“Oh thank you, Hank!” she gushed. “Thank you so much!”

“Maybe we can find her a shelter down in South America or maybe in Antarctica,” I added.

“We’ll both try to help her find some new situation of her own,” Hank said kindly. “After all, she is your momma, Austin. Even she deserves a fresh start.”

I paused, glaring at her. “I suppose you’re right, Hank,” I grudgingly replied.

“Now, if it’s possible to trouble ya for one more thing,” Angie said with a sneaky smile. “If I ain’t your wife no more, I suppose that I’m your mother-in-law now. So, can I borrow fifty dollars for food and such? I haven’t eaten in days.”

“Ya could’ve fooled me!” I blasted.

Again, she shot me a dirty look.

“Of course, we can help ya with a little money, Angie,” Hank said, gripping his hand over mine. “You are Austin’s mother, but two nights at the Red Roof Inn and fifty bucks is all you’re getting. Then we’re gonna part ways.”

“I understand,” she replied with a forced smile. “I promise ya both that ya won’t regret helping me.”

“I hate how things turned out today, sweet boy,” Hank said softly as he moved on top of me in our bed.

Putting my book aside, I caught a whiff of his Old Spice shower gel. His muscular chest rubbed against mine and his long, strong arms wrapped around my waist.

“It’s not your fault,” I replied, looking up into his blue eyes. “I loved my party. Well, up until...”

“Angie,” he stated.

“Yes, her!” I pouted. “She had to pick this weekend of all times to show her face at our door!”

“I’m sorry she ruined your birthday weekend, Austin.”

“I’m more worried about our one-year anniversary. We’ve been married for a whole year and this has been the happiest time of my entire life… I just don’t want her to ruin it.”

“We won’t let her ruin it,” he insisted.

“You don’t know her like I do,” I cautioned.

He gave me smirk. “Well, I was married to her for three years, so I think I know a little about how Angie ticks.”

“I’m not discounting your time with her,” I began diplomatically. “But I spent sixteen years with that scheming bitch! She’s planning something – I just know she is. And believe me, it’ll be something crazy and desperate.”

“I don’t think so,” Hank returned as he kissed my cheek. “I just think she’s down on her luck and needs a hand up.”

I looked up at my husband with a loving smile. “You always see the best in people,” I said, reaching up and gently touching his handsome face. “And I love you for that... I’m just worried that she’ll try to ruin tomorrow.”

“I won’t let her,” Hank swore. “Tomorrow is our one-year anniversary, the first anniversary of many. Your momma will be all sorted and gone soon enough.”

“I hope you’re right,” I replied warily.

“Don’t worry your pretty little head about it,” Hank said, running his hands down my body. “I’m not gonna let anyone spoil our special day – I promise ya that.”