We may not see eye to eye currently but that doesn’t matter. This isn’t for us. This is for Rory and that makes all the difference.
I jerk my chin. “On the count of three.”
Both nod in agreement.
Finn starts, “One.”
Followed by Eli, “Two.”
My pulse pounds. “Three.”
The single flame spreads into a wildfire of warmth and light. Popping and cracking as the tin of her trailer hisses its disapproval.
I don’t move, don’t breathe. Exalted, wholly to my spot.
The flames grow higher. Rising the longer it flourishes.
A shudder rips past my shoulders. Chaos is as devastating as it is beautiful.
nine
Rory
ThismorningwhenIwoke up, I felt lighter. Cleansed in a way.
Once again reconstructing the armor I wear like a shield. A few of the dents polishing themselves out after yesterday.
I’m not sure if I’m ready to settle back into my life at the Casper mansion yet, but for a little under two weeks, I don’t have a choice. So, I’m going back.
There is one thing, however, I had to do before we left. This one non-negotiable.
“Alma,” I yell. Sprinting over to her as I jump out of the car.
Her hand drops from the lock when I ram into her. My hold tightens when the familiar passion of her chuckle hits my ears. It’s of equal parts surprise and sadness.
“Couldn’t leave without saying goodbye, could ya?”
“Never,” I gasp out.
There are hugs that are gentle. Giving you space to breathe. This is not one of those. My breathing slows, melting into her. She has a power in her hold that I never wanted to pull away from.
Alma’s muscles loosen before squeezing a fraction tighter, pulling back.
“How’d you know I’d be here?”
I choke back a sob. My smile gummy. “It’s like I know where you work or something.” This restaurant only her entire life.
“You’d always been diligent. Can’t say the same for my cook.” A puff of air pulls through her nose. “Running late as usual.”
“Sampson?” I snort. “What a stupid guy.”
If she doesn’t agree, she doesn’t show it, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear instead. Eyes molten as they are clear.
“So, I guess this is it then?”
“What?” Tears burn at my lids. Suddenly panicked. “No!”
“Child.” Her tongue clicks, and my lip thins. This was her scolding tone.