Free Love's Second Chance (Second Chances Series) by L.P. Dover Page A

excitement bubbled in my chest, but when I reached for my phone I saw that it was my mother. She was probably going to scold me because I hadn’t called her in a while.
    “Hi Mom!” I answered cheerfully, hoping it would smooth the situation.
    “Why haven’t you called me?” my mother chided me. I silently groaned, knowing she would sound like that. She had always been adamant about me calling every single day to check in with her.
    “I’m so sorry, Mom, but I’ve been a little … busy lately.”
    “Uh-huh, how so?” Her tone sounded annoyed and disbelieving.
    Excitedly, I said, “Well, for starters I actually decorated a house the other day.”
    My mother gasped. “Oh, Korinne! That’s wonderful news. I’m so proud of you!” Hearing her encouraging words, I smiled. I knew she was worried about me, and at least hopefully that news would stop her nagging. “So does this mean you’ll be working again?” she asked, sounding hopeful.
    “I think so … I really think so.” My mom squealed and yelled the good news to my dad, who was probably shaking his head, with his hands over his ears the whole time. “That’s not all, Mom!” I chuckled.
    “What?! What else could you tell me that’ll make me happier?”
    I took a deep breath before telling her the other good news. “I’m seeing someone,” I choked out quickly. I held the phone away from my ear when she cackled again, only louder that time.
    “Who is he and when can we meet him?” she pleaded.
    “His name is Galen, and I don’t know if I’m ready for that step yet.”
    “Galen?” my mother repeated. “Hmm … why do I recognize that name?”
    I laughed. “It’s because I’d dated him before … in college. You probably remember me saying his name.”
    “I think you might be right. I’m starting to think fate has taken a turn here,” she said emphasizing the ‘fate’ part. “Wasn’t he the one you were so heartbroken over when you transferred colleges?”
    “Yes, that’s him,” I answered softly.
    “Well it looks like you two get a second chance. Maybe it was meant for you two to find each other again. I’m so glad you told me, sweetheart. I’ll be able to rest better at night knowing that you’re happy. I was really worried about you.”
    “I know, but things are getting better,” I admitted whole-heartedly. My phone buzzed in my ear, and when I looked at the screen I saw it was a text from Galen. My heart fluttered at the sight of his name, and I couldn’t stop the wide grin from spreading across my face even if I wanted to. “Mom, I’ve got to go. Galen’s calling,” I said happily.
    “Well, go then. I love you and stay safe, sweetheart.”
    “I love you too, Mom.” Hanging up the call, I fumbled with the keys to get to my text from Galen.
     
    Galen: Home early. I’ll be ready in 15.
    Me: Great! I’ll be on my way.
    Galen: Can’t wait.
    Me: :)
     
    Stopping the excitement from bubbling over was impossible. On the way to his house I couldn’t stop smiling; my cheeks were going to be aching by the time I saw him. He brought his bags outside when I pulled up in the driveway. Hitting the button for the trunk to open, I waited in the car while Galen loaded in his bags. He slid into the front seat and it wasn’t long before his intoxicating scent filled up the car. It was to the point that if I had my way I would’ve climbed on top of him then and there. I was sure his neighbors would have gotten a kick out of that. Galen smiled and leaned over to kiss me, just a simple brush of his lips.
    “I’ve missed you this week,” he said, grinning.
    “It’s only been a few days. You’re too busy to miss me,” I joked.
    “Hmm … if that’s what you want to believe. So, where are we going?” he asked.
    “I’m not going to tell you,” I teased in a sing-song voice. “You’ll have fun though, I promise.”
    “Oh, I know I will,” he said huskily. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye and I could see him