Even if I have to get a hotel room.
Charlotte: I’m so sorry you’re going through this. If I can lend a hand or an ear, please let me know.
Jo: Thank you. I might take you up on that.
Yet another lie. She and Avery agreed that she shouldn’t spend time with his family.
As the message showed delivered, her phone buzzed, and her heart did a little dance.
Avery: Just checking in. You okay?
Buzz. Buzz.
Avery: What do you want for lunch? I know what I want.
Avery: In case you didn’t get the hint. I’m craving a certain little peach.
Jo laughed and rolled to her stomach.
Jo: I’m good. Not really hungry right now.
Should I or shouldn’t I?
Yep, going for it.
Jo: Maybe later I’ll be in the mood for a big salami.
Avery: I can help you with that.
Her peach was supposed to be air drying, not getting wetter.
Jo: I’m counting on it.
She scrolled to the next message.
Letty: Hey, I had a customer, Mrs. Rossi, ask if I knew anyone who made cannolis. Is that something you can do? If so…
Letty’s next text listed the client’s number. Ten minutes later, Jo had a new client and an order for four dozen cannolis for Friday afternoon. The day was looking up.
Her good mood didn’t last long as she read the multitude of messages from her family, but she only answered the last one from each.
Georgia: Are you still dating Mr. Money Bags or not? Are you bringing him to the wedding?
Jo: My RSVP is for 1.
Lydia: I can’t believe you accused Chase of ransacking your apartment. Are you trying to get him arrested so he can’t be at the wedding?
I’m fine by the way…bitch.
She typed out a long message to explain that she hadn’t accused Chase of anything, then deleted it.
Nothing I say will do any good.
Walt: Are you okay?
Jo sat up slowly and reread the text. Since when did he care if she was okay? If he did, he usually followed with a corresponding message, like “Then get it together.” or “Then there must be some explanation for accusing Chase.” She debated what to say for a few minutes before going with the same brief tone.
Jo: I’m good.
