“That’s right. But apparently he qualifies for a scholarship, at least a partial one. With the help of financial aid, I’d be able to cover the rest.”
“That’s fantastic news! I’m so happy for you, sis.”
“He can start next semester. I’m so glad he’ll be in a school that will nurture his gift and challenge him instead of just assigning him busy work because he’s far beyond everything they’re teaching. They look at him as if he’s some kind of anomaly.”
“Have you thought more about having him tested? I know you said he’s too young to tackle a more mature course load but it wouldn’t hurt. He could be the next Einstein.”
Rachel nodded slowly as if she was considering it. “I’ll see how he does in this new school first. If his teachers and administrators suggest he’s suitable for more advanced studies then we’ll go from there.”
“That’s sounds fair.” Riley took a sip of her coffee and grimaced because she’d forgotten to sweeten it. As she sprinkled two generous teaspoons of sugar into her cup, she changed the topic. “So why did you decide not to go to the office mixer? You said you were looking forward to it.”
“Isn’t it a girl’s prerogative to change her mind?”
Riley lifted a brow. “You’re answering a question with a question. That usually means you’re being evasive.”
“I just didn’t want to, okay? What I thought would be a night out with some girlfriends turned out to be another attempt to set me up with some random guy. No thank you. I’ve got too much on my plate to date.”
“Your job is pretty flexible, you said so yourself. And Eli is getting older. You know me or Mom wouldn’t mind watching him if you needed some time out. I think even Raine would chip in when she’s not embroiled in one of her dramas.”
“I’m just not interested in dating, okay? That part of my life is over.”
“But you’re only thirty-two years old. I know you still miss Timothy but—”
“Oh you’re a fine one to talk, Riley. You’ve barely dated since your divorce went through. What’s your excuse?”
Riley winced. “Touché. I guess we both have our hang-ups. But at least you had a good thing going with Timothy until…well you know.”
“You can say it. Until he was killed. It’s been a while since he’s been gone and I’ve come to terms with his death a long time ago. I just have no interest in taking up with anyone else. Anyway,” Rachel tilted her head to the side as if to give Riley a more thorough examination, “how did the engagement party go? How is Megan?”
Riley took a deep sip from her coffee mug to stall her answer. She carefully placed her cup on the table. “Megan is well. She looked beautiful and she seems very happy.”
“That’s it? You two were best friends and finally you’ve reconnected. And all you can say is she’s well?”
“I’m not sure what you want me to tell you. It was a typical engagement party I suppose.”
“Are you getting touchy because you saw Ethan? I mean he is her brother so he was bound to be in attendance.”
She clutched her mug so tightly, her fingers lost color. Riley should have known her sister would manage to steer the conversation to focus on her. Rachel was the queen of deflection. It wouldn’t be any use trying to change the subject because Rachel would only bring it up again. “Actually, I was led to believe he wouldn’t be there because he was out of town for business. But apparently his plans changed so I did see him.”
“How’d it go?”
“I didn’t crumble if that’s what you mean. He had a date with him so I’m sure she kept him occupied.” She twisted her lips at the memory of that willowy brunette who’d clung to him so possessively. Ethan had always been able to draw female attention with little effort so it was no surprise to see that hadn’t changed.
“It’s been a long time so I didn’t expect you to. Are you going to be okay?”
“You make it sound like I’m still pining for the guy. He walked out on me.”
“From what I understand, you pushed him out.”
“Thanks a lot, sis. I thought you would at least take my side.”
“If you’re looking for someone to badmouth men and say they’re all no good for nothings then go talk to Mom or Raine. I’m only going to be honest with you. Sure Ethan had his faults but you contributed to the breakdown of your marriage as well. You were too young and let Mom and Raine get inside your head. Misery loves company.”
“That’s not a nice thing to say about family.”
Rachel rolled her eyes. “I’m not saying anything that isn’t true and you know it. If you hadn’t constantly run to them with your marital problems, they wouldn’t have had the ammunition to poison your mind against Ethan. By no means am I saying they had malicious intent, it’s just the way they are. Mom never really getting over Daddy and Raine’s off-again and on-again romances with her children’s fathers has made those two completely bitter.”