Deception

CHAPTER TWELVE

RYAN'S POV

I walked briskly into the house, closing the door slowly behind me. No one was in the living room, but I heard noises from the kitchen so I decided to check it out. Getting in, I saw Mom sitting on a stool, busy with her phone, with a plate of pizza on the counter in front of her.

" Mum, pizza again? Really?"

She pouted in defense." I can't help it!"

I smiled at sat on a stool beside hers. She put down her phone and turned her attention to me." So, how was your date?"

I rose from the chair and headed to the refrigerator, taking out a bottle of water. After taking a few gulps, I returned to my seat." It was... fine." I said nonchalantly and she raised a brow at me.

" Fine? That's all I get? I set you up with an amazing woman and all you can say is that it was' fine'? Come on, Ryan. Details."

I sighed and rubbed my temples." Okay, fine. It was... better than I expected. She's driven, smart, and... not what I thought she'd be."

" Not what you thought? That's promising. Did you make her laugh? Did she make you laugh?"

" She's quick with her words. I'll give her that. And yeah, we laughed...a little."

" A little, huh? That's good. So, when's the next date?" She asked with a wide smile, her eyes sparkling. I groaned internally, cursing myself for making it sound so good.

" Mum, please don't tease me now. It was just the first. Don't push it." I said defensively.

She waved her hand dismissively, but the sparkle in her eyes remained. " I'm just saying, Ryan. It's time you stopped hiding behind work and guilt. Ellie seems like someone who could bring light into your life. Don't let her pass you by."

My jaw tightened." We'll see." I said softly, trying to convince myself that her words didn't just hit a spot.

She reached out a clasped her hands over mine which was laid on the counter, giving it a tight squeeze. "Good. That's all I ask - give it a chance."

I nodded and she smiled. " I'll go freshen up now."

" Alright. Sleep well, and dream about Ellie." She winked and I frowned in response. To get back at her, I grabbed a pizza slice and ran out of the kitchen.

" Hey!"

" Goodnight." I said loudly enough for her to hear me, with a huge grin on my face. I stuffed the pizza slice into my mouth, enjoying the spicy flavor in my mouth as I headed to my room.

I freshened up and hopped on the bed to check if I had any calls or texts from anyone - or from Ellie.

And I did.

Number Identified: Ellie Brown
Received-  8:07pm
Hi. It's Ellie. I've arrived home safely. Thank you so much for today.

I smiled cheekily, to the extent that my cheeks almost hurt. I wasted no time in saving her number and texting a reply.

Me: You're welcome. And, thank you as well.

Ellie: You're welcome.

Me: You're an amazing personality. I hope I'll meet you again.

I really wanted to see her again, and I prayed that she wouldn't refuse.

Ellie: We'll see about that.

Her reply instantly sent me a wave of relief. I smiled and texted back.

Me: Thanks. Goodnight and sleep well.