Page 135 of Mountain Daddy
She’s stunning and not at all what I expected.
Not that Luther wouldn’t have beautiful children. She just looks nothing like him.
Must look like her mom.
I blink.
How have I never asked about her mom?
“How’s that big old brain feeling?” Dad asks as he releases her.
Ashley laughs and taps a finger to the side of her head. “The brain is happy finals are over and that we never have to take another test, ever.”
Dad nods. “It’s a good feeling. I’m proud of you, kid.”
She beams.
And guilt claws at my stomach.
Then she turns her attention to me, giant smile still in place.
Even though we’re only an arm’s length away from each other, Ashley lifts her hand, giving me a wave. “Hi.”
“Hello.” I wave back, feeling so incredibly awkward.
There’s a beat of uncomfortable silence before she shrugs. “Sorry, I’m a hugger.”
By the time I register her words, she’s stepping into me and pulling me into a hug.
After a second, I gently hug her back, the card in my hand crinkling with the motion. “It’s, um, nice to meet you.”
I can barely see over her shoulder, but I still widen my eyes at Luther as he walks up behind her.
His jaw twitches, and I can’t tell if he’s amused or as stressed out as I am.
“Totally same.” Ashley gives me a squeeze before she lets me go and steps back.
Luther stops beside her, in front of my dad.
“Welcome to the party.” Luther’s voice settles some of my nerves.
Dad reaches out and slaps him on the shoulder.
“Thanks for having us.” I try to say it as normal as possible, but I still feel overwhelmed with awkwardness.
Dad says something about the weather, and I open my mouth to tell Ashley I like her hair, but when I glance at her, I find her looking down.
At my feet.
I glance down, wondering if I stepped in something.
But I don’t…
My heart stops.
My sandals.
The same sandals I was wearing the other night when I was here.
