Page 11 of When Cardinals Appear

“Um, I’m fine. It’s been a while.”

“I-I know,” I stammered. “I’m sorry about that. Things with school—well, you know how it is.”

“Sure,” Toccara said, though she didn’t sound very convinced. “So, what’s up?”

“I wanted to tell you I’m back in town.” I paced the sidewalk in front of the mechanic’s shop. “I’m home to settle my mom’s affairs. And, um...” There’s really no great way to do this. “Unfortunately, I had a bit of an accident with my mom’s car this morning. It’s in the shop. I was wondering if you might be able to come pick me up.”

Another heavy silence. I crossed my fingers as I waited. I wished I had been more responsive to my friends over the last six months. Then I wouldn’t be in such an awkward predicament.

“I’d love to help you out, Lanie, but I’m a bit tied up at the moment.”

I rested my back against the wall and slid down. The sidewalk was cold and a little damp. I took a deep breath and forced a cheery tone. “No worries. I understand. Maybe we can catch up while I’m home.”

“I’d love that!” Toccara said, and my chest tightened at how sincere she sounded. Maybe she would find a way to forgive me for being a terrible friend.

“Great! Well, check your schedule and let me know when you’re free.”

“Will do. Welcome home, Lanie.”

I ended the call. There was only one person left I felt comfortable calling. I dialed Trudy Jackson, but I didn’t hold out much hope. Trudy was the only one of my friends who had taken the plunge and gotten married. I vaguely recalled receiving a birth announcement a few months ago.

“Lanie? Oh my goodness, girl, how are you?”

That was promising. “I’m home.”

“You are? For good?”

“Uh, not exactly. I’ve got to take care of some things, like my mom’s house, but probably for at least a couple of months. How are you?”

“I’m doing well. My little Davey is almost six months old now.”

“Wow! I can’t believe I haven’t met him yet.”

“You’ll just have to come on by,” Trudy said.

“About that...” I crossed my fingers again. “My mom’s car is in the shop, and I’m kind of stranded. Any chance you might have a moment to come pick me up?”

“Girl, I wish I could, but Davey just went down for his nap, and I’ve got no one to watch him.”

“Right.” I closed my eyes as I realized I was stuck there for at least the foreseeable future.

“Wait, are you at Sanders’s Auto?”

“Yeah, why?”

Trudy chuckled. “How awkward was that?”

“You have no idea,” I murmured.

“I’m surprised Nate couldn’t give you a ride home.”

“I, uh, didn’t ask him.”

“Guess I can’t blame you there.” Trudy laughed. “Well, if you’re still there in another hour or so, feel free to call me back. I can come after Davey wakes up.”

Dear Lord, I hope I’m not here for that long. “Thanks, Trudy. I’d love to see you while I’m home.”

“Definitely! You’ve gotta fill me in on what’s been going on. Call me soon, okay?”

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