Book I - 9

SCARLET

What was I doing? It’s not like I was a virgin.

I waited for another hour before I went down for breakfast because I was too embarrassed to see Luke’s face. I’d heard he always left at eight and returned home at seven, so he was barely at home. I guess I wouldn’t have to worry when he came back.

Mom and Thomas were on the porch having coffee when I came down. They were like newlyweds that couldn’t let go of each other. Thomas couldn’t stop nuzzling at her hair. I had to admit that Thomas was handsome, and he’d kept in shape despite his age. I didn’t want to interrupt them but I told them I was present anyway.

“Morning, Mom. Morning, Thomas.” I kissed both their cheeks and settled on the empty seat across from them.

“Oh, darling. Good morning!” Mom greeted me with the sweetest smile. “Did you sleep well?”

“Barely.” I shrugged and chuckled. “But I probably still have jet lag,” I reasoned, which wasn’t the real case.

“Have you had breakfast?” Thomas asked.

“Um, no, not yet.”

“The