Page 93 of Love in the Storm

“Call who?”

“Your parents. I can tell when you’re thinking about them.”

A sigh rushed from her chest, but it didn’t ease the guilt. “I’m scared.”

He wrapped her hand in both of his and held it between them. “If they’re happy to hear from you and want a relationship, good. If not, then you still have us. I know we’re not your real family, but it’s as real as it can get without blood between us. You’re ours, and we love you.”

Lyric blinked through the moisture in her eyes. “You’re right. I should at least see if there’s a chance they can forgive me.”

He released her hands, and she picked up her phone. She could press a few buttons and be talking to her parents. It was a simple action, but actually doing it was daunting.

“You could invite them to dinner at my place. I know how to heat chicken noodle soup out of a can.”

She chuckled. “I can do it. I need to do it now or I’ll chicken out.”

Asa looked around. “You want me to give you some privacy?”

“No, I’d rather have you here beside me.”

He rested back into his seat. “Then I’ll be right here.”

Knowing Asa would be there no matter how the talk with her parents went gave her the courage to make the call.

Her breath hitched as she pressed the phone toher ear. No big deal. Just calling her estranged parents.

“Hello.”

Lyric gasped at the sound of her mom’s voice. She hadn’t heard it in years, but the tone was so familiar, it wrapped around her like a warm blanket.

“Mom? It’s Lyric.”

There was a slight pause, before her mom responded. “Hey. It’s been so long since I’ve heard from you.”

“That’s my fault. I’m so sorry it took me this long to call. I just…I just wanted you to know I miss you.”

“I miss you too.” Her mom’s voice was hushed, but the words rang with truth.

“Um, do you have time to catch up a little?”

“Of course. Tell me how you’re doing.”

That small acceptance was all it took to lower the walls. She told her mom about her jobs and how she met Asa. She went on and on about Jacob, all too happy to share about the people she loved.

When she turned the conversation to her mom, the news was just as good. Her dad retired and loved spending time with Melody’s kids. They had another grandkid on the way, and her mom was busy planning a baby shower.

Lyric glanced at the clock on the wall and gasped. “Oh, Mom, I’m so sorry to cut you off, but I need to leave to pick Jacob up from school.”

“It was great to hear from you. I’ve missed you so much. Your dad has too.”

“Can I call you again?” Lyric asked.

“Of course. Maybe your dad will be here next time.”

“Thanks. I love you.”

She blurted the words before thinking, and after a moment of panic, all the anxiety eased. She did love her mom. Why wouldn’t she say it?

“I love you too. I’m so glad you called.”

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