Page 85 of The Women of Oak Ridge
Jonas also stood and shook hands with Dad. “Glad to do it, sir. Let me know if there’s anything else you, Mae, or Laurel need.”
I gave Dad a hug, then he headed to the kitchen.
“He insists on sleeping on the pullout sofa,” I whispered. “I’m sorry I can’t invite you to stay for some lemonade.”
“That’s okay.” We moved to the porch, listening as cricketsand tree frogs sang a peaceful melody. “I enjoyed hanging out with you tonight.” His gaze held mine. “I know it’s selfish, but I hope you stay in Oak Ridge a while longer. I like being with you, Laurel Willett.”
My stomach did a little flip. I couldn’t look away. “I like being with you too, Detective Tyson.”
His lips lifted in a grin. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
I watched him drive away, unable to stop smiling.
After Peggy went outside, I locked the door and made up the sofa bed for Dad. He came out of the bathroom while I was finishing up.
“Jonas seems like a nice young man,” he said.
I nodded. “He is. He’s been extremely helpful, both with my research and with Aunt Mae.”
Dad chuckled. “I promise not to read too much into this, but you know your mother is going to have a thousand questions if I tell her about Jonas.”
I groaned. “Then let’s not. Jonas and I are just friends. Even if I stay in Oak Ridge a little longer, my life is in Boston. His life is here.”
Dad studied me a lengthy moment. “All I’ll say is, life is short, Laurel. You don’t want to live with regrets. I’m starting to wonder if that’s what my sister’s life has been like all these years. Secrets and regrets.”
His words followed me as I readied for bed. Peggy ditched me in favor of sleeping with Dad on the couch, so I stretched out in the dark and gazed out the window at the stars. I said a prayer for Aunt Mae, then whispered, “Lord, I don’t know what’s happening between Jonas and me, but I really like him. I know you have plans and purposes for each of our lives. Lead both of us as we spend time together.”
Sweet dreams claimed me the moment “Amen” crossed my lips.
