“Hmm…”
“What?” Quinn asked, glancing at Jane sideways.
“Well, I couldn’t ever imagine Riley as a mother, but she’s actually really good with kids. Mindy loves her. Don’t you Mindy?”
“Yes. She got me a pool.” Mindy smiled widely as she held up her fruit salad that looked like it had been pre-digested. “Can I take this to Aunt Riley now, Mum? I want to be a nurse like you.”
70
RILEY
Walking out into the yard, Riley’s steps were steadier, a testament to her growing strength. The world had beckoned her, a symphony of birdsong and the touch of a gentle breeze through her bedroom window drawing her outside. Her heart was beating with vigor, and the weight of the past few days slowly lifted, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose. With each step, she embraced life, vowing to savor every beat, every breath, forever grateful for everything she had. She’d needed her three days in bed; her recovery was much slower this time, but now she was sick of staring at her iPad, the TV, and the ceiling.
Taking in a deep breath, she raised her face skyward. Wisps of cotton-like clouds floated lazily, casting shadows over the lawn. One plump and billowy cloud resembled a lion, its mane floating behind him, and nearby, a cluster of smaller clouds danced together in a ballet against the blue backdrop. The air carried the zesty tang of newly sprouted leaves, and there was a distant aroma of a woodfire coming from a neighboring house. A subtle tingle crossed her flesh as if the sunbeams were caressing her. Riley soaked up the day. Her senses felt stronger, or perhaps she was just more mindful now.
Turning the corner, her lips curled into a smile when she saw Quinn by the water’s edge. She was drinking coffee and reading a newspaper. As if sensing her presence, Quinn looked up. Warmth blossomed in Riley’s chest as their eyes met, and captivated by the beauty of the simple morning scene, she took her in.
“Good morning, beautiful,” Quinn said, patting the seat next to her. “You’re up.”
“I’ve had enough of my bed. It’s not the same when you’re not in it.”
Quinn kissed her cheek and put an arm around her. “I heard Mindy running around early this morning, and Jane was still in bed. I didn’t want her to wake you, so I took her outside.” She pointed at her barge, where Mindy was sitting behind the wheel. “It’s Captain Mindy now, by the way.”
Riley laughed. “Let’s hope she doesn’t sail away.”
“It’s safe. I’m keeping an eye on her. She promised to stay inside and shout out of the window when she wants to come off.” Quinn studied Riley. “How are you feeling? Be honest.”
“Actually, I feel really good.” Riley tilted her head and brushed her lips against Quinn’s. “Let’s wait and see what they say during my checkup next week, but I’m not tired or dizzy anymore.”
“That’s great, but make sure you don’t take on too much. I’m keeping an eye on you.”
“You’re sweet.” Riley scrunched her nose and smiled. “Is Jane still sleeping?”
“I think so.”
“Hmm. She never sleeps in.” Riley frowned as her eyes darted to the driveway. “Her rental car is gone.”
“Oh!” Quinn shrugged. “She must have gone out to get groceries or something.”
“But she would have told you, right?” From the way she avoided her gaze, Riley had a feeling there was something she wasn’t telling her. “Quinn? Look at me, Quinn.” She put a hand on her arm. “Where is Jane?”
At that moment, they heard the front gates open, and Jane’s car turned up the driveway. “There she is. See? Everything’s fine.” Quinn gestured to the car. “She brought a guest. Why don’t you go and see them? I’ll get Mindy from the barge.”
“What?” Riley narrowed her eyes as she started walking toward the car. Jane came out first and opened the passenger’s door.
“Dad?”
Riley stopped for a moment and swallowed hard. He looked so much better than last time she’d seen him; much stronger, a little tanned, and he straightened himself and beamed when he spotted her.
“Riley!” He waved at her and spread his arms. “Come here.”
Riley did something she never thought she’d do. She ran up to him, flung her arms around his neck, and burst into tears. “Dad, you’re here.”
“Yes, I’m here, my girl.”
“I’m so sorry,” she said through sniffs, clutching him. “I haven’t been there for you, and I’m so, so sorry.”
“From what I’ve heard, you’ve had some rough times yourself.” He stepped back and cleared his throat. “You should have told me, kiddo. Jane called me, so I had to come. She just picked me up from the airport.”
