I’ve gotta get a move along anyway.”

Ashleigh’s hand flew to her mouth. “Oh, gosh. I’m sorry. I didn’t realize I was holding you up.”

Mentally exhausted, Kelly didn’t bother informing Ashleigh the only place she was going was around the corner to the local fish and chip shop.

After pushing herself to her feet, Kelly escorted Ashleigh to the door. “Tell Craig I said hi and I’m glad I could help.”

“I will, and thank you again.”

Surprising the hell out of Kelly, Ashleigh pecked her on the cheek. “You’re a good person, Kelly. I hope you find the one.”

With a heavy heart, Kelly whispered, “Me too,” as Ashleigh disappeared down the driveway.

Chapter 10

The following morning, Kelly slung her backpack over her shoulders, about to head to her mother’s when Nicole and Steve breezed through the door.

“Hey, how was your night?” Nicole asked.

Taking the opportunity to have some fun with her friends, Kelly dropped her bag at her feet and waggled her eyebrows. “Great. You’ll never guess who came over.”

Steve kicked off his jandals and placed them by the door. “Your sister?”

Nicole elbowed Steve. “She wouldn’t be looking as though she got laid if she’d spent the night with Jo.”

She turned her attention back to Kelly. “Spill.”

Biting her lip to stifle a giggle, Kelly replied, “Ashleigh.”

The shocked expression on Nicole’s face, eyes wide, mouth open, was entertaining to say the least.