Page 80 of Falling Again
“You did?” Anthony hated to sound so incredulous, but he was speaking with Alice.
“Yep. I’m helping at the library a few days a week. When I stopped by for some new books I bumped into the library director, Lynn. With my experience she said I could help with purchasing the books. There are also some programs the library wants to start.” Turning to Anthony she added, “I think one of the art programs will be with one of your council members... John?”
Anthony thought through his council and realized who she meant. “You mean James Gibson? He’s an artist.”
Alice shrugged, but Anthony could tell she was proud. “I think that’s him, but I haven’t met him. Anyway, I’ll see where it goes.”
“That’s amazing. Congratulations, Alice.” Whether it was the booze, the relief over getting the lake house, or just his general happiness, Anthony pulled Alice in for a hug that crushed her ribs.
Tapping his back, Alice squirmed free. “I know you’re tipsy and in love, but knock it off. I don’t want to lose my appetite for peanut noodles.”
Natalie came in the kitchen and smiled at the sibling bonding. “Alice told you the good news?”
“She certainly did. I guess this means dinner is on her.”
“Pfft. Nice try. You’re an Ohio property baron now. I’m not paying for shit.”
“That’s a quarter!” Madeline shouted from the doorway. “Otis, get the jar.”
Steven chuckled and picked up his granddaughter. “You’ve got a future financial planner on your hands.” Madeline beamed, despite not knowing what that meant.
Otis bounded into the kitchen, the swear jar clasped tightly in his chubby hands. “Here,” he said, handing the jar to Alice. He offered her a ruthless expression for a toddler, and Alice had no choice but to pull out her wallet.
“Can you break a five?” she asked, handing Otis the crumpled bill.
“Pay it forward,” Natalie said, patting Otis on the bottom before he scurried away. Anthony planned to take his wife’s advice, to always think ahead and not dwell on their past missteps. With the children preoccupied, Natalie stepped closer and asked, “I take it from Alice’s comment that we got the lake house?” Her hopeful smile made Anthony’s heart soar.
“We got the lake house. Pack your bags because I want to go back soon.”
Natalie looped her arms around his neck and kissed him. Compared to their kisses that morning, it was tame but just as lovely. “I love you,” she said, melting against him.
Anthony pulled her tighter, breathing in her lemony scent. “I love you too.” He finally felt like things were back on track. He knew it would take time, but Anthony wouldn’t lose Natalie again. He’d fallen hard, and he wouldn’t let her go.
EPILOGUE
One Month Later
