Page 20 of Corrupt Idol

“Just saying.”

She shook her head. “Wow.”

When Jesse sat on Dad’s other side, she left the table. She headed down the hallway and was relieved to see Lynne sitting up in bed.

“Mom?”

Lynne gave her a welcoming smile. “Hi, honey.”

She sat beside her and examined her closely. “How are you feeling?”

Lynne ignored her questions and patted her knee. “Dad tells me you’re moving home?”

“Yes.”

“It didn’t work out in Utah?” Lynne asked sympathetically.

She shook her head.

“I’m sorry it didn’t work out, but I’m happy you’re coming home. Dad’s going to need company after I’m gone.”

She flinched. “Please don’t talk like that. I still haven’t processed this yet.”

“You’re going to be fine.”

Her eyes burned with tears. “How can you say that?”

Lynne cupped her chin. “Because I know you. You’re a sensible girl with a good heart. You know when to throw in the towel and come home. You’re going to be the rock your father needs.”

She wanted to believe Lynne’s view of her, but knew it was false. How could she be a rock for her father when she couldn’t even stand up for herself? And the good heart Lynne believed she possessed had been corrupted by Jesse long ago.

“Do you have a lot to do in Utah?”

She nodded. “I think I should go back and get it all sorted. Is that okay?”

“Of course. It’ll give us all peace of mind and when you come back we can go to Florida!”

“Florida?”

“Yes, remember that trip? It was the best! I want to swim in the ocean, get some sun. That’s second on my bucket list behind you and Jesse being home. What do you think?”

“Going to Florida sounds amazing.”

Lynne beamed. “As soon as you get back, we’ll make arrangements. The faster you wrap up everything in Utah, the sooner we can go.”

“Great.”

“How long do you think you’ll be?”

“I’m not sure, but my friends are already helping me get my things together.”

Lynne’s brows drew together. “How are you getting your car here? Or are you going to sell it?”

“I’ll pack it up and drive it here.”

“That’s too far, Violet.”

“It’ll take me a day or two,” she said with a shrug.

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