Fated

CHAPTER 20

PRESENT DAY

MASON'S POV

“That's what happened.”

My mom doesn't say anything. She opened her mouth then closed it. While I talked, she'd come and sat at the table with me. She grabbed my hand and squeezed it.

“You have to talk to her.”

“We'll see. If I get the chance, I'll jump at it, but I'm not going to force myself on her. She's with someone and I'll respect that.” Mom leaned over and gave me a kiss.

“Okay. I won't push. So, what do you want to eat?” We made dinner plans and headed to the store. I hadn't had Mom's cooking in six months so I was taking advantage while I was here. She didn't mind. As I went to get some broccoli, someone bumped into me.

“Watch it!”

“You bumped me!” I turned around and there was Marco, laughing so hard. “Man! It was about to go down!” I reached out and hugged him.

“Bro, your face! You ready to throw down in the grocery store?”

“If it comes to it.” We laughed and walked to find Mom. She was getting ice cream and invited Marco for dinner. We checked out and he met us at Mom's house. After getting all the bags in, he and I sat in the living room. We talked about my company and its growth. He told me about traveling before he had to report back to base.

“Yeah man, Japan was awesome! I actually just got back two days ago. Spent a few weeks there and had the time of my life! You have to go some time, live a little.”

“Maybe once things are calmer with my company.”

“I'll hold you to that. You'll see some interesting people. I sure did.”

“Really? Tell me all about her.”

*****

JASMINE'S POV

“So there you have it. That's why I had Lance pick me up from the airport. Once I heard her through that door, knowing she was still there, it broke my heart.”

“Baby, I'm so sorry.”

“It's okay Mom. Right now, I'm just focusing on my relationship with Lance and the business.”

“Do you think you two will ever make up?” I took my time before I answered. If I was honest, I missed Mason like crazy! Apart from the sexual, I missed my best friend. Monica was great, but she's not Mason. He just got me. We could sit and just be. No words needed. We laughed all the time and he made me smile. He's always thinking of me. Was he thinking of me now?

“Who knows Mom? Maybe one day.”

“I hope so.” Mom stood up and stretched. “I think I'm going to head to bed. These bones are tired and I have a headache.” I stood and took a look at her. Her eyes were a little dull and her body sagged a little.

“Are you okay? Can I get you anything?”

“I'm fine. I'll take an aspirin when I get upstairs.” I grabbed her hand and we walked into the house. We walked up the steps into her room. She went into her closet and put on her pajamas. I got her some medicine and a glass of water. Handing it to her, I moved to the bed and pulled back her cover. She took the pills then climbed into bed. I stood back and looked at her. She looked weary.

“Mommy, are you sure you're okay?” I've never seen her look like this. She's usually so peppy. Honestly, I'm scared.

“Yes, yes. Don't worry about me. I've just been thinking and worried about you. Plus, I think I overworked myself in the garden. I'm fine, really.”