Page 46 of Quintessentially

“Keep it a secret. This morning was rough.”

“Then tea it is.” When she hands me the first cup, Mom says, “I’m glad you told Dax about Molly.”

“I didn’t. I did, but he already knew.”

Mom’s eyes open wide. “Who told him?”

“Ruth.” I smirk. “Not before she died. She kept her promise.” I remember what Dax said. “Apparently, she had a box in a closet at the house filled with pictures. Dax found them and put two and two together.”

“He did but so did you. You put one and one together and made three.”

Warmth fills my cheeks. “That wasn’t what I meant.”

Mom’s smile grows. “So…sweet Ruth Richards had a plan.”

I wrap my fingers around the warm mug. “Dax said he’ll sign over the store. He also said that Ruth had an additional stipulation that must be done before he can sign.”

“What?”

“He has to work two days at Quintessential Treasures with me.”

Mom shakes her head. “How do you feel about that?”

“Scared. I’m worried.”

“Do you think he’ll change his mind about the store?”

“No,” I answer honestly. “I’m afraid my resolve isn’t strong enough.” I peer down into the tea and back up at Mom. “He asked if I hate him. I told him the truth—it’s the opposite. And seeing him, being near him, I don’t want to still love him.”

“Funny thing about love…we don’t choose it. It chooses us.”

ChapterEighteen

Dax

After Kandace leaves the house, I sit on the back porch with the box of pictures. For hours, I stare at my daughter, as more and more questions come to mind.

How was Kandace’s pregnancy?

Was she sick?

Did her delivery go well?

Did she find out if she was having a boy or girl before Molly was born?

What was Molly like as a baby?

What was her first word?

How old was she when she rolled over, crawled, and walked?

The more questions that come to me, the more overwhelming five years becomes.

Five years.

It’s after ten o’clock when my phone rings.Dadis on the screen.

“Hi,” I answer.

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