Page 126 of Until You

“Thanks.” She closed the distance between her and her cousin, sad all over again. It wasn’t just Tyler whom she was leaving.

“You look beautiful, Britt,” she said. “You look happy.”

“I am,” Britt said. “What’s this I hear about you leaving?” When Lanie didn’t respond, Britt pressed on. “How can you leave after falling in love with Tyler? Do you know what a great guy he is?”

“I lost my job, Britt, but I’m lucky to have found a new one. I tried to find a way to stay here in Kansas City, but it didn’t work out.” Her voice broke. “You have no idea how badly I wanted it to work out.”

Britt pulled her into a hug. “I know, Randy told me about Tyler and the injunctions. I’m sorry.”

Lanie kissed her cheek, then headed for the front door. She needed a moment to clear her head.

She stood outside, looking up into the stars for a couple of minutes, when she heard the door open behind her. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you I was coming outside,” she said. “But I just needed a moment.”

“Then maybe I should go back in,” Aiden said.

Lanie turned around in surprise. “Aiden. I thought you were Tyler.”

“You needed a moment from Tyler?”

“No, I needed a moment from all the people trying to tell me that moving to Atlanta is a bad idea.”

His eyebrows rose. “People think you shouldn’t move?”

“Not because of the job. Because I’m leaving Tyler.”

“Why are you leaving Tyler?”

“Come on, Aiden,” she said. “You know why. I need a job.” She pushed out a sigh and rubbed her temple. “That sounded bad. I’m really excited about working for you and with you. I believe in what you’re doing.” She gave him a sad smile. “If only I could pick up your business and move it to Kansas City, it would be perfect.”

“Lane, I’m so sorry you’re facing this choice. I’m not going to lie—I’m excited you’re coming—but I hate to see you so torn.”

“It’s part of growing up, right? You have to make the hard choices.” She wiped a tear from her cheek.

“Yeah. I guess so.” He motioned to the door. “Now, let’s get you inside before Tyler comes out here and kicks my ass for keeping you away from him in the short time he has left.”

Lanie gave him a hug. “Thanks, Aiden. You’ve been a godsend.”

He laughed. “I like the sound of ‘godsend.’”

She shook her head with a grin. “Don’t let it go to your head.”

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