Page 62 of Broken Rules
In her heart, she heard her nonna say...you’re my gal.
Chapter Nineteen
One month later
Savannah took a deepbreath as she stood outside the back entrance of The Cove.
She knew she wasn’t ready to go back to work, but her grief wouldn’t pay her mortgage. With a deep breath, she pushed open the door.
“Savvy,” Brandi cried out, rushing toward her and throwing her arms around her. “You can’t imagine how much I’ve missed you.” Then she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small wrapped gift. “I hope this is the right thing to give you.”
Savannah smiled, feeling hollow inside. She pulled away the flowered paper, revealing a small frame with a picture of her and Nonna.
“It was taken three years ago at my college graduation party. Nonna got tipsy off the mimosas and told us her words to live by. Remember?”
Savannah smiled, and for once in a long time, the act was real. “I do remember. She told us to stay busy living because one day we wouldn’t be so busy.” She smiled at her friend. “Thanks, Brandi.”
Brandi hooked arms with her as they headed toward the bar. “Have you heard from Damien?”
Once again, Savannah’s heart sank. She shook her head, incapable of speaking her answer.
“Damn it. Sorry! I shouldn’t have brought him up.”
Savannah smiled weakly. “It’s okay. You didn’t know.”
“My girl’s back!”
Savannah turned toward the bar where Roger stood waving her over. “Get over here where you belong.”
When she circled around to where Roger stood, he opened his arms. Surrendering to his warmth, she fell against his solid strength. He wrapped his arms around her. She closed her eyes and expelled a long breath, resting her cheek against his chest.
“You’re gonna be all right, Savannah.”
She nodded. “If I can just stay right here forever, I will be.”
“That will put a damper on both our love lives.” He pulled away a little and crooked his thumb beneath her chin. His gaze shone with affectionate warmth. “I mean it. You’re gonna be fine. You’re Savannah freaking Honey.” He flashed his gorgeous smile at her. Then he crossed to the register and grabbed the TV remote from the tip jar.
