Page 37 of Where Are You Now
“Look, I know you don’t have the flu. And I can tell that something major has happened in your life. But if I promise not to ask about it, will you spend some time with me? I actually need you.” A lump formed in her throat.
“What?”
“You and my dad were the only two people who seemed to get me. I’ve never found anyone else who does. And Dad’s not here. My life is pretty much falling apart. I won’t dump all that on you because I’m sure you have your own life to deal with, but hanging out with you and doing something outside my regular day lifts my spirits. No pressure. Just sit with me. I think your presence alone will help.”
He didn’t answer.
“Maybe just a walk or something after I finish my testing?” Her voice broke, surprising her, and a tear slipped down her temple.
“Don’t cry.” His voice was almost a whisper.
“Sorry. I’ve been emotional since the accident. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”
“Nothing’s wrong with you. You’re allowed to cry.”
“I’m fine. I’m not going to cry.” She straightened out her voice. “But taking a nice walk tomorrow might be good for me.”And maybe you.
He let out a breath on the other end of the line. “We could go to Percy Warner Park?”
Ava sat up.Did he just say yes?“Sure. What time?”
“What time is your testing?”
She wanted to remind him thathecould do the testing and they could walk right after, but she didn’t want to push her luck.
“It’s at ten. How about we meet at eleven fifteen?”
“All right. I’ll meet you at the limestone steps at the Belle Meade Boulevard entrance.”
A tingle of excitement shot through her battered body. “That sounds perfect.”
“Good night, Ava.”
The softness in the words wrapped around her like a warm hug, and she couldn’t wait to see him tomorrow.
“Good night.”
Chapter Twelve
“You’re mighty chipper this morning,” Martha said as Ava moved past her and slid a tray of muffins into the oven. “Are you …baking?”
“You had pumpkin seeds in the pantry, and I felt like making my superfood muffins. You’re welcome to try one when they’re done. They’re delicious.” She set the oven timer.
“Hello, Alien Ava. What have you done with my moody daughter?”
Ava laughed. “I feel decent today. Even my side is feeling good.” She ran her hand over the spot that had caused so much pain when she’d first gotten home.
Her mother peered into Ava’s half-empty mug. “What was in this coffee? I’d like what you’re having.”
“Would it be okay if I drove your car to therapy?”
Her mother cocked her head to the side. “You want to drive?”
“I think I can do it. And I’m meeting Lucas at Percy Warner Park for a walk after.”
Her mother produced a knowing nod. “Sothat’swhy …”
Ava tried to shrug it off, but she failed miserably. “I called him last night.” She told her mother about their phone call. “I couldn’t believe he agreed.” That flutter of happiness returned, making her almost giddy.
