Page 37 of Finding Forgiveness

Chapter11

Cassie

“Why does it smell like smoke in here?” Jacinta asks when she enters our apartment Saturday morning. “Is something burning?”

I glance at Connor in a panic, silently begging him not to throw me under the bus. It’s been two days since my little kitchen mishap and that smell has yet to fade.

He flicks his hand in his sister’s direction from where he’s casually lying on the sofa. “A mishap with one of those stupid scented candles you women like to burn,” he says with a roll of his eyes.

“Stupid? Don’t be hating on our candles,” his sister bites back.

“Yeah, Maloney,” I add with a touch of attitude. When his eyebrows spring up in surprise, or possibly shock, I have to bite my lip to suppress my smile.

“I came down to see if you two have any dinner plans. I’m making lasagne tonight.”

“Hell yeah,” Connor says, leaping to his feet. “I don’t know about Cass, but I’m definitely down for that.”

Her eyes then move to me. “I know you’re not a big fan of carbs, Cass, but I’m making a salad and can grill you a piece of chicken if you like.”

“I’m good with lasagne.”

Her eyes widen. “You are?”

“Yes. The old Cass wasn’t a fan of carbs, but I’m new and improved. I’m a working girl in need of substance, so they’ve become my friend.”

Jacinta does a double take before stepping forward and pulling me in for a hug. “Look at you killing this new life; I’m so proud of you.” She’s the second person to say those words to me, but would she be proud if she knew I nearly burnt down her brother’s apartment?

“Thanks.”

“I’m heading to the shops, can I get you guys anything?” she asks, releasing me.

“We’re good,” we both reply in unison.

Jinx.

“Do you want to come with me?” she asks.

“To a grocery store?” My body shudders at the thought. “Nah, I’m good. I umm … have stuff to do.”

“Ugh, you’re such a liar.”

“I do.”

“Whatever.” She turns towards the door. “Come up around six, or earlier if you want.”

As soon as she leaves, Connor stalks towards me. “What the hell was that?”

“I do like carbs,” I say, schooling my face. “I ate a burger and fries, didn’t I?”

“You and I both know I’m not talking about carbs, Cass.”

I lift my chin. “Well then, I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I fib.

“I lied to my sister to protect you only to have you both gang up on me.”

“I was giving the story credibility. Nobody forced you to lie, Connor.”

“I’ll remember that next time you give me one of those looks.”