Page 98 of Steps

“Hey...”

“It’s okay, Mom.” I break away from her and goback inside before she can press me further.

It’s the day before the ceremony. Marie, thewedding planner, has arrived to sort out décor and make sure everything is set.The event company she’s working with here in Scotland is setting up tables andchairs, along with a white tent in the vast yard, and stringing wire lightsaround the place.

I stand at the window, looking down. Later, we’llbe rehearsing, and I’ll have to try hard to suppress my own feelings and behappy for my mom the way I always do.

Someone knocks on the door. Taking a deep breath,I tell whoever it is, “Come in.”

Daniel enters the room as I turn from the window.

He smiles at me. “Hey, you. Can we talk for abit?”

“Sure. What’s up?”

“I probably should have said this before, butsince tomorrow’s the day, I just wanted to make sure you know that I love andcare deeply for your mom.”

“I know, Daniel,” I reply softly. “It’s in your actions.”

He edges closer. “Also, Lisa told me you haven’thad the best father figures in your life. And even though you’re almosteighteen, I’d still love to be that for you, Toya. Just like Alison and Varen,you can count on me to be there for you when you need me.”

His sincerity makes me feel sad. “That’s kind ofyou to say.” I do want a family and Varen.

Daniel lessens the distance and embraces me forthe first time ever. I bask in the warmth.So this is what a dad’s hug feelslike.

He pats my head lovingly. “You know, I neverthanked you for what you’ve done with Varen.” My heart thumps at his name. Ipull away from Daniel.

Joy is plastered all over his face. “Can youbelieve he finally talked to me about all the hurt he’s been bottling upinside? He’s more open now. I don’t know how you did it, but he’s changed.”

I turn my head. “Didn’t do anything really.”Only my heart, soul, and body.

Daniel chuckles short. “Oh, I’m sure you’ve made apositive impact on him. All Varen talks about is how great a person you are. Headmires you a whole lot. You’ve inspired him to turn his life around.” Hepauses. “Thank you. You were the friend he needed, Toya.” I don’t want to bejust his friend or stepsister. I want to be with him. Ilovehim.

“Hm.”

“You’re a wonderful young lady. I’m happy to haveyou in my family.”

Ugh.

“I’m happy, too.”

Before leaving the room, Daniel gives my arm agentle squeeze and a peck on the cheek.

I release the breath I’ve just now realized I’vebeen holding. God, wish I could go to that field right now and scream along tothe rumble of every incoming and departing plane.

23

Courtesy of Daniel, Mom’s hairstylist flew out toScotland for the big day. She leaves all three of us looking stunning afterdoing our hair and makeup.

Alison and I put on our wine-toned bridesmaids’ dresses.Mine has only one sleeve, while Alison’s is strapless. Then we watch as my momslips into her beautiful mermaid wedding gown, and I hand her the white rosebouquet with the wine-colored velvet ribbon, which Grandma Kirby was kindenough to make for her.

Mom’s smile falters a tad as she glances overherself in the mirror. “I wish Momma was here with me.”

Setting aside my complicated feelings, I offercomfort. “She is. We’re both here for you.” I smile. “You look so beautiful,Mom.”

“Thanks, Toya.” Spinning from the mirror, shegives me a long and genuine hug. “Thank you for sticking with me. I know it washard.”

“All in the past,” I remind her, rubbing her arm.

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