“And it was a smart move. I’m irresistible to women,” he said.
“I can hear your grin.”
“You know I should make you trade me those paintings for another art tour,” he said.
“Bryan said you might suggest something like that.”
“He’s a smart man. I like him. It’s why I didn’t steal you right from underneath his nose.”
“No offense, Ramon, but it wouldn’t have been possible,” I said.
“That is why I like you, Mrs. Hailey. You are a feisty one. But, I’m not going to force you into another tour. I know that when you’re ready, I’ll get that phone call.”
“Yes, you most certainly will. Thank you, Ramon. For being so understanding about all of this,” I said.
“Take care of yourself. And when you have that precious child, I want a picture of the happy family.”
“I’ll make sure one gets to you.”
“Have a good day, Mrs. Hailey.”
“You too, Ramon.”
I hung up the phone as I sat on the edge of the bed. This past month had been an absolute whirlwind with everything with Ben and Bryan’s mother changing so rapidly. This bullshit with Laura and having to
hire someone at the gallery. But there was a lot of good that unfolded as well. Drew and Anna were back together and happier than ever, and the woman I hired for the gallery was perfect and latching on quickly. Bryan’s and my relationship was stronger than ever, and soon we would start talks on planning our wedding.
I smiled at the thought of Bryan in a tuxedo as I waddled myself to the bathroom.
I splashed some water on my face and cleaned myself up. Sundays were always my day off, and I was feeling particularly inspired to paint. I brushed my teeth, took a quick shower, and then I wrapped a towel around my body while I tried to locate my painting clothes.
But my phone ringing pulled my attention away from my closet, and I smiled when I saw it was Bryan calling.
“Good morning, handsome. Where did you get off to so quickly?” I asked.
“Hello, Hailey.”
I froze when I heard Bryan’s mother on the other end of the line.
“Um, h-hi, Mrs. McBride. Dorothy. Hi. Hello,” I said. “Is Bryan with you this morning?”
“He is.”
“Okay,” I said.
What in the world was this woman doing calling me from Bryan’s phone?
“I wanted to speak with you,” Dorothy said.
“Okay,” I said. “What about?”
“I have a few things to admit.”
I sat down on the edge of the bed and braced myself.
“I was the one who sent Laura to your gallery. I filled her in on some aspects of Bryan’s life, and I let her loose. I didn’t explicitly tell her to pretend she was having an affair with Bryan, but I did want to try and pull the two of you apart because of some issues I’m dealing with.”
I heard Dorothy sniffle before a shuddering breath came through the phone.