Page 72 of Thanks for the Friendship
“I was just telling Gabby that I think I’ve become a nicer person over time, maybe she’s rubbing off on me.”
She laughs. “Well, you said it.”
After I leave Elizabeth’s office, I’m feeling proud of myself. She already seemed a bit more relaxed than when I first arrived.
When Gabby arrives, I can’t help but feel excited. I hope my idea works out and benefits both her and Elizabeth.
Without fail, Diane Hillard calls me at five o’clock sharp. I did tell her we’d catch up this evening, but I haven’t even left the office yet.
“Hello, Diane,” I say politely.
“Hi. I’m so glad to finally talk to you because I’m in desperate need of your help,” she says, her voice panicked.
“I’ll try my best.”
“Do you have dinner plans?”
For some reason my dinner with Cal pops into my head, but I know that’s not what she’s referring to.
“Um, not tonight.”
“Would you like to come over? I have a roast in the crockpot, and it’s too much food for just Dave and me.”
I might as well get this over with, and a roast does sound delicious.
“Sure. I haven’t left the office yet, but I can be there within a half hour.”
“Oh, that would be terrific. We’ll see you soon.”
“Can I bring anything?” I offer.
“Just yourself.”
When I hang up the phone, I sigh. I already know how this evening is going to go, so I send Cal a quick text.
FYI. Having dinner at the Hillards’. Will keep you posted.
He’s been on shift at the hospital for the last few days, so I haven’t spoken to him other than a quick text about dinner on Friday. It’s actually none of his business if I go to the Hillards’, but considering the situation with Sara, I want to keep him in the loop.
* * *
As soon as I pull into Diane’s driveway, my phone rings. My heart skips a beat when I see Cal’s number on the screen.
“Hey.”
“Hi, is it safe?”
I laugh. “I just pulled up, so yes,” I say. “Is there anything I need to know before I go in there?”
He groans. “Sara has called me a few times, but I haven’t spoken to her.”
“Oh, well, maybe you should talk to her.”
“There’s nothing left to say,” he replies flatly. “I saw AJ at the hospital yesterday, and it just reminded me that I made the right decision. It also reminded me that I should’ve listened to my mother a long time ago.”
“Did your mom tell you to end things?”
“Not in so many words,” he says. “She dropped plenty of hints, but you know her. She tries to be kind to everyone.”
