“Sophie.” The firmness in Denver’s tone shocked her, causing her to drop the board. It bounced once and clattered against the pavement but Sophie didn’t dare pick it up. “What happened?”
It was pointless to hide any of it from Denver. He always knew when something was wrong. “I turned down the house today.” Saying it out loud hurt, and sadness shook her to the core. She fought against the tears that threatened. This battle was getting old. “Blake’s lawyers are as MIA as he is. Unless I want to sue him, it’s pretty much hopeless. Caroline won’t get her own room. I won’t get my own bed. It’s over.”
Denver moved from behind the table saw and drew her into his arms. It was the moment of weakness that allowed her to fall into the safety of his embrace and accept the comfort he offered. “Everything’s going to be okay, Soph. I promise it is.”
“I don’t know, Denver.” She wanted so badly to cry. To let out all the pent-up fears and emotions that had been plaguing her all week. But the roar of an approaching engine caused Sophie to wriggle out of his embrace lest anyone see them and mistake the situation.
“That’ll be more parade float help,” Denver said with a nod at the car snaking up the driveway. He reached for Sophie’s hand and gave it a squeeze until she looked back at him. “I’m here for you, no matter what.”
“You don’t have to worry—”
“Yes, I do. You’re my best friend, Soph.”
Best friend. She shimmied her gloved hand free from his and crouched to hide her reddened cheeks, acting as if all that was going on was her picking up the board she dropped. For a moment, she’d forgotten about their friendship. She’d given into weakness and risked the very thing she was trying so desperately to protect.No more, Sophie.
“Think he can help you with this?” Sophie nodded at the teenager who waved at them as he got out of his car. “I’m going to see if they need help inside.” Sophie scurried off before Denver could talk her into staying.
