Page 19 of Awakened Desires

“Three.” Rory’s smile is watery. “They were deep and long.”

“Good.” I take my hand away from his. “This is weird.”

He nods. “Are you really okay, Cal?”

God. It’s been so long since anyone has called me that. It was always Rory’s nickname for me. It was what he called me before he could say my name properly, and then it stuck. I’ve never asked or wanted anyone else to call me Cal. A knot of emotion makes it hard to breathe. I clear my throat to dislodge it so I can answer his question.

“I am now. It took a long time.”

“I’m sorry.”

I shrug. “It’s partly my fault for turning to drink instead of putting my energy into counselling.” I wave my hand. “Like I said. It’s all in the past.”

“You’re an electrician now?”

“Aye.”

“Isn’t there much work in Ireland?” Rory rubs the back of his neck. “Do you still live there?”

“I live on the outskirts of Dublin. I work for a new build housing firm.”

“Are they building houses here?”

“I—” I falter. I can’t keep lying to him. It’s not fair. “No. Listen, Rory, I’m not here for work.”

He frowns. “Then why are you here?”

“My ex-girlfriend lives here now.” I take a deep breath. “She’s pregnant. The baby’s due sometime this week.”

“You’re going to be a dad?”

“Crazy, isn’t it?” I twist my fingers together. “This isn’t what I imagined starting a family would be like.”

“Do you think you’ll get back together?”

“With Niamh?” I shake my head. “We weren’t right for each other.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No. I’m sorry for lying to you. I should have been upfront from the start. It’s just—” I don’t know why I kept the truth from him. “Thanks for letting me stay here for a few days. I’ll be out of your hair by next weekend.”

“It’s fine if you need to stay longer.”

“Thanks, Rory.” I stare into his eyes for a few moments. They look more grey than usual, almost stormy. “Do you think—?”

“What?”

“That we could be friends again?”

Rory smiles. “I’d like that.”

“Me too. I’ve missed you.” I sniff and wipe my eyes. “Look at me getting all emotional.”

“Just like I remember,” Rory says. “I’ve missed you too.”

4

RORY