Page 59 of Tender Temptation

What we had will never come again. She’s gone. Forever.

A year ago, the thought would have sent me straight for a bottle of whiskey.

Today, I don’t even have a craving.

I’m ready to face whatever comes next.

twenty-seven

Ivy

Three Months Later - Present Day

God, it’s strange tobe back home.

Florence, with its cobblestone streets and Renaissance art, already feels like a distant memory.

We crest the hill past Boeing Field and the familiar skyline of Seattle comes into view, stirring up a maelstrom of emotions. I left almost three years ago. Broken. Unable to function. I never thought I’d return.

Now I’m back. A far cry from the scared, desperate girl who was willing to do anything to escape my father. I’m almost twenty-one, a woman who’s come into her own.

“How are you feeling?” My mom’s voice is tinged with worry as she takes the exit to our neighborhood. “You’ve built a nice life in Florence. You don’t have to give it up.”

I gaze out the window at the new construction all around me. So much has changed in my city that holds so many memories. “I’m worried about Dad, of course, but I was ready to come home. Honestly.”

“He’s been holding strong, but the chemo is really taking its toll.” Her grip tightens on the steering wheel. “Having you here means the world to him.”

Mom pulls through the gate into the driveway and the sweeping grounds come into view.

It’s funny how I never paid much attention to the plush, green lawns, elegant flower beds, and towering trees. With my newfound appreciation of architecture, I take in the tall white columns, large arched windows and the rich, dark wood double doors. It’s stunning. I can’t believe I grew up here and I’m only admiring it now.

We step inside and I breathe in the familiar scent of fresh lilies and lavender, which is piped through the central air system. The grand entryway, with its marble floors and sweeping staircase, is adorned with exquisite paintings of myfamily, from my great grandparents to me and Forrest. Every surface is impeccably polished and dozens of vibrant floral arrangements are positioned around the room.

This was my prison. Viewed through new eyes, it’s gorgeous. Welcoming, even.

Huh.

“He’s back here.” Mom leads me down the expansive hallway to the great room, a vast, inviting space with high ceilings and plush furnishings. My dad is set up comfortably in his favorite armchair, watching the news on a massive flat-screen TV.

Seeing him frail and tired leaves me momentarily breathless and I know coming back was the right decision. It’s been a long time since I’ve hugged my dad.

A lump forms in my throat. “Dad.”

“Ivy!” His face lights up. “It’s nice to see you, sweetheart.”

I rush over and hug him. “I missed you. How are you feeling?”

“Meh.” He pats the cushion beside him. “I’ve had better days, but knowing you’re here makes it a lot easier. How was your flight?”

“Easy.” I plop down and lean on his shoulder. “I caught up on all the project documents, but there are still some gaps. I was hoping you could get me the files before I head to the sitetomorrow.”

He smiles. “Diving in, I see. Look, we’re in the final stages of the buildout, it’s mostly about overseeing the finishing touches. For the Tacoma contract, we’re still in negotiations, waiting for their proposal.” He points to a binder on the table. “It’s all in there, but I’ve also sent you a link to the electronic documents. I’ve marked the key points you’ll need to address.”

“Thanks, Dad. I want to make sure I do you proud.” I grab the binder and flip through it.

“You will.” He squeezes my hand. “You’ve got this, Ivy. And remember, Cillian from McGloughlin Construction has everything under control. He’s been handling things exceptionally well, you won’t be on your own.”

I try to tamp down the jolt running through my body at the sound of his name. My stomach twists into knots. I knew going into this I’d have to work with him. Seeing him again will be…God. I dunno. I’m nervous.

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