Page 129 of Babies at Coconuts

“But your parents are alive,” Cheri said.

Hope nodded. “Yes, somehow, someway they both miraculously survived, which is wonderful—except now there’s a third person in the mix and Larry’s in love with her.”

“This is a freaking soap opera storyline,” Alex said. “I can see it playing in my head.”

Hope’s voice rose. “I know. But it’s my life.”

“Sorry. I’m not making light of the situation. I didn’t mean it that way.” Alex studied her friend. “You have to admit it’s surreal.”

“Tell me about it. I wish I had a crystal ball.”

Cheri brightened. “I know a psychic.”

Hope shook her head. “No way.”

Alex continued, “Hope, you’ve got to figure this out on your own. I can see several scenarios, but it’s your family and your decision.”

Suzy nodded. “It’s definitely your call. You know we’ll support you no matter what.”

“I know.” Hope held up her hands in obvious exasperation. “I guess there isn’t a huge rush, well, except for the engagement.” She groaned. “I’m afraid of damaging Larry’s non-existent memory, worried about what it’ll do to Willow’s happiness, plagued by what I owe to Montana—and to Larry.” Hope buried her face in her hands. “Even as a counselor, I don’t think I’m equipped for this.” She put her sweater on. “I’m not ready to deal with it. Let’s don’t talk about this again unless I bring it up. I feel like I’m balancing a delicate china doll on one finger. Be right back.”

When Hope went to the restroom, her friends studied one another in a state of open-mouthed shock. Alex turned to Suzy. “What would you do? I might leave well enough alone but I’d probably feel guilty for eternity.”

Suzy stared at her tea. “This is a tough one. I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t at least try to contact Montana, but it’s up to Hope. Besides, I have enough family issues.”

“And I have boyfriend issues. Hope’s on her own with this one.”

After Hope returned, Cheri grinned. “It’s a good thing I didn’t stay in Paris one second longer. Look what I almost missed. I never knew having girlfriends would be so fascinating.”

“Oh, there are more revelations to discuss.” Suzy cleared her throat for obvious emphasis and ran her fingers through her hair. “Get ready for another shock.”

The three women swiveled toward Suzy.

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