Page 10 of Writing On The Wall

Starting tomorrow.

CHAPTER SIX

IVY

I come to a full stop at a traffic light, tapping my thumb on the steering wheel. I’m on my way to see Gran, but there’s time to kill until she’s done with her bingo game at five.

I told Ethan I’d crash with Opal and Gail, so I should at least pay them a visit, even if I don’t plan on allowing my mess to spill into their lives. It helps that they live in the apartment complex opposite Gran’s retirement village, and I know they’ll feed me—that being one of their love languages.

I smile at the vibrant surge of color as my car glides into the parking lot in front of the charming apartments where I first met my best friend Ember’s seventy-year-old neighbors. Pots and planter boxes overflow with flowers, as if a riot of colors has burst forth and refuses to be confined.

I lock my house-car, letting out a heavy sigh as I walk up the path to Gail and Opal’s apartment.

“Knock knock!” I call through the open door.

“Ivy June?” I hear Opal’s voice from inside the apartment.

“That’s me!”

“We weren’t expecting you today! Did you come to see Ember?” she smiles as she approaches.

“Oh, nah,” I wave with a laugh. “I know she technically still lives next door, but she’s definitely with Colton when she’s not at work. How’re you two doin’, though?”

“Pretty good,” she squints at something behind me. “But that Robin keeps crapping in my rain gauge.”

I love it when old people cuss. Can I call “crapping” a cuss word?

“Ivy!” Gail claps triumphantly behind Opal. “You’re just in time to try the top secret new cake recipe I’ve been working on.” She scuttles off, and Opal turns to me with an eye roll.

“The secret is still rum,” she grumbles before her veiny hand pats my shoulder affectionately. “Tea?”

“Yes, please.”

“Gail! Put the kettle on!” she hollers. Then her eyes lock onto mine, like she’s seen something, a crack in my mask. Those same kind eyes narrow, searching deeper, and I hold my breath.

“You’re not sleeping well.”

“Yup.”

That small word is all I manage while we walk to the living room to sink into well-loved floral printed chairs. If I say more or attempt to deny anything, Opal’s laser gaze will only sharpen and cause me to spill my guts. The whole ugly truth will be laid bare.

Unfortunately, I don’t escape her scrutiny. “Brother or Gran?”

“Brother.” My shoulders straighten while I inspect my nails on my lap.

“Hmph. That boy needs a good dose of tough love, Ivy June.”

My head snaps up, and my jaw drops. My parents, bless their hearts, gave him the toughest love possible when they cutties with him a year ago. But I keep thinking he needs a gentler approach this time. So help me God, I will see him on the right path.

“Ross is a good person. He just needs someone to believe in him.”

“Honey, if you believe in him any more, he’ll grow wings and start flying.”

Thankfully, Gail shuffles in and saves me from further defending my brother.

“Oh, I’m so glad you stopped by. Tell me if you can guess the secret ingredient. No spoilers.” She flares her eyes at Opal.

“Visiting your Gran after this?” Gail’s face softens while she pours tea into three dainty teacups.

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