Page 48 of Let Me Be the One
“Goats and chickens put away?” Addie asked, which was now her habit.
“Yes, and I ensured the latches were secure.” She’d also locked her door.
“You get that extra room cleared out yet?”
Callie smiled. “Mostly, and no, I don’t need you to finish it. You’ve already done more than enough for me, especially with dinner again. You work too hard.”
“Amen,” Kam said. Then he offered, “But if you run into anything heavy, or need any help, just let me know.”
Glory flushed, maybe because she was the only one not offering.
To help her out, Callie said, “I’m going to enlist Glory to help me finish going through the last few boxes. Once that’s all done, I hope to make it a proper bedroom.”
Blinking fast, even smiling, Glory looked up at her. “Oooh, new furniture?”
“I think so.” Callie hadn’t told anyone yet, but she’d made plans to get some of her stuff out of storage, especially her beautiful bedroom set. “I want to get both bedrooms painted first.”
Glory touched her arm. “I’d love to help.”
Like it was an honor? Had Glory wanted to pitch in, but hadn’t known how? Knowing her cousin’s history, Callie should have considered that. “I was also hoping you’d help me with my videos.”
More excited, Glory turned to face her. “For your channel?” This time the color blooming in her cheeks was enthusiasm. “I would love, love,loveit! It’s my specialty, you know.”
Yes, Callie did know it. “Awesome.”
“How do you have a specialty in online videos?” Kam asked, his skepticism plain.
Of course, Glory froze up, but only for a couple of seconds, then she turned back to her plate, cleared her throat, and composed herself. “I’ve studied audio engineering, sound design, and audio production.”
“Plus she has hands-on experience.”
“Only with family stuff.”
“And it always looked beautifully produced and professional.” Whenever she could brag on Glory, she did.
“Fascinating,” Addie said. “Why don’t you tell us more about that?”
See, that just made her adore Addie even more. The woman knew how to bring out the best in people.
While they ate, Glory modestly shared what she’d learned and what she could do with even the simplest recordings. They were almost finished with dinner when suddenly Blu, who’d been sleeping within view in the great room, jumped to his feet and gave a joyous bark. Everyone looked up.
Addie left her seat. “That’ll be Tanner.” She went to the stove and began preparing a plate.
Blu charged out of the room, and when he returned, Tanner was with him, talking softly to the dog and stroking his neck. He met Callie’s gaze first.
Addie bustled over and gave him a hug. “I’m heating up your meal now.”
He embraced her, his cheek to the top of her head, holding her gently…for an extra-long moment. Callie felt like she was intruding and yet she couldn’t look away. Kam clasped Tanner’s shoulder in brotherly concern, then he took over where Addie had left off with the food. He covered the plate and put it in the microwave.
With one last squeeze, Tanner released Addie, saying low, “She’s okay.”
“Thank God,” Addie murmured.
Glory shared a quick, concerned glance with Callie.
Nodding, Callie pushed back her chair. “The food was incredible as always. Thank you.”
Addie said, “You’re not leaving, are you?”
