Page 49 of Barefoot Dreams
“No.”
“Then why did you do it?”
“Because that was the best solution.”
“Spill, honey.”
“It was Owen.”
“Ah.” Mom nods in immediate understanding. Mom and I have a great relationship that is more than just mother-daughter. She was my only friend until Jacob came to Loverly and to this day, she’s the one I trust inexplicably.
“Yeah.” I turn to the ocean.
“He wasn’t your person.” I’m not surprised Mom knows this. I’m also not surprised she never shared her opinion with me. That’s Lily Lovinski for you, she believes you are meant to find your way all on your own, without pressure or expectations.
Except when it comes to my brother and his marriage status.
“No, he wasn’t,” I agree.
“I know it hurts now, but your road is just beginning, and I have all the faith in the universe it’ll be one of the most beautiful ones. Now, brighten up and tell me what it is I hear about you showing your radishes to Griffin Owling?”
“Oh, no!” I gape at my mother in horror. “Where did you hear about that?”
“Where do you think?”
I groan, slapping my palm over my face. “That’s not—”
“There’s nothing to be ashamed of, honey.” Mom pats my shoulder sweetly.
“Oh, I know, it’s just not what’s happening here.”
“What?” It’s mom’s turn to frown. “Why?”
“Um, because we’re just friends?”
Her frown deepens. “Why?”
“Because I’m scared.” I lay my head on my knees, looking at her.
“Of what, my love?” Mom brushes loose hairs off my forehead.
“Getting hurt again,” I admit quietly.
“Oh, honey, that’s inevitable. I just never took you for one to hide behind it.”
“What if he rejects me?”
“What if you never try? I think that’s far scarier than knowing for certain, even if the knowledge is painful.”
That is scarier…and if I can’t let Griffin live with his fears, I shouldn’t either.
I’m eyeing the now cold cherry-vanilla mushroom coffee, my eyes flickering from the cup to the door, but the morning comes and goes, and Griffin doesn’t show up. His croissant is still sitting in the paper bag next to the cup, waiting, but it’s almost time to close for the day. Lia is wiping down the tables, and I pour the drink out.
The seagulls will enjoy the croissant.
Maybe he was busy today and couldn’t make it? But he always showed up before, and the fact that he didn’t today is making my stomach feel uneasy.
It’s okay, Julie, he’ll be here tomorrow and all will be fine.
