Page 101 of Relentless

“It’s me,” Maeve’s voice came muffled through the door.

“I’m — um,” she sputtered. She knew there was an uncomfortable conversation looming, causing her anxiety to flair. “I’m busy.”

“I have coffee,” Maeve offered.

Harper sighed. “Come in.”

The doorknob turned, and Maeve entered the room. She was balancing two mugs in her hands, and closed the door behind her with the toe of her boot. Much to Harper’s dismay, Maeve sat on the edge of the bed and crossed her legs, placing a palm on the soft quilt.

It was clear she was there to talk.

“I didn’t speak up at breakfast this morning — I’m sorry about that,” she began. “I want you to know you’re welcome to join us at church.”

Harper edged up, leaning her back on the headboard as she accepted the hot coffee. She brought it to her lips and took a long drink. “And Oakleigh?”

Maeve swirled the coffee in her mug, gathering her thoughts.

“She’s not ready, Harp.”

Harper took another long drink. Pressing her chapped, dry lips together, she savored the sting.

“But we talked about it,” Maeve continued with a fragile attempt at reassurance. “And she’s not going to pitch a fit if you decide to come.”

After a moment of silence, Maeve stood to her feet and headed to the door.

Harper felt an unexpected tide of emotion rise in her chest and settle as a lump in her throat. Now, with a clearer mind, she couldn’t deny that her recklessness the night before had frightened her.

“I just don’t want to be alone,” she choked, letting her vulnerabilities tumble out against her will.

Maeve paused in the doorway.

“You don’t have to be.”

Chapter 28

Indestructible

Oakleigh turned the Jeep onto the highway, catching the steering wheel as the oversized tires fishtailed on the icy road.

“Woah there,” Crew exclaimed. Snatching for the handle above his head, he stomped his boot on an imaginary brake pedal.

“I’ve got to get out of here,” she exclaimed.

“I understand, love,” he replied, easing his anxious grip. “But let’s get to church in one piece.”

Maeve had gently broken the news that her mother was coming to Sunday service, and Oakleigh could only pray that she would be able to keep her cool. Any healing that had been achieved now was entirely undone. A swell of hurt and anger was simmering just under the surface, and it felt like the slightest inconvenience would cause her to unravel.

“We’re not gonna letherruin your day,” Crew reassured.

His encouragement was sweet, but she was still humiliated. Not only had he been forced to deal with the dumpster fire ofher chaotic family dysfunction yet again, but he had also heard every one of her mother’s venomous insults.

Crossing the bridge onto Main Street, it was evident it would be a busy day for the sleepy town of White Bridge. Despite the inclement weather, the town was already bustling with life.

“It’ll be weird not meeting in the coffee shop anymore,” Oakleigh remarked, pulling the Jeep into the freshly paved church parking lot. She parked in the furthest spot, where they had a clear view of the tall white steeple.

“It’s going to be great,” Crew grinned.

She turned off the Jeep’s engine and sat for a moment in pensive silence. There were many things she wanted to say to Crew, and yet she couldn’t quite find the words.

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