Page 25 of Christmas On Anchor Island

Nota busied herself wiping down the already spotless countertop. “We’re friends.”

Mia wasn’t the only one pretending around here. “You’re more than friends, Grandma. There’s nothing wrong with admitting the truth.” The irony of that statement passing her lips was not lost on Mia. “You like him, and I know he likes you. It’s nice that you have someone like that.”

“You make it sound as if we’re dating.” She reached for her cane and shuffled into the living room. “I’m too old for that.”

“No, you aren’t,” Mia said, leaving the towel on the counter and following behind her. “I think it’s cute how he dotes on you all the time.”

Grandma eased into her favorite recliner. “Olaf doesn’t dote on me.”

The woman was too stubborn for her own good. And for Mia’s. “You like having him around. Admit it.”

“He doesn’t talk too much. I like that.”

Not the highest compliment, but still progress. Time to get to the point.

“What if Olaf lived next door instead of me?”

Reaching for the remote control, she said, “Now you’re being ridiculous.”

“I’m really asking. What if I didn’t live next door anymore?”

The question earned her Grandma’s full attention. “Did you find another cottage on the island?”

Mia perched on the edge of the sofa, shaking her head. “I haven’t found anything yet, but I’m thinking about moving off of Anchor Island.”

Brown eyes widened. “Why?”

“For a change. For a little adventure.” Even Mia didn’t know where that one came from, but it was the truth. “I’d like to explore new places and see what’s out there. For me. For my work. Like you keep saying, I’m not getting any younger.” Chest tight, she asked, “What do you think of me moving away?”

Shoulders dropping, Nota seemed to melt into the chair. “If you aren’t happy here…”

Pushing off the couch, Mia knelt before her grandmother. “I’m not unhappy. I’m just… considering the possibilities. You’re doing great, and you’d still have Nick and Lauren and Olaf and Alex.” Clasping her soft hands, she said, “You don’t need me here, Grandma. I love you and I love being with you, but it might be time for me to see what’s out there.”

“I would hate to see you go, but if leaving feels right, then that’s what you should do.” Cupping Mia’s cheeks, she added, “I’ll expect lots of visits, though.”

Tearing up, Mia nodded. “I can do that.”

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