“Gina gave you full custody of Cam?” Melania was shocked to hear that.
“Yes. She called me on Wednesday and asked to meet in the concourse close to where I work. I had no idea why she wanted to see me but was shocked when she told me that she was going to give me full custody of Cam.”
“Did she explain why she was doing that?”
“All she said was that Cam would be better off living with me and that it’s what he wanted.”
“She’s full of surprises, isn’t she?”
“Yes and speaking of surprises, I think she’s dating again.”
“Really? Who’s the unlucky man?”
Matt chuckled. “Tanner.”
Melania stiffened. “Are you sure it’s Tanner?” she asked.
“Yes. When Gina came to pick Cam up on Sunday, she wasn’t alone. Tanner was with her and on Tuesday when I went to drop some books off for Cam, he was there. Now that we’re divorced, Gina’s free to date whomever she wants.”
“So, was Tanner still there when you left the house on Tuesday?”
“Yes. I was there for about forty-five minutes. Cam wanted me to read him a story and put him to bed. I left around eight.”
“Oh.” Melania got up from the chair and walked over to the window. She stood with her back turned to Matt. What time did Tanner leave? What were Gina and he doing while Cam was sleeping?
“Is something wrong, Mel?” Matt asked her.
“No, nothing’s wrong,” she denied, turning to face him. “I’m happy that Cam’s going to live with you. A boy should be with his father.”
“I agree.”
“So, when is Cam moving in with you?”
“Gina and I will discuss that.”
“I bet Cam is very excited.”
Matt smiled. “Yes, he is.”
“Have you told your parents?”
“Yes. They’re thrilled. Mom said that for once in her life, Gina has acted sensibly.”
“I still can’t believe that she gave you full custody but, I’m not going to dwell on that.”
“I feel like celebrating.”
“What do you have in mind?”
“Cam, you and I can go to Uncle Betty’s Diner for burgers and fries.”
“Sounds good.”
“Does Saturday work for you?”
“Yes, it does.”
“Great.” He finished his coffee and set the cup and saucer down on the coffee table. “Thanks for lunch. I have to run now. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
Melania followed him to the door. “Take care,” she said as she opened the door.
After he put on his shoes, he stood up, turned and gazed down at her. Then, leaning over he kissed her. She responded and the kiss lasted for a while and then, he drew back. “I’d better go,” he said huskily.
“‘Bye, Matt.”
“‘Bye, Mel.”
He stepped out into the corridor. She watched him walk down the hallway towards the elevators. He turned and waved before he stepped into the one which arrived.
Melania closed the door and after locking it, she leaned against it. Matt had finally kissed her and she had responded but it had been mechanical. She hadn’t felt what she used to feel. What had happened to change that? Deep down inside she knew the answer to that question and she was riddled with guilt.
The phone rang and she moved away from the door. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw the name and number on the display. She picked up the receiver. “Hello, Tanner.”
Source: Savvy Mom
Notes to Women 