Adorable? More like cheeky.
That boys a handful! Cheeky kids are the best, Corrine said, laughing.
Oh, by the way, could you send me Keanus number? I was thinking of inviting him too.
Tildas smile froze, her fingers tightening slightly around the phone.
Keanu? Are you sure you want to invite him? Of course! He saved my life, Tilda.
If it werent for him, I wouldnt be here.
The least I can do is treat him to dinner.
Tilda sighed.
Corrine, you know my relationship with him is a bit. awkward.
Awkward? Please, Corrine said with a dismissive huff.
There is nothing improper going on between the two of you.
What do you have to be worried about? Besides, I told you to bring your husband along, didnt 1? Tildas voice lowered.
True..
but what if Lyndon cant come? So what? Corrines tone sharpened.
Youre afraid Lyndon will get upset? Tilda remained silent, as she did have that concern.
Tilda, if youre constantly tiptoeing around your husbands feelings, does that mean youll start avoiding all the men in your life? Keep that up, and one day youll find yourself sidelined, your world shrinking while his stays as wide as ever.
Tilda tilted her head, Corrines words lingering in her mind.
Why do you say that? Because men often dont value what they have until they think they might lose it.
She added matter-of-factly, You know how fascinating the world outside is.
Once his attention drifts, it might not always come back to you.
There was a sharp truth in Corrines candor that struck uncomfortably close to home.
Tilda chuckled, Corrine, have you been moonlighting as a psychologist? You sound quite professional.
Corrine chuckled, her voice warm but laced with wisdom.
Not quite.
Ive just weathered a few more storms than you.
She paused, then added, Dont overthink it. If you know youve done nothing wrong, then youve got nothing to worry about.
And if your husband does get upset, youve got every right to be upset too! After all, doesnt he have someone Like Rita hovering around? Did he stop to think about how you would feel when hes helping her out? Tilda found herself unable to argue with that.
She knew Corrine was right.
Moreover, Corrine wasnt inviting only her and Keanu for dinner.
After a pause, Tilda agreed, Alright, Ill send you Keanus number.
Good.
Ill handle the rest.
Tilda hung up and forwarded Keanus contact to Corrine, hesitating only for a second.
Then, bracing herself, she called Lyndon.