The Resurrection of Wildflowers (Wildflower #2)(5)

I know Seda is in great hands with Caleb, but I hate being away from my little girl. I didn’t want her to be around my mom while she’s dying. Death is inevitable, but no child should see someone they love disintegrate right before their eyes. It’s not that I won’t let her see my mom at all, but I don’t want her staying here around this twenty-four-seven. Besides, she has school and she’s currently enrolled in Boston. I wasn’t going to yank her out with only a few weeks left of the school year.

“Awesome, I’ll let her know. She’s a great person and a wonderful nurse so you don’t need to worry. Mom will be in great hands.”

That’s Georgia—she might be a bit of a wild card, but she’s always taking care of us.

“I love you,” I tell her.

“Aw, I love you, too. And I’m so happy you’re back for however long as that is.”

“Thanks. It’s good to be back.”

And surprisingly, it’s not even a lie.





CHAPTER 4





SALEM





Driving down to the local grocery store, I park and hesitate before going inside. The fridge at home isn’t well-stocked and I want to get some things for meals, but I’m dreading this trip because I’m bound to run into someone I know, and small towns love drama. Me returning to town after my divorce—that’s huge news for them.

I made a list before leaving the house, so that once I get inside, I won’t need to think over what I might need for cooking meals.

Regardless, I can only go so fast.

Grabbing my purse, I hop out of my SUV and scurry into the store with my head ducked low. Swiping a cart, I make my way to the produce section. If anyone’s watching me, I’m sure they’re amused with how fast I move. But the quicker I go, the sooner I’ll be out of here, and the less chance there is of someone interrupting.

I make it all the way to the frozen section where I’m looking at the ice cream when someone says my name.

“Thelma,” I smile, and it’s genuine—even if she is a nosy busybody. “How are you? And you too Cynthia. It’s good to see you guys. And together.”

Thelma shrugs, leaning over to kiss Cynthia’s cheek. “We’re too old to stay in the closet anymore. You’re back in town for your mother?” I nod. “It’s just awful. She’s so young—well, young to someone my age, you see, and—”

“I’m actually finishing up shopping and heading back to her so—” I quickly reach inside and grab a random tub of ice cream. “I’ll just be going.”

“Have you seen that man of yours yet?”

I cock my head to the side. “Who?” My heart thunders. I know exactly who she’s talking about.

“Don’t play coy with me, girl,” she snaps a finger, eyes twinkling. “You know exactly who I’m talking about.”

“No, I haven’t.”

“Huh.” She clucks her tongue. “Interesting.”

I shrug. “He’s moved on.” It’s been six years, I don’t for a minute think he hasn’t.

She laughs like I’ve told the funniest joke she’s ever heard. “Oh, that’s a funny one, girl. That man…” She shakes her head. “He hasn’t moved on. I’m not sure you have either.” She looks me up and down. “If you had, you would’ve come back sooner.”

With that, her and Cynthia walk down the aisle away from me.

I look down at the ice cream I picked.

Peanut butter Oreo.

Gross.

I put it back and grab cookie dough.

Much better.





“Mom, I’m home,” I call out, bringing in the first load of groceries. I tried to get it all in one trip, then quickly realized that was next to impossible. “Are you hungry? I thought I’d make chicken sandwiches for dinner?”

I set everything down, poking my head around the corner. She turns her head weakly and yawns.

“I’m not that hungry.”

“What about ice cream?”

She wrinkles her nose, and I can tell the idea alone displeases her. “No.”

“That’s all right.” I refuse to be deterred. “Is there something, anything you’d like?”

She shakes her head, her gaze drifting to the front window.

It hurts knowing she’s slipping away second by second.

“If you change your mind, let me know.” I won’t push her on the matter right now. Maybe I’ll be lucky and get something in her a little bit later.

I finish bringing everything in, exhaling a sigh of relief when I manage to do it without bumping into Thayer. I know it’s not something I can avoid forever, but I’m going to try for as long as I can. That’s the wimpy way out, but when it comes to him, I’ve never claimed to be strong.

I put the groceries away and start dinner, making some for my mom too so there’s something to eat if she gets hungry.

“Should we watch a movie?” I ask, sitting down on the couch with my plate.

“I was wondering…” She starts, clearing her dry throat. I immediately hop up and hold out her water for her to sip. “Would you read a book to me? There’s one I’ve been wanting to read, but—”