Latte Darling: Book Two of The Darling Series

“You find her yet?” Brian asks as he enters the kitchen.

“No.” I finish pouring my coffee then grab a mug for him. “But I will.”

I’ve been drinking more coffee than I should, and my sleep has suffered because of it, but it makes me feel close to her. Even though I haven’t laid eyes on her in four horrible days.

Brian nods, taking the cup I hand him. “I know.”

Knowing it’s too hot, I set mine down and look at my son. “I appreciate you being cool about all of this.” I should’ve said this sooner. “I know it’s a little… weird, how Maddie and I met.”

Brian chuckles, “I mean, yeah. But it’s also kinda funny.” He shrugs, “And I’m glad you went. She’s cool. And thinking about standing her up, even though it wasn’t on purpose, makes me feel like an asshole. Much better for you guys to meet and fall in-love.”

He says it so casually. Love. Then he sets down his coffee and starts tapping something out on his phone like it isn’t a big deal.

But it is.

It’s a huge deal.

It’s the first time I’ve heard the word love used regarding me and Maddie. But I don’t have to think about it.

Not at all.

I love her so fucking much.

And I’m going to get her back.

I walk around the island and pull Brian into a hug.

He stiffens at first, clearly not expecting it, and that makes me hug him tighter.

“Uh,” Brian pats my back. “What’s this?”

“It’s a hug.”

“Yeah, okay. Are you dying?”

“What?” my head rears back. “No.”

“Am I dying?”

I roll my eyes, “You’re not dying.”

“Good. Glad to hear it.” He tries to squirm out of my hold. “What’s with the hug then?”

“They’re good for you.”

“Oookay,” he pats my back again.

“Get on board you little shit. I’m not letting go until you hug me back.”

Brian lets out the biggest sigh I’ve ever heard, then he lifts both arms and hugs me back.