Page 90 of Who's Loving You

“Well she can forget about that because I’m here. She can live in the basement.” The devastation drains from Valentina’s face and the pain building in my stomach eases. “Can we go home now? Please?”

She nods and I move in for a soft kiss. The side of a busy road is no place for a make-out session.

I guide her back to the car, buckling her in, and scramble to get us home where I can take away all of her doubts. The car ride home is quiet but I don’t care. I just need her close.

When we walk in, mom, dad and Greer greet us with smiles and Valentina gives each of them short hugs before excusing herself to the bathroom to reset. Mom smacks my arm and walks away, and Greer shakes her head. I’m left standing alone next to dad, watching my girl walk out of sight.

“What’d you do?” He asks.

“Fall in love.”

31

VALENTINA

My Pain in the Ass: I miss you. I wish you were here with me. Maine is cold and I need you to keep me warm.

Me: That’s exactly why I’m here and you’re freezing your balls off. Cold and I don’t get along. I called her a bitch and she unfriended me.

My Pain in the Ass: Mi Reina, you know my balls are tucked safely in her purse. I’m okay. Be sure to watch the game.

Me: Of course I will. Lucy and I are having a watch party. She’s bringing the margaritas and I’m providing the dill pickle chips.

My Pain in the Ass: Peach margaritas and dill pickle chips. Interesting combo. Sounds like the cravings of a pregnant woman. Do you have something to tellme, mi Reina?

Me: Yeah. You’re delusional. Pregnant woman don’t drink alcohol.

My Pain in the Ass: Are you still able to pick me up from the airport? I know it’s late but I really just want to be able to hug you after a ridiculously long flight.

Me: Yes. I will be there. I’m sure Lucy will be snoring on my couch so I’ll be wide awake.

My Pain in the Ass: Well I hope she’s a sound sleeper because I plan on fucking my girl until she wakes the sun.

Me: Nico! You can’t send those things over text.

My Pain in the Ass: Why not? It’s the truth. Take Monday off because you’ll need some rest.

My Pain in the Ass: >

Me: OMG! What is wrong with you? You do know that people can hack into your phone and then exploit you all over the internet?

My Pain in the Ass: Babe…the entire internet has pretty much seen what I just sent you.

Me: Don’t remind me.

My Pain in the Ass: Aside from that, what would you rate the picture?

Me: >

My Pain in the Ass: Thank you, thank you. Okay. Your turn. I’ll wait.

Me: Hahaha. Nice try but not happening.

My Pain in the Ass: Pllleeeeeeaaaassssseeee!

My Pain in the Ass: Mi Reina?

Me: >