Page 79 of Wandering Souls

“Where’s Max?”

Stevie chuckled. “My husband is on father duties today. I’d say I’m child-free but,” she patted her baby bump, “that’s not entirely true.”

“What did you have in mind?”

“We thought we’d do a little shopping first. I need some new maternity wear for summer. What about you? Do you need anything in particular?”

Abi smiled. “Just some clothes. I really didn’t bring enough to last me until January.”

Stevie whooped and dropped her arm. “What are we waiting for, ladies? Let’s get to it.” She skipped over to the car and hopped in behind the wheel.

Penny chuckled. “You’ll have to excuse her. She’s excited.”

“I’ll just lock up.” Abi returned to the cottage, picked up her purse and phone and then secured the door.

Penny met her on the veranda. “Is everything okay, Abigail?”

The question stopped her. “Why do you ask?”

Stepping closer, Penny smoothed a hand over Abi’s hair and tucked it behind her ear. “You’re limping.”

Abi hadn’t noticed. “I’m okay. Really.”

Unconvinced, Penny took her by the shoulders. “Your father told me that you were injured. If there’s anything we can do, please ask.” The reminder of Penny’s medical qualifications was surprisingly comforting.

“I will. Thank you.”

Penny turned and took her hand. “We’re here for you, Abigail,” she said, as she led them down to the SUV. They climbed in and Stevie gunned the engine. Driving into town, they parked along Main Street. For a small town, Wills Crossing was home to two independent clothing stores who sourced their garments from local fabric makers and designers.

They spent the morning visiting both stores. Trying on several pairs of slacks, shorts, tops and jeans, Abi was sure she’d be buying many original designs. She enjoyed the time spent with Penny and Stevie though she became acutely aware of the attention both paid her.

On the one hand, it shooed away the loneliness but on the other, it came with a hint of claustrophobia. After so long without either relationship in her life, Abi didn’t know how to tell them it was okay to back off—a little.

As lunchtime neared, they ventured into the pub where Damien met them. Though it was mid-week, the bistro was fairly full with the lunch crowd and the noisy atmosphere offered them a semblance of privacy.

She watched Damien turn loving eyes onto Penny and saw the lingering hug he had for her. Jealousy bloomed in Abi’s chest, quite unexpectedly. She chided herself for the unnecessary envy. Of course, he loved Penny. She was his wife, just like he loved his daughter, who he embraced with affection.

Abi’s focus fell on the way he whispered in Stevie’s ear. The fondness on his face gave her the hope that perhaps, one day, he would feel the same way about her. It was a child’s wish, one she knew she’d probably destroy the minute she returned to base.

“Abigail,” he greeted her with a grin and open arms. She stepped into his space and was instantly swept up in the biggest of all bear hugs. It practically knocked her off her feet and pulled a giggle from her. “I’m sorry I haven’t been to see you,” he whispered at her ear. “I had some things to take care of.” He pulled back. His blue-gray eyes were full of anticipation. “But if you can make time for me, I have something to show you.”

That had her interest. “Really?”

He crushed her against his chest with another hug. “Oh, sweetheart, you’re my daughter. Will you indulge a sentimental old man?”

Abi hugged him back, tears prickling at her eyes. Who was the sentimental one?

“Sit next to me?” He offered his elbow and waited until she linked her arm with his before he led them to a table.

He held out a chair for her, and took the one beside. Stevie sat opposite her while Penny faced her husband. Abi wondered how they looked to anyone who knew them. She was practically a stranger in their midst but no one acted that way. The small talk around the table was so down to earth, she couldn’t help but relax, and their inclusion of her seemed genuine.

“I heard you met with the new physio.” Stevie raised an eyebrow. “Is she as good as they say?”

Abi shrugged. “Only time will tell, I guess. I’d rather not have a leg full of metal, but if she can help, I’ll be thankful.”

Reaching across the table, Stevie took her hand. “You look worried, Abigail. What’s wrong?”

All eyes turned to her. The spotlight had never been so bright. “I guess I just want to be normal again.”

---