“Colly!” Steve Munsel shouts from his spot in front of the television. He jumps out of the chair and makes a beeline for her. He’s got her wrapped up tight. “So glad you could make it.”
“Me, too, Dad.”
“Son.” He faces me. “Whatcha got there?”
“A charcuterie board, Dad.”
Thank goodness she answered that for me. I still can’t pronounce it.
“Ooh. I love those.” Sonia makes her way over to me. Up on her tiptoes, she attempts to take a peek at the board. My arms have started shaking due to the weight of the thing.
“Let me set it down, then you can take a look.”
“Over here.” Sonia points to the large dining table that is currently set with fancy china. Sonia starts to push the dishes out of the way, which forces Candy into action.
“Mom. No,” she snaps. “I set that a certain way.” She glares at Colette. “With sixteen place settings.”
“Oh, pish posh.” Sonia keeps moving things around. “I need to get a look at that thing.” She’s able to move enough of the dishes and silverware for me to set down the board. Taking the wrap off the top, I step back as one by one, every Munsel comes forward to look. “Wow.” Steve says with awe. “That looks delicious.”
“Dad, we asked them to be sure to use only low-sodium cheeses and dips. Also, the sausage is turkey sausage so it’s lower in fat. They added extra fruit and veggies for you, too.”
“That’s so sweet, honey.” Sonia moves closer and wraps her arm over Colette’s shoulder. “That’s so thoughtful.”
If I had to guess, I’d say she was getting a little teary eyed.
“And, Candy, I asked them to add blue-cheese-stuffed olives, pistachio nuts, and cucumber sandwiches.” According to Colette, those are Candy’s three favorite foods.
Sonia smiles. “Well, that’s sweet.” Looking over at Candy, Sonia asks, “Isn’t it nice, Candy?”
Candy stares down at the board. The rest of the group remains silent. When she looks up, she’s got tears in her eyes. Looking over at Colette, she wipes her cheek. “I love those olives.”
“I know.”
“Everyone hates them but me.”
“I know.” Colette responds again.
“These assholes will hate the fact the green olives are touching the rest of the food.”
“I know.” And suddenly, Candy launches herself at Colette, her arms wrap around her little sister in a hug that looks, well, painful. “I love you so much, Candy. I’m so sorry.”
The two women are bawling now.
If it weren’t way overdue, I’d say it was awkward, but since it is overdue, nobody is complaining. Or moving. Or speaking.
“I love you more, Colette. So much. I’m sorry.”
“No. I’m sorry. I’ve been a self-centered bitch.”
“True.” Candy says, then laughs. “I’m so glad you showed up today.”
“Only because I brought you your olives.”
“True.”
And the pair laugh never having stopped the hug of the century.
Chapter Thirty-Seven
