Page 47 of Snowed in with the Grump

“Of course not. But you're in charge of handling Sarah from now on.”

I laugh and smack his chest playfully, then sober. “I'm sorry about earlier, with the shoes and money stuff. I know Sarah thinks I'm irresponsible.”

Carter shakes his head. His voice is kind but matter-of-fact. “You're not irresponsible, Ava. You're extremely generous, but we can work on it together if you want to learn how to manage your money better.”

I snuggle into the sanctuary of his embrace. “I'd like that.”

“You need a new car,” Carter says without a hint of irony.

I laugh. His timing is spectacular.

“Why don't we talk to Sarah now?” he asks.

I take a deep, bracing breath and nod. “Might as well rip off the Band-Aid.”

As much as I want to stay wrapped up in Carter forever, I need to face Sarah and clear the air.

With an encouraging kiss from Carter, we walk to the living room. Laughter floats from within, but I hover in the doorway, heart pounding.

Sarah looks up from the board game she's playing with Ivy and Matt, surprise flashing across her face.

“Can we talk?” I ask gently.

After a tense beat, Sarah nods.

The others quickly make excuses about getting more snacks, giving us privacy. Carter squeezes my hand supportively before quietly excusing himself.

I perch on the edge of the couch beside Sarah, hands clasped to hide their trembling. Where do I even begin?

“I'm sorry,” I blurt.

Sarah's eyes widen. She wasn't expecting an apology. Her expression softens.

She opens her mouth, but I hold up a hand.

“Please, let me finish.” I take a deep breath. “I can be impulsive sometimes. But your brother...he makes me want to be better. To plan and make smart choices. Because I want a future with him.”

I watch Sarah closely for her reaction now my cards are on the table.

Her eyes shimmer. “You love him, don't you?”

“With all my heart,” I vow.

“I'm so sorry for being harsh. Carter's been through so much. I was scared because I didn't want him getting hurt.”

“Believe me, that's the last thing I want to do.”

Sarah searches my face. “I think part of me always knew you had a crush on Carter, but I didn't realize how deep your feelings went.”

“I didn't believe he'd ever have feelings for me. I was afraid of losing you, so I kept quiet.”

“I'm sorry I doubted you. I was scared, but it's no excuse for how I acted.”

Impulsively, I squeeze her hand. “You want what's best for Carter. For both of us.”

Sarah pulls me into a hug. “I don't want to lose you either.”

I cling to her, blinking back tears. “You could never lose me. Now we can be real sisters.”

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