Page 17 of When Sparks Fly

My cheeks flame again and one side of his mouth quirks up as he breaks eye contact briefly. I’m unsure if it’s for his benefit or mine.

“I just wanted to check on you.” His interest seems different than Andi’s. Though no less authentic.

“Thank you.” My heart beats erratically in my chest. “Yes, I do tend to talk to myself. No need to worry. It’s only a problem if I answer.”

This time, I’m rewarded with a grin and my stupid heart does a somersault. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Andi rounds the corner then and stops abruptly to avoid running into us. “Oh! Sutton.” She looks between us. “Are you ready?”

“Whenever you are.” His deep voice and the way he treats his mom does things to my insides. Things my insides have no business thinking about on a day like today.

My pocket vibrates.

Andi offers a small wave. Sutton gestures for her to pass him and lead down the steps before he tips his head in a silent farewell. I press my lips into a tight smile.

When they’re both in Sutton’s truck, I check my messages.

Izzy:

I love you so much. You have all my strength today.

Brunch next week when I’m back?

Leah:

Yes, please.

Me:

Perfect.

When the final guest departs, Stephanie and Alan ensure the catering team is clearing everything to their liking. Randi, Liv, and I ignore the clattering of dishes and rolling of carts out to the small refrigerated truck hidden by the garage as we say goodbye in the front yard.

“What time would you like us to come over tomorrow?” Randi calls lightly to her sister. Tension builds inside me. I discovered while looking over the will that Nana excluded Stephanie from any inheritance, so long as she’s married to Alan. Not only was I thoroughly surprised, but I don’t see Stephanie leaving him. This threatens to be a massive sore spot.

The task outlined for tomorrow is daunting at best, especially after the emotional struggles today, but we have limited time to discuss the items within Nana’s house. According to the will, Randi has final say over the house and anything in it, while Stephanie and Alan are married. Although probate hasn’t started and nothing should leave the house, the sisters have agreed to sort through sentimental items.

Stephanie’s face gives away no hint of emotion. “As soon as you’re ready. We’ll sort through what’s needed and leave the rest for the professionals. Alan spoke with a company this morning who will come by and pack whatever is left and disperse it where needed.”

My eyes snap to the ground and I shake my head in disbelief. What could make a daughter so apathetic to the loss of their mother? Sadly, I have an idea. But that’s never been the nature of Nana.

When I look up, Liv is staring at me with wide eyes and a sick look on her face. Her thoughts must mimic my own.

Randi manages to maintain her composure—how, I can’t be sure, because my sweet aunt is on the precipice of an emotional breakdown. “We’ll be over by eight. You and I can discuss what you want to take, but I’m not getting rid of anything at this point.” Randi and Liv depart without another word, climbing into Randi’s SUV.

“Mother would’ve been pleased at the turnout,” Stephanie declares and I draw my gaze from the driveway, settling my stare on my mother and step-father again.

I force a dip of my chin in response. The entire town has bolstered her ego this afternoon with comments on how beautiful the reception turned out. I will be damned before I add fuel to that inferno. In truth, it was a well-executed event. Unfortunately, I can’t say so because while Stephanie doesn’t need to have anyone on her side to believe in the validity of herthoughts and statements; if even one person favors her position, then it will be a cold day in Hell before she’ll back down. So I keep my thoughts to myself, knowing none of it was done for the right reason, anyway.

“It’s been a long day, I’m going to rest.” I don’t pause for a response as I head into the house.

Chapter 9

Sutton

After the funeral, I head to Terrence’s to let him know we plan to move forward. During the drive, my mind drifts to the events of the day. And more than I care to admit, to Maci.

The service went as expected, until the minister invited Maci up from the front pew. She was wearing a blue dress, unlike the rest of the family, and she blew a kiss to the photo of Ms. Ruthie on display after speaking. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her.

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