“Exactly.”She takes her camera back with a satisfied sigh.“Well, good luck getting one.”
“Thanks, I’ll need it.”I stretch, glancing at my watch.“So where are you going for Thanksgiving?”
She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.“Nell’s parents.”
I grin knowingly.“Ah.So, the pie is a good kind of—”
“Exactly.”She points at me, eyes gleaming.“Gotta seem like the perfect daughter-in-law, and nothing says,I belong in this familylike bringing the best pie in town.”
“You’ve got it all figured out.”
“Damn right.”
I push back from the table, finishing the last sip of my coffee.“Alright.After work today, I’ll head to Keith’s house.Try to catch Adrian there.”I’m not sure if I’m walking into a chance or a total waste of time.Still, I have to try.
“Good idea.”Violet gives me a thumbs-up.“And don’t forget the pie, Thursday.That might just be your golden ticket.”
I roll my eyes but can’t hide my grin.If Adrian’s as stubborn as I think he is, I’ll need all the help I can get.
Later that evening, after a long shift, I make my way over to Keith’s house.
The neighborhood is quiet, and there’s a faint scent of wood smoke from Keith’s place.I don’t see Adrian’s car out front, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t here.He could’ve parked around the back or maybe gotten a ride from someone at the hospital.Either way, I’m not turning around.
I hesitate for only a second before stepping onto the porch and knocking on the door.
A moment later, the door swings open, and Keith stands there, his warm smile as familiar as ever.He wears a checkered shirt and navy pants, just in from work.His practice badge still dangles from his pocket.In all the years I’ve known him, he’s had the same clothes.I’d love to give him a makeover, but I asked once, and he said no.
“Amelia.How are you?”
“I’m good, thanks.How are you?”
“Can’t complain.”His gaze flickers with curiosity.“What can I do for you?”
I nervously shift on my feet.“I was actually wondering if Dr.Pierce was around.”
Keith’s lips twitch, like he already knows the answer will disappoint me.“He’s still at work.Sorry, Amelia.”
I try not to let my disappointment show.“Oh.Do you know when he’ll be back?”
He shakes his head.“No idea.But you could always wait here.Have a cup of tea with me?I wouldn’t mind the company.”
I glance at my phone, seeing a text from Mom.I let her know earlier that I’d be late home.The thought of not being there makes me unsettled.My family relies on me, and I hate letting her down by not being there to help.But I need this interview.More money means I can stop juggling overdue notices.It also means filling her prescriptions without checking my bank balance twice.
I force a smile.“Sure.I’d love a cup of tea.”
Keith nods, stepping aside to let me in.His house is warm from the fire burning.As I follow him to the kitchen, I recognize the jazz tune.It’s something old and soothing.
He moves with ease, grabbing cups and turning on the kettle.“How’s your mom doing?”
I hesitate, fingers brushing the edge of the counter.“She’s… okay.”It’s not exactly a lie.Just the best version of reality that I can give.
Keith gives me a sad smile.“You’re a good daughter, you know that?”
Emotion clogs my throat.I’m not used to hearing things like that from anyone other than my mother.“Looking after her is just… what I do,” I say softly.“She’s always been there for me and my siblings.It’s the least I can do.”
He nods as he hands me my tea, then leads me out onto the back deck.The night air is cool but not cold, the light fading around us.
“So,” he says, settling into his chair.“What are you here to see Adrian for?”
