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“Of course.”

“So, how are you? Anything going on?”

“Oh, you know me. Just plodding along.”

Eden stared down at the floor. She hated the guilt her mother made her feel for not always being on hand. “Well, you could go out to lunch with Dad or call some of the ladies from the social club.”

“The weather isn’t great. But I bet it would have been abroad. How hot is it?”

Eden shrugged. “I’ve no idea, but it has to be high twenties over there.”

“Ooh, I could just enjoy some sun.”

“I’ve told you to book a holiday with Dad. You’ve been retired for almost three years, and you’ve only gone away once since.” Eden didn’t understand why her mum constantly warred with herself regarding holidays. She loved the sun, she loved to sit with a book and a glass of wine, so it made sense for them to book a month-long trip to Spain or the likes of and enjoy their retirement. “Did you want me to have a look at some deals for you?”

“Oh, no. Don’t worry. I’m sure I’ll find something to do. Now tell me, how’s that second daughter of mine?” Angela was referring to Blair.

“Blair and Dom are both fine, Mum.” Eden swallowed, wishing she could just come out and say what she wanted to say. But maybe she could just say it. What was the worst that could happen? “Actually, I had something I wanted to discuss with you.”

“I’m sure it can wait. You’re probably busy.”

“Mum, it’s fine. I’ve only just climbed out of bed.” Eden wouldn’t usually do something like this over the phone, she hated that kind of thing, but she couldn’t deal with the uncertainty in her mum’s eyes. “You know how Blair is ridiculously in love with Dom…”

“I do. I’m so happy she found the love of her life. But don’t get me started. You know how I feel about that…thing, she used to be married to. Don’t start me off because I won’t stop. And I’ll swear. That’s never a good look.”

Eden grinned. She loved this side of Angela. “Mum, calm yourself down. We all know how you feel about Barrett.”

“Don’t say his name, love. He doesn’t deserve to be spoken about.”

Eden lowered herself onto the couch, running a hand through her hair. Maybe she should have done this last night when she felt brave and confident as she sat comfortably between Aster’s legs.

“Anyway, do you have a few minutes to stay on the phone? I need at least three coffees before I even think about getting ready.”

“Okay, if you’re sure it’s not eating into your day.”

“I have plenty of time. Don’t worry. You know I’m only on the end of the phone whenever you want to talk. Don’t forget that.”

She got to her feet and prepared a coffee. Once she had some caffeine in her, she would feel better.

Eden chewed her lip, tugging at the hem of the shirt she was wearing. She’d felt so positive and confident as she lay in bed this morning, enjoying Aster’s warmth. Now, she just needed to build up the courage to be honest with her mother. That was easier said than done.

Eden cleared her throat. “So, about Blair and Dom.”

“Like I said, I’m thrilled for them both. And Dom, she’s wonderful. She has lovely manners, and she certainly takes good care of Blair. You know I love her like a daughter of my own.”

“I know, Mum.” Eden and Blair had been inseparable as kids, teens too, but recently, not so much. “So, you know Dom plays football?”

“I do.”

“Well, one of the players on the team, Grace…her best friend comes to watch. Turns out she’s a photographer, and I hired her a few months ago. Her name is Aster. She’s lovely.”

“Aster…” Angela tried the name out. “Does her mother like to garden?”

“She did actually, yes. But that doesn’t matter right now.” Eden sipped her coffee, sighing lightly as the intense aroma overpowered her senses. “She was supposed to go on holiday with us, but her dad took ill while we were at the airport.”

“Oh, poor love. I know you’ll be there for her, especially if she’s your employee. You take wonderful care of your staff.”

“I’m dating her.” Eden spoke with an excitement in her voice. Now that she’d said those words, she realised just how much she wanted this to work out for her. “You there, Mum?”