Page 123 of Cat Sloan is Swirling

“I’m ready to sell the house,” Hattie stated. “Sorry it took me so long, but I just want to say that I’m glad you're happy. Believe it or not, that’s what I want for you. We hadn’t been happy for a long time and you’ve found something and someone you love. It’s obvious.”

“Thank you for saying that,” Cat said. She was surprised, but come to think of it she realized her happiness was obvious. She felt it every day and was sure other people could tell.

“I’ve come by the house several times, but couldn’t catch you at home,” Hattie said.

“I stay at Elena’s pretty often,” Cat replied.

Hattie nodded. “I figured. Listen, I have a realtor friend and if it’s okay with you, I’ll take care of everything,” Hattie said.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. I know it’s hard to trust me to do it, but I won’t let you down again,” Hattie said. “When it’s done, I’ll make sure they adjust the payout. I know you paid the mortgage for over a year without my help.”

Cat gave her a wary look.

Hattie smiled. “I’ve played the last few years over in my head and tried to find every way in the world to blame you for our breakup. In all honesty, maybe no one is to blame. I think you’re right, we grew apart. However, I handled it terribly. I’m not sure either of us was ready for an honest conversation because in our hearts we knew how it would end. We were together a long time and ending a relationship is hard. You fought for us, but I didn’t. It broke both of our hearts, but we’ll be okay.”

Cat took a deep breath and nodded.

“Don’t worry, Cat. I don’t want to be your friend or anything like that. It would be too hard. Besides, Cory would kick my ass if given half a chance.” Hattie chuckled. “I think she would’ve when I saw y’all in the Neon Rose if her girlfriend hadn’t stopped her.”

Cat smiled. “Maybe.”

“Uh, I think the line is down and I know you’re busy,” Hattie said.

“Come on, I’ll introduce you to Tara,” Cat said. She felt the remaining sadness that was coupled with her feelings for Hattie lift from her heart. There was some truth to Hattie’s words and Cat was glad it was over. Hattie would undoubtedly find someone else if she hadn’t already. Cat was reminded of Tara’s words from their planning session at the lake, and she realized she had to go through those hard times to get to where she was supposed to be. And Cat was sure Elena was where she was supposed to be.

They walked over to the table that Tara was now standing behind talking to Lauren and Elena.

“Tara, I’d like you to meet Hattie Tucker. She’s probably your biggest fan,” Cat said with a smile.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Tara said, holding out her hand.

Cat could see Hattie trying to hold back her exuberance. While Tara signed Hattie’s book, Cat walked around to stand by Elena.

“Are you okay?” Elena asked quietly.

Cat nodded. “More than okay. I’ll tell you later.”

The book signing was a huge success and even though they were tired when it ended, Cat and Elena couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate than catching another amazing sunset at Tara and Lauren’s home on the lake.

“I don’t know why y’all are tired,” Tara said, topping off their drinks. “I’m the one who had to sign all those books.”

“You’re kidding, right?” Lauren said with a bite to her voice.

“Of course I’m kidding, honey. I know who did all the work,” Tara said. She raised her glass and smiled. “Here’s to friends and Your Next Great Read. Y’all put together an amazing event and you should be proud.”

They clinked their glasses together and drank. Krista and Melanie had joined them at Tara’s along with Victoria and Shelby.

“I’m excited about this book club,” Krista said. “When do you think it will start?”

“Soon,” Elena said. “It’s all I could think about after Victoria suggested it.”

“Hey, we’re going to miss the show,” Lauren said, opening the door out to the patio.

As they began to walk outside, Tara put her arm around Cat. “I heard the most interesting thing at the bookstore.”

“Oh?” Cat said.

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