Page 50 of Tender Temptation

“I’d be honored. You’re very talented.” Her smile is filled with pride. “You’ve come such a long way, Ivy. I’m proud of you for following your passion.”

It’s true. For past year and a half, I’ve lived life on my own terms. First, traveling to Europe with mom. Then, putting down roots in Italy. I’m in my third semester of intensive courses at the Florence Academy of Art, where I’ve immersed myself into everything they offer—from drawing and painting to sculpture. I’ve made a ton of friends and feel like the Ivy I used to be before my brother died.

“I couldn’t have done it without your support.” I sink my teeth into a custard bomboloni, the greatest pastry in the history of the earth.

She and I settle into our usual comfortable routine, eating and planning out our upcoming travels. This time, my mom is only here for a couple of weeks so we’re sticking close and heading to Siena. I look forward to exploring the medieval city and drawing inspiration from its historic architecture.

“I booked us a room at a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of town.” Mom turns her phone so I can see the modern decor. “We’ll be able to walk everywhere.”

Excitement bubbles. “It’s hard to believe I haven’t been there yet. I can’t wait to see thePiazza del Campoand the cathedral.”

“I love seeing you happy.” Mom stirs her coffee. “Last year broke my heart…”

I nod, the memory still raw. I try not to think about the events leading up to meeting Cillian and the demise of our relationship. “My world fell apart. But you stood up for me with Dad. If you hadn’t whisked me off to Europe, who knows where I’d be.”

Mom’s eyes glisten. “Your father was caught up protecting you, he couldn’t understand how his words would affect you. It didn’t take much convincing, we both want the best for you.”

“We’re a work in progress.” My dad and I aren’t fully on track, but the distance helps. “At least you made him see we needed to be a family again.”

She clears our plates. “Well, spending six months traveling while he was tied up at work, it was exactly what you and I needed.”

“Yeah. It helped us get to know each other again.” My voice is thick with emotion.

From Paris to Rome, London to Ireland, Prague, Hungary, Amsterdam, Munich and Spain, my mom took care of me during the worst of my heartbreak.

Mom puts her hands on my shoulders. “I’m grateful for our travels, Ivy. I feel closer to you than ever.”

“You helped me so much.” I stand and envelop her in a hug. “It’s freeing to finally open up.”

“Are you ready to share his name with me?” she asks gently.

I shake my head. “No. Maybe someday. He knows who Dad is and since he didn’t ask to be brought into our family dynamic, I don’t want to add to his humiliation by outing him for something that wasn’t his fault.”

“You’re showing maturity and compassion beyond your years.” Mom squeezes me tightly. “I’m curious, obviously. But protecting someone you care for is admirable.”

I lean in to her. “I know it hasn’t been easy, but your support means the world to me.”

“Speaking of which, isn’t it time for your dad to call?” Mom looks at her watch.

My phone starts buzzing. “ESP, much?” I show my mom, then hit the speaker button.

“Girls?” My dad’s voice booms through the speaker. He’s always loud, but sounds more relaxed than usual.

“Hi, Dad.” I keep my voicesteady. “We’re here.”

He hits the video connect and his face fills the screen. “There they are. How’s Florence treating you both?”

“It’s wonderful, Stan.” Mom smiles at him. “The school is superb. We’ve been exploring the city and are planning a trip to Siena this weekend.”

His smile is tight. “I miss you both, but I’m glad you’re enjoying yourselves.”

“How’s the build going?” I can’t help myself. Any news of Cillian is like food, and I’ve only had the most minuscule of crumbs.

“We’re ahead of schedule. I had to deal with a bit of a mess at the jobsite today.” He rolls his eyes. “McGloughlin Construction has been excellent, but Cillian missed a critical meeting with the city. It’s sorted now, but I won’t hesitate to replace him if it happens again.”

My heart sinks. It’s not like Cillian to be unprofessional, I hope he’s okay. Then, I push the thought aside. It’s none of my business. He doesn’t want anything to do with me. My focus has got to be on the progress we’re making as a family.

The three of us talk for easily an hour about school, our upcoming travel and where we’ll spend Christmas this year. None of this would have been possible without dozens of virtual family therapy sessions. I don’t completely trust him yet, but I can see the effort my dad’s making to allow me to live my ownlife.

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