“Emelia. I can’t believe I have both my kids under the roof at the same time. I’m so happy.”
And now they’re both crying. Have I mentioned I can’t stand to see women cry? I sigh. “Okay, you two, we’re all here. Now let’s relax.”
Emelia laughs. “I forgot what a jerk you are. Come here.” She pulls me into a hug. “I missed you.”
“I missed you too. I’m sorry I stayed away so long.”
When she steps back, I take in what she’s wearing.
“Were you painting?” I ask. She’s wearing coveralls that are covered in all shades of dry paint. At least I hope it’s dry. I look down to make sure I’m not wearing wet paint.
“Yes, repainting my kitchen. Now, what brings you back?” she asks.
“A job.”
She laughs. “That’s it? Can’t say any more?”
“Nope.” I grin.
“It’s at Havenwood University,” my mom supplies.
My sister’s smile drops. “Are you here to see Lucy?”
Jesus.I’ve gone thirteen years with no one saying her name, and now everyone is bringing her up. “I’m here on a job. I happened to see her. Coincidence.”
Emelia nods slowly, her blonde ponytail swaying behind her.
I can tell she wants to say something.
“Spit it out,” I prod.
“Are you going to try to win her back?”
“No, don’t encourage that,” Mom scolds. “Lucy is his past.”
Emelia rolls her eyes. “The man has had no other relationships that we know of. He left town and hasn’t returned for thirteen years. Why would he do that? Because of a girl. And we both know that girl is Lucy. He never got over her.”
I swallow. This isn’t a conversation I want to have.
“Why did you two break up?” my sister presses. “You never told us.”
“Emelia let’s not pry. You know he’s a private person.”
I turn to my mom with a scowl. She’s one of the nosiest people I know, but now she’s tellingEmelianot to pry? And telling me not to pursue Lucy?
“Mom, what’s going on?”
Her eyes widen. “Nothing. I just don’t think Lucy is the one for you. But I do hope you find someone soon, because I want grandbabies.”
And that’s my cue to go. “Okay, thanks for the tea, Mom. It was good seeing you, Emelia. I have to get back to work.”
“So soon?” Mom asks, disappointment laces her voice.
“Yeah, I have a meeting.” I hate lying to her, but I need to get out of this house. I stand, but Emelia grabs my arm.
“Wait,” she protests. “I just got here. Can’t you visit for a bit?”
I pull her in and give her a hug. “No, I really need to get back. I only had a few minutes.”
