Page 129 of Awakened Desires

I take a deep breath. “I’m moving here.”

“To London?”

I wince at the shock in her voice. “Aye. I need to be close to Niamh and Aidan.”

“Yes, yes, of course.” I’m unsure how her tone can be stiff and understanding simultaneously, but she manages it. “What do you need?”

“I’ve given notice on my flat, but I won’t be able to get back to pack it up.”

“What about your job?”

“I handed in my notice, but my boss let me go right away.”

“So you could be with Aidan?”

I press my lips together and take a moment. Is it worth telling my parents how mad my boss was? Probably not. It’s not like them knowing will change anything. “Yes.”

“That was good of him.”

“Aye. Mam, do you think you and Dad could sort the flat out for me?”

“Of course. What do you want us to do with your stuff?”

“You can get rid of the furniture.” I don’t need it while I’m staying here, and the thought of how much it would cost to transport and store it makes my eyes water. “I was hoping you could bring my clothes and things here. I’d like you to meet your grandson.”

“Callan, don’t take this the wrong way, but are you sure—”

“That he’s mine?”

Rory gives me a sympathetic look.

Mam sighs. “Yes.”

“I’m sure. You will be too when you see him.”

I’ve sent them photos, but it sounds like those haven’t been convincing enough. I can’t fault them for doubting Niamh’s story. In their position, I’d be dubious too. But I know Aidan’s mine. I know it in my heart and soul. He might not have been planned, but I couldn’t love him more if I tried.

“I’ll post my key to you.”

“We’ve got our own,” Mam points out.

“I know. But they’ll all need to be handed back to the landlord.”

“Oh, yes, of course. We can do that for you. We’ll give it a quick clean as well.”

“Thanks, Mam.”

“I’ll let you know when we’re done, and we can arrange to come and visit.”

“That would be great.” I prise my finger from Aidan’s grasp and thread my fingers through Rory’s. “There’s something else I need to tell you.”

“Is everything okay?”

“Everything’s great. I’ve been reconnecting with Rory while I’m here.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful, Callan. I’m so glad you decided to get in touch with him. How is he?”

“He’s doing great. We’ve been doing a lot of catching up. It’s made me realise a few things about myself.”