Page 63 of Knot a Good Idea

“There’s not much to know,” I tell her. “They started a tech company and they like board games.”

Devyn blinks, then sighs in disappointment. “You’re right. That’s pretty boring.”

Skylar bursts out laughing while my mom stands near the couch and keeps an eye on me.

“So, what did you do this weekend?” she asks, keeping her voice light.

But I recognize that suspicious tone.

“Well, I told you before, we had that art gala,” I say, keeping my tone neutral. “It was nice.” I turn to Devyn. “You want to see my outfit for it? I have pictures on my phone.”

Her bright blue eyes widen. “Yes! Yes, show me.”

“How much caffeine have you had today?”

She smirks. “Not enough.”

My mom lingers in the room with us, and as soon as Skylar and Devyn leave, the tension between us grows thick.

She follows me into the kitchen as I grab a glass of water.

“So,” she starts. “Do you want to tell me why there’s a sudden generous donation in the fundraiser account?"

"Skylar told me something about that.” I put my glass down and lean against the counter, looking anywhere but at her.

“Yes. More than enough to cover all expenses and salaries for the next five years.”

That gets my attention. “Wait, what?”

How much did Donovan deposit?

Five fuckingyears?

My mom doesn’t look relieved. She lookslivid.

“Yes. An anonymous donor.” Her eyes narrow as she glares at me. “To celebrate finding you safely.”

I swallow. “That’s a good thing, right?” I ask shakily. “Now we don’t have to worry about everyone’s jobs. We can do much more with the café.”

“What did you do, April?” My mom’s voice is soft.

I cross my arms. “What do you mean?”

“Do you really think I’m that stupid?”

I frown. “Absolutely not. You’re the smartest person I’ve ever met.”

But my mom’s anger only grows. “Then explain to me why you’re suddenly going on helicopter rides with a man you’ve metonce. And why money is mysteriously appearing, after we talked extensively about our financial troubles.”

I shrug. “Coincidence.”

She cocks her head. “Coincidence.”

“Yes. Why are you so upset? This is a great thing for us. We can pay off loans, everyone can keep their jobs?—”

“Are you selling yourself?” My mom’s voice breaks on the last word.

The world stops.

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