Page 104 of Meet Me in the Vines
Dad
Hey son. Are you ready for tonight?
Donovan
More than ready.
Dad
Good. Your mother told me to tell you not to overcook the pasta and that fresh pasta only takes 2-3 minutes to cook.
Donovan
Haha, I know dad. Tell her thanks.
Dad
Does Audrey have any idea?
Donovan
About the pasta? No. It’s a surprise
Dad
No dummy. The other thing?
Donovan
Oh. Uhh, I don’t think she does. I hope not.
Dad
Well, I’m happy for you, son.
Donovan
Thanks dad.
Dad
Good luck, not that you need it.
and I love you.
Donovan
Thanks dad. I love you too.
It’s hard for your perspective on life not to shift entirely when you die. Since taking a bullet to the heart, it’s only grown bigger and stronger for those I love in my life. My family is at peace for the first time since we lost James. Audrey takes up so much of my heart that sometimes, I don’t know what to do with all the love I have for her.
But tonight, I know just how to show her.
Chapter Thirty-Six
AUDREY
“My name is Audrey Winthrop, and I’m on week eight of this program. My last week,” I say, a grin stretching across my face. I sit in a rickety plastic chair surrounded by seven other women. Their eyes beam at me but still hold a brokenness that we all share. It never truly goes away. It’s a fight to keep the glimmer. But we’re in this fight together—I’m not alone.
