Page 134 of Twisted Collide

I halt my steps and continue to watch the main house. Just then, my father walks into the room and grabs a cup from the cabinet.

My lips tip up into a smile. Is he helping her set the table? Despite everything and the way I’ve acted, he held me and comforted me. I can’t stop thinking about it.

I cried, and he was there for me. His concern for me was evident in the gentle way he held me and made sure I was okay. It’s definitely a side to him I’ve never seen before, but to be honest, a part of me yearns for it now that I have.

For a second, my body freezes. I can’t seem to will it to move toward the guesthouse. I’m locked in place, staring at them through the large bay window.

What would it be like to be included?

You are included.

They invited me every opportunity they got. I’m the asshole who pushed them away and said no. Maybe it’s time to stop being afraid.

Taking a deep inhale, I make my decision, allowing my feet to carry me in the direction I want to go.

It’s time to try.

My heart pounds in my chest as I approach the back door.I don’t want to barge in, so I lift my hand and knock.

I can see them as they realize they aren’t alone. My father’s eyes go wide when he catches my gaze and dashes over to open the door.

“No need to knock.” He steps aside to let me in. “You’re always welcome.”

For the first time since I got to Redville, I believe him.

It’s as if a light switch went on the day he held me. I’m no longer dredged in darkness, trying to find my way. I’m able to see a light, and ironically enough, it’s the father I never knew existed who leads the way.

“Are you joining us for dinner?”

I glance over my shoulder to look at him, and the softness and hope in his eyes make my chest lurch.

“I’d like that,” I admit, realizing I would. This is not a lie.

“Fabulous. Sherry and I just finished setting the table in the dining room.” He ruffles my hair like I’m five, and the knot inside me begins to untangle. “Come on in before Sherry eats everything. Never come between that woman and a peach cobbler.”

From beyond the foyer, I catch someone shouting, “I heard that. Don’t be surprised if we conveniently run out of chicken when it’s your turn to be served.”

Suddenly, there’s nowhere I’d rather be than in that dining room, having dinner with my father.

Jittery nerves trickle through my system, twisting my fingers together. “Are you sure it isn’t—”

“Yes, I’m sure.” My father nods, leaving no room for discussion. “We want you here. Now let’s go eat.”

He ushers me into the dining room, where Sherry already is.

“Josie. Are you eating with us?” Her voice rises in excitement as she asks the same question as him.

My father steps forward, placing a hand on my shoulder. “She is.”

Sherry smiles warmly at him and then pats the seat next toher. “Sit beside me, then you can see your father better.” I slip into the seat, stiffening when she leans in to whisper in my ear, “You’ll need the vantage point to catch him stealing food off your plate.”

I suspect she’s joking on purpose to loosen me up, and it works…until I notice there’s already a place setting in front of me. Sherry follows my gaze.

I fiddle with the placemat, suddenly overwhelmed. “It’s set?”

“It is.”

“Why?”

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