He moves in, and the kiss is sweet and slow and perfect. It’s the kiss that I wished for and dreamed and I will never forget it.
ChapterEighteen
BRIELLE
“Yes, Addy, it’s totally safe,” I reassure her with the same words I said to my mother an hour ago.
“I just . . . worry.”
“You’re supposed to be worrying less since you left.”
“Well, clearly, I’m failing.”
I sigh. “How is Elodie?”
“She’s good. She’s been having fun playing with Devney’s family. She has a lot of nieces and nephews. She is trying to crawl!”
“Oh! I wish I could see it.”
“I’ll take video,” Addy promises.
“So, you’re comfortable in the guest house?” I ask.
“It’s not a guest house.” She laughs. “It’s a freaking huge house. When I first saw it, I was completely thrown off because it’s amazing. I was really worried about fitting in, but her sisters-in-law are all amazing and we’re comfortable here. Ellie, Brenna, and Sydney all stop by or make us come over for dinner, and they are just—kind. Brenna’s husband died a few years ago, so it’s been nice to have someone who understands what it’s like to be a widow.”
I hate that she even has to utter that word. “I am so glad it’s been good for you.”
“It has been. I really needed this.”
“How long do you think you’ll stay?”
She sighs. “I don’t know. The Arrowoods told me I could stay as long as I want, and since Sean is in Florida for the start of the season, it’s helping Devney not be alone too.”
I had this horrible feeling that Addy would stay much longer. “I miss you.”
“I miss you too. I really do, but it’s been really nice getting away. I will definitely be back by her birthday.”
Four months. Great.
“That’s not that soon.”
“No, but that’s the deadline I’ve given myself. I’ve been able to go to the store without someone stopping me to cry about Isaac. I can take Elodie for a walk without pity stares. It’s just allowed me to grieve a bit on my own.”
“I understand. I do.”
“It’s not that I don’t want to be there for you or . . . anything like that. I just don’t want to relive everything over and over.”
“I really do get it.”
I wouldn’t want to either. This town is small and intrusive, even though they mean well. Addison wasn’t able to have time alone because people just want to help.
“Tell me what’s new there.”
I debate telling her about my theory on the connection to the youth center. I can’t stop thinking that there’s a tie-in with it and Isaac’s murder. The money trail doesn’t add up, someone broke into my office, and I am not sure what exactly I may have known or if I shared my concern with him. If I did, he wouldn’t have sat idly by. So, maybe the answer is with her.
Instead of saying any of that, I go a different route. “I made out with Spencer, and we went on a date.”
“Youwhat?” she screeches.