Bobby clicked his tongue sharply. âWhat do you even understand about it? A little bit of drama only adds excitement to relationships. Remember how Fannie used Jett just to get under my skin? Well, now itâs my turn to use Judie to shake her up and get her to admit her real feelings!â
Despite his many flings, Bobby had never truly committed to anyone.
With a weary sigh, Katherine asked, âDonât you worry that you might push things too far and end up in a mess you canât fix?â
âLove conquers all obstacles,â Bobby said, rising to his feet.
âRemember how you forgave Shawn after he deceived you?â
âBut Shawn is my husband!â Katherine retorted sharply, raising an eyebrow. âNeed I remind you of the reputation you have? This tactic isnât right for you. Youâd be better off being straightforward from the start instead of playing these futile games.â
Bobby seemed somewhat convinced. He wasnât completely dismissive of advice, but the idea of humbling himself to approach Fannie was uncomfortable for him.
Their discussion was interrupted by an incoming call from a friend. âBobby, weâre thinking of going up to the mountains this week. You in?â
âCount me in.â
After ending the call, Bobby turned to Katherine to see if she was interested in the mountain getaway. He remembered a hidden mountain near Crystal Bay, a place he and his friends used to explore during their school years. Katherine had visited it once, too.
Katherine declined with a wave of her hand. âNo, I canât. Joelleâs about to have her second baby any day now. I need to be there for her as soon as sheâs out of the delivery room. Iâll stay here until after the baby arrives.â
Bobby stretched out leisurely and stood, saying, âBeing single has its perksâno strings attached.â
âWhy not just tell Fannie you plan to stay single forever?â
âIâm not foolish enough for that.â Bobby smirked from the doorway. âTake care. Try not to miss me too much.â
Katherine let out a sigh. Motherhood had tempered her reactions; otherwise, she might have hurled her desk cup at Bobby.
Later, Shawn arrived to drive Katherine home. âItâs been another long day for you, sweetheart.â
Kicking off her heels, Katherine accepted the candy bag Shawn had brought her. âWhen is Joelle due?â
âSoon. Adrianâs a bundle of nerves. Just the other night, Joelle muttered something in her sleep, and he scrambled to pack the hospital bag.â
Katherine chuckled and looked over at him. âReminds me of someone.â
âIâd like to think Iâm a bit sharper than that.â
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