Loving Sofia by Alina Man Read Free Book Online Page A

during the day I’m never home because of my crazy schedule, so I’ll stay out of your way.  What do you say?”
    “I guess that would work.  I don’t know how to thank you for helping me.” Fresh tears escape and he leans over to give me a hug. He places his chin on top of my head, my face buried into his chest.
    “I’ll always be there for you, Birdie.  Remember that. Always.”
    I wonder what Mona is going to say about the move , but I guess I’ll just have to worry about it later.  Mark follows me home and gets out of his car to walk me to my door.  He gives me one last hug and waits until I’m inside before he walks back to his car and drives away. 
    The place is empty and it takes me a while to notice the note stuck to the fridge: “Hi Birdie, sorry I couldn’t wait for you to get home.  I got a call from my mom and I guess my dad’s not feeling well so I’m going to fly out in the morning to see them.  Spending the night at Jon’s. I love you and I’ll miss you.  Text me or call me.  Smooches Darlin g ”
    I grab my cell from my bag to send her a quick text.
    Me – hey girly.  Got your note. Is everything ok?
    Mona – hi there. Sorry I left in a hurry.  Everything is just fine.  Turns out my dad has been having some stomach problems and my mom was worried and wanted me there for support
    Me – at least it’s nothing serious
    Mona – no don’t worry.  I’m only staying until Sunday and I should be home on time to celebrate thanksgiving with you guys.
    I decide not to tell her about my job or the moving plans.  After I shower, I put on my “granny” pajamas as Mona calls them.  They are cotton with little flowers, not very sexy but they keep me warm, and that’s all that matters right now.  It’s not like I have a man to get all sexy for. Sleep comes before long, and I dream about playgrounds, swings, and Mark’s arms around me.

Chapter 7.
     
    Sofia
    The next day I wake up feeling much better.  Since I’m alone and the weather is bad, I’m looking forward to spending all day curled up with my kindle.  But first things first: coffee.  I walk in the kitchen to turn on the coffeepot and the knock on the door startles me.  Who in the world is crazy enough to come by this early in the morning, not to mention in the pouring rain?
    I look through the peephole and see Mark’s smiling face.  Ohmy God is he kidding me?  I could pretend not to be home, but he can see my car in the driveway and I’m sure he’s not going to go away.  I unlock the door and his eyes get really wide taking me in.  That’s when I remember what I’m wearing.
    “Don’t be an ass and laugh at me.  I’m not the one knocking on your door first thing in the morning,” I say and start moving toward the kitchen.  I turn around expecting him to be right behind me, yet he’s still waiting by the door.
    “Are you going to just stand there all day?  If so, at least close the door cause I’m cold.”
    “Sorry , but you look so damn cute in those. I got you coffee and donuts; the chocolate ones you like, so don’t bite my head off, ok?”
    I grab the bag and the cup and watch him set his own cup on the table.  His hair is wet from the rain and it looks so damn good. He takes his jacket off and sits across from me, watching me intently.  I take a sip of my coffee and pretend not to notice.  How long is he going to play the staring game? 
    “Are you going to tell me what made you stop by so early or do I have to guess?”
    “I figured since you’re alone you might like some company.  I also got you some boxes in case you wanted to start packing.”
    “I’ve known you for a long time and you’ve never been a morning person.  Are you that excited to get me to move with you?” It’s a joke, obviously, but he’s not laughing, nor does he say anything.  “I don’t have much to pack. Plus today was supposed to be my relaxed day.  No cooking or cleaning, just sitting around and being