Page 19 of Accidentally in Bloom

Violet started sobbing, and Rose scooted her chair so she could lean Violet’s head on her shoulder.

“I’ve gotten letters with Dad’s name on them. Some have been in pink and yellow paper.” She hiccuped through her sobs. “I thought maybe they were a scam?” Violet peered up at Rose with a helpless vulnerability that gutted her.

Rose bit her cheek to keep from tearing up. She pushed Violet’s head on her shoulder and begged her body to keep her emotions together.

Gray’s eyes bored into hers, and she felt like grasping his hand from across the room; she was that desperate for a lifeline.

“We’ll get it figured out, Vi.” Lily patted Violet’s back and crouched down beside her.

That house meant everything to Violet. This was just like her father. Damn him. He’d had an “everything will work out” attitude her whole life, and who picked up the pieces behind him?

Her.

The oldest sister. Part family therapist, part cruise ship activities director, part mother, part friend.

What part was left over for herself?

Rose felt tears starting at the edge of her eyes, but she pushed aside her feelings.

She’d get back to them.

Eventually. Probably.

“We’ve got time, right?” She did the math in her head. The sale of the house, the greenhouse, and the flower shop could make a big dent.

Mrs. Maroo held up a finger. “The payment was already way past due, and taxes are soon, sweetie. Whatever you can send sooner rather than later will help.”

Rose took a deep breath and straightened up. Get down to business and deal with your feelings later.

Rose stood up and held out a hand. “Thank you, seriously. I’ll follow up in a few days once I’m able to process everything.”

“Oh, don’t be silly. I need hugs.” Mrs. Maroo scooted back, hobbled around her desk with surprising speed, and caught Violet and Lily both in a hug and then Gray. They filed out of the office, leaving Rose behind.

Rose glanced over her shoulder to make sure they were alone. “What’s the deal with Gray? Why did Dad put us together? It doesn’t make any sense.”

Mrs. Maroo nudged her with her elbow. “He’s not hard to look at, that’s for sure. And knows his way around a dance floor.” Mrs. Maroo sent her a wink. “He’s a good man, but be careful; he’s quite the charmer.”

Rose scoffed as she gathered her things. “I’m immune to whatever charm he thinks he has.”

“Give him a chance. Could be fun to work with him, especially if you catch him walking away long enough.” Mrs. Maroo bobbled her eyebrows, and Rose let a skeptical smile sneak through. “You'll figure something out, Rosie. I just know it. You let me know the second you need anything, okay?” Mrs. Maroo caught Rose in a fierce, bony hug, gave her an extra squeeze, and finally released her.

“Will do, thanks.” Rose threw her a wave and tossed on her sunglasses, mentally putting on her armor to deal with Gray. He was waiting outside the cottage for her.

Ugh, he was a nice view from behind. He’d worn his omnipresent leather jacket and dark designer jeans that hung perfectly on him.

Rose walked outside and nodded to Lily and Vi. “Why don’t you guys go grab a coffee? Gray and I need to talk.”

“And miss an epic fight? No way,” Lily snorted. Violet grabbed her arm and pulled her to Fox & Forrest.

Gray leaned against his bike and eyed her with a solemn face. “I didn’t know about any of this.” His voice was quiet and hinted at something she wanted to ignore. Something like kindness.

She rubbed a hand on her breastbone, willing away the Clydesdale-sized ball of anxiety sitting on her chest.

Why did it sound so good to be wrapped in his arms again? She wanted to bury her face against his chest—hell, anyone’s chest—and forget everything crumbling around her. If he could catch her from a car roof, maybe he could catch her in the freefall she was in right now.

“I’m just sorry you got roped into this. My father…” She shook her head. Not sure where to even start.

“Was one of the best friends I ever had. Despite the age difference, or maybe because of it.”

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