Page 65 of Moonlit Kisses

“I do.”

“Mom and Dad always say stuff like that, but I figured they have to say that. You know?”

We talk for a while about her plans, and she tells me a little about Noah before her expression grows serious. “Dad is a genuinely great person, you know.” I’m a little taken aback at her sudden declaration. “I overheard my parents talking about how you walked out on him when you guys met for dinner. He was crying and telling Mom that he was worried that he’d blown his chance to get to know you.”

My heart sinks. I don’t want her to hate me because I upset her dad.Mydad. God, that’s weird to get used to. “I’m sorry, Holly.”

She shakes her head. “I didn’t tell you to make you feel bad. I’m trying to put myself in your shoes. It must be weird to meet your dad for the first time. I don’t exactly know the story or what happened between Dad and your mom, but I get the impression she was his first love. It grosses me out. Mom was … like … friends with them when they were dating.” She grimaces and shivers. “I know my dad and I know it’s important to him to have a relationship with you now he’s found you.” She shrugs. “I just want you to give him a chance. He’s been the best dad a girl could ask for.” She smiles and turns her head around, showing me her fancy braid. “He did this. Mom can’t braid my hair if her life depended on it. Dad’s always been the one to make my hair all fancy. I haven’t bothered learning how to do this stuff, because I know he’ll do it for me.” She chuckles as she shrugs. “But it’s more than fancy braids. I know if I need him for anything, he’ll be there. He won’t judge me or make me feel bad for making a mistake. He’ll help me work things out so I can get back on track. Dad’s never let me down. Like ever!”

I lay my hand over hers to settle her. She likes to fidget with her fingers like I fidget with my bracelet. “I’m thrilled to hear that. It’s important for girls to have a great role-model in their dad. I had a fabulous stepdad who always showed me exactly what I was worth. He taught me a lot about myself, and I only have happy, fond memories of him now.” I shrug. “I think things with your dad,ourdad, will settle down eventually. We just have to find our way.”

Her eyes widen. “Does that mean you’ll give him a chance?”

“Of course. I was always going to give him a chance. I just … I need some time, Holly.”

Her smile reveals deep dimples to match mine, and her eyes light up. “I’m so happy to hear that. I’d better message Mom to come get me. It’s getting close to dinner, and I still have homework to do.” She drops her head back on her shoulders and groans. “I hate homework.”

“We all do. Trust me, you’re not alone. I can drop you home if you’re not too far from here. I don’t know my way around the city very well yet.”

“I don’t live that far from here. I could have walked, but Mom wanted to make sure I got here safely.”

A few minutes later, I stop in front of a stunning three-story home. The lights are already on inside, giving it a welcoming feel. “You have a lovely home.”

Holly looks up at it from her position in my car. “It’s okay.” She shrugs. “It’s just a house.” She has no idea how lucky she is to have a home, let alone one so beautiful. I’m glad that she takes it for granted because it means she’s never gone without. Holly opens her door. “Thanks for the ride. Will I see you again?” she asks timidly.

“Of course. I’ve got years of teasing to catch up on.” I wink at her.

“Cool. Bye.” She slams the door and takes the steps up to the front door, two at a time. Beth’s waiting at the door for her. She waves at me, and I return it, then turn my car around so I can watch Max’s soccer game.

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