Page 32 of Flawless Aria

It’s always been Stephanie’s goal to flip the tables and make it about her. No matter what crisis or tragedy comes up. Always wanting the upper hand. Today, she failed. She found out it’s not about her anymore and all about Aria.

Until I take my last breath, I will always be here for my girls.

“She’s gone, and if she knows what’s good for her, she won’t be back,” I say. “What matters is that you’re here. Right where you belong. As long as you’re by my side, there’s nothing I can’t handle. Now, is there something you wanted to tell me?”

And wouldn’t you know, we’re interrupted when Jim comes walking out of the room.

“Your mother never ceases to amaze me. Aria, why don’t you pop in to see her since we’ve both been in already?”

ARIA

“Oh,I couldn’t impose. I’m sure she’d rather see Jax than me any day.” My nerves are already shot and that might tip me over the edge.

“It’s not an imposition, Aria. She was asking if you were here so it’s the perfect time. Guess she’s tired of us men fussing over her. Perhaps she needs a woman’s touch. Would you mind?”

Well, when he asks so nicely, how can I refuse? I can’t.

“Not at all. I’m more than happy to keep her company. As long as you both promise to behave yourselves.” Jax crosses his heart, and Jim gives me the scout’s honor sign. Suck it up, Aria. You got this.

My nerves kick up a notch as I step inside the room. I prepare myself for the worst, but I’m taken aback at how well Trish looks. Relief instantly washes over me. You’d never know she had a stroke.

“Sweetie. Come here.” Holding out her hand, she beckons me. I gladly rush to her side, taking her hand in mine. “Don’t be worried, I’m fine.” The hell she is, but I don’t remind her of what just happened.

“That’s easier said than done. You’re in the ICU at Blake Edwards Hospital.”

“Oh, I know I gave my family a scare. I’m just thankful Jim was there and quick on his feet. Poor man was so upset, he grabbed my phone by mistake. Doc said he saved my life.”

“We’re all so grateful that he was home. Mom sends her love and as soon as you’re up to it, she’d love to come visit. I promised to keep her posted.”

“I’d love to see her, but perhaps we should wait until I get home. It’s hard cramming everything you want to tell someone in fifteen minutes or less. When you have a near death experience, you pray for one more conversation with the ones you love.”

“I understand. Completely. Jax or Jim should be here with you, not me.” Letting go of her hand, I get ready to leave when she grabs my arm. Tightly. Wow, she sure is strong after having a stroke.

“I’ve told them everything I’ve needed to say just in case I kick the bucket. Don’t look so scared, Aria. I don’t plan on dying today. You’re the one I need to talk to.”

Oh crap on a cracker. Did Jax spill the beans?

“Rumor has it that your engagement to Jax is as fake as a plastic plant. Thankfully, I know better. I watched your love blossom for Jax over the years. Always taking a back seat to Stephanie must have been tough, but your patience and genuine affection never wavered. Now, seeing you both together, it’s clear that your love is as real as it gets.”

This can’t be true, can it? Did she see something happening between us that neither of us were aware of? I dread the fact that her thoughts could be triggered by her stroke.

“Jax has always been my protector and he’s so easy to love. The bad boy rockstar has a kind heart and a gentle soul. We have a lot in common, he and I. We both wear our heart on our sleeve, and it hasn’t always been easy. I’ve loved him for a long time, but I’ve only recently fallen in love with him.” Could Jax have been right when he mentioned he’s been with the wrong sister all those years?

“If that’s true, then why are you so unwilling to get married? Set a date? I’m sorry, sweetie, but I observed you at the engagement party and something was off.”

I become uncomfortable the second she mentions the wedding. More so after she brought up the party. All of this is my fault. Wouldn’t it be easier if I just told her the truth?

“Stephanie being there made me very uncomfortable. She made a few nasty remarks at the table, and it was upsetting. I apologize if I wasn’t myself, but being engaged to my sister’s ex isn’t the norm.” Telling her the truth now is out of the question. She’s already been through so much.

“Jim mentioned that she was here today. It wasn’t her place. And, as difficult as it must have been, I’m glad you still came. Jax needs you here and so do I. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m getting a little sleepy. We’ll continue our discussion soon.”

She’s soon nodding off, so I step out of the room. After the conversation we just had, I want to run.

As soon as I walk out of the room, yes, I walked. I’m proud of myself. Jax quickly comes to my rescue. Not sure if I have that ‘Oh my god’ look on my face, but he senses I’m uncomfortable.

“Everything okay, baby? Is something wrong with Mom?” He hesitates, but he’s also ready to storm inside the room.

“Everything’s fine. She’s sleeping so I decided to let her rest.”

---