Page 54 of Cry For You

Are you sure about this, Lace?”

“I don’t need to be sure about anything. We’re friends, going to eat dinner together.”

“You’re obviously out of practice—that’s called a date,” Shay says.

Ignoring her, I keep applying my makeup. “A date is just eating and talking.”

She snorts. “For some. Not for you and Landon.” She crosses her arms, leaning back against the bathroom sink in front of the mirror I’m using, thoroughly annoying me, making me nervous when I wasn’t before.

“Shay, please go away. You’re making me twitchy. Why can’t you do like Mom? Go upstairs with her and Jacob. When I leave, you can take him home with you, until mom picks him up in the morning from your place.”

“Speaking of, why isn’t she down here? Why am I the only voice of reason? This is her job. She’s the mom. You know things are bad when I’m the one who has to talk sense into you.”

“I know you’re not on board with us hanging out, but you’re being ridiculous. It’s just dinner.”

“It’s just dinner before you leave. He’s Landon.” She emphasizes his name like it has magical powers.

“I know who he is. I’m Lacey, in case you didn’t know. Nice to meet you, Shay.” I make light of her ridiculousness. I turn around to face her after fixing my lipstick.

“I’m worried about you. You guys have so much history. It’s painful. Do you want to dredge it all up? You’re fragile. And what about Jacob?”

Okay, I’ve had enough of this. I know she’s worried about me, but she’s making me feel like a girl, and one not capable of making her own decisions. This is the problem— sometimes she doesn’t see how far I’ve come, how much I’ve overcome, to be able to stand in front of her getting ready to go out on a date. Three years ago, I wouldn’t have been capable of attempting to face him. Not now. I’m stronger. The fact that Mom’s not down here to talk me out of this is proof. But Shay can’t see that.

“Shay, I’m respectfully asking you to butt out.” Her face drops, and her eyes open wider, which has me softening my tone to take the bite out of my words. “I know you care about me. I know you’re looking out for me because you don’t want me hurt, or Jacob. At some point, you’re going to half to loosen your hold and realize I’m not the same girl from six years ago. I’m stronger. It’s mostly because of you. And Mom. And me. I learned how to stand on my own and reclaim my life.”

She grabs my hand, pulling me into her arms for a hug I wholeheartedly return. “You’re my sister. I love you. I haven’t always been the best sister, but I’m trying,” she says in a sullen voice.

She’s always too hard on herself. She doesn’t realize how great she is. She’s been everything to me and Jacob. God, I wouldn’t have survived without her by my side. She was my touchstone, keeping me grounded amidst the turmoil. She was my shoulder to cry on when I needed it.

I hold her face in my hands. “You’re the best sister a girl could have, and the only one I want.” My voice slightly wavers, telling her the absolute truth. “Don’t you forget that. You helped save us, Jacob and me. You listened and stood up for us, when I couldn’t do it. I’m forever grateful for it and the way you love us.”

“You’re exaggerating now—that was all you and your strength.” She tries to laugh it off, turning the moment light, moving my hands away.

I don’t let her, though. “Thank you, Shay. But it’s time to let go, some.”

“You and Jacob—”

“I’m good. Jacob is great. He really likes Landon.”

“I noticed. But how does Landon feel about your son?”

“He cares about Jacob. He knows we come together. Jacob is the number one priority in my life. Always. If I even thought Landon had uncertain feelings toward him, I wouldn’t allow him into our lives for even a moment.”

“I know. I’m sorry I’m being unsupportive and negative. You have come a long way.” She sighs. “Be careful.”

“I will.” I smile at her, grateful for the acceptance and reluctant approval. “How do I look?”

“You look good. But you need a finishing touch.” She takes her gold bracelet off and puts it on me. “I like this peachy tulle tiered skirt. Goes great with the iridescent blouse. A departure from your regular style. It’s good.”

“Thanks.” I was worried maybe my top was too fitted. It’s been forever since I’ve dressed up like this to go out. Actual heels. I’m usually in mommy or work mode. Jeans, shirt, flats. “I bought these silver sandals this week for tonight.”

“They’re killer. I might borrow them.”

“Anytime.” I would love that. She has a closet full of black. She looks great in colors. “That’s the door. He’s here! How’s my makeup?”

“I’ll get it.” She brushes down my hair with her hands. “You can make an entrance. You look fabulous, little sis.”

“Don’t be rude, Shay.”

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