“That’s another thing. I don’t even have a job. These women? They appear to be successful, competent, professional women.”

“You have a job. And I thought you were interested in expanding your business.”

Laura laughed. “Expanding my lawn service business? I know. I just haven’t gotten around to it.”

“Well, we do let things go, don’t we? I still haven’t set up a date for the painters yet.”

Laura let out a deep breath. “I’m going to get hurt.”

“You think so?”

“Yes. She’s going to break my heart. Then it’ll be awkward living here next door. I’ll lose my one yard job. Your pool therapy will come to an end.” She sighed again. “All because she’s like the best kisser ever.”

Her mother laughed. “That’s how it’s going to play out? What about the alternative?”

“What alternative?”

“She falls madly in love with you. You move in with her and I still get my pool therapy.”

Laura smiled. “Got us getting married, do you?”

“Wouldn’t that be wonderful, Laura Sue?” her mother asked wistfully. “I always worried about you being alone.”

“I’m only thirty-eight, Mom.”

“And how old is Cassidy? I’d guess early forties.”

“Forty-four. Young enough to still look really good in a bikini.”

“So you kissed again? In front of her friends?’

“God, no! In the pantry, of all places.”

“The pantry. How on earth?”

“It’s as big as my bedroom.”

“Oh. So up against the canned goods then?” her mother teased.

“It was a really good kiss. Let’s just say that if her friends hadn’t been there…”

Her mother grinned. “So are we going to talk about sex now?”

Laura pointed her finger at her. “You have a one-track mind.”

“I’m a widow. And for your information, Frankie and I had a very active sex life.”

“Ew…I don’t want to know.”

“Your father and I did too,” she continued.

Laura stared at her. “I’m sorry, Mom. I’m sorry that I…that I disappeared from your life. That was selfish of me.”

Her mother nodded. “Yes, it was. I know you didn’t understand…I know you disliked Frankie.” She waved her hand in the air. “I…I just wasn’t good alone. I was used to your father taking care of things. And yes, Frankie had his faults…but he loved me.”

Laura leaned her head back. “I’m sorry,” she said again. “Those are years we won’t get back and I’m sorry.”

“You’re here now, Laura Sue. You’re here now.”

Chapter Forty-Five