“What about your job?”
The silence on the end of the phone told Paris the answer to her question. “How long have you been out of work?”
“I don’t know why you always think the worst of me. I’m still working for Callagher and Mitchem, although sometimes I wonder why I bother. They never listen to any of my ideas for improving our processes. But, as Jerry says, my salary pays the bills.”
Considering Jerry’s only income came from the casino circuit, Paris figured they needed some kind of regular income.
“I was thinking of flying to Sapphire Bay. Jerry has a couple of weeks off before his next tournament. We could be there for the opening of the store and meet your friends.”
Paris’ heart plummeted. “It’s not a good time. I’m really busy.”
“I could help. It would be just like old times.”
Remembering those times made Paris’ stomach churn. “It’s better if you stay home. Your boss will appreciate you coming back to work after you’ve been away.”
“He doesn’t appreciate anything I do.”
As her mom told her what was happening at work, Paris glanced at Richard. He was kneeling on the ground, screwing another frame together. Anyone listening to the one-sided conversation would wonder what was going on. Most people enjoyed talking to their mom but, for her, it was a minefield.
“I have to go, Mom. Thanks for calling.”
“Don’t you want to hear about Jerry’s birthday? We had such a good time. Cynthia and Dave flew down from Seattle and spent the weekend with us.”
Paris had heard all about the forty-eight-hour celebration that had ended in the fountain outside the Bellagio Resort. Her mom was lucky she hadn’t drowned. “Aunt Cynthia told me about it. I’ll call you next week.”
“But I really want to see you, darling. We never spend time together.”
“We’ll talk about it next week. Bye, Mom.” Before Donna could say anything, Paris ended the call. With trembling hands, she turned off her phone and left it on the table.
Richard placed some pieces of wood beside the frame she was making. “Are you all right?”
“I’m fine.” Taking a deep breath, she focused on what she was here to do. “After I’ve attached the corner braces, I’ll make the supports for the legs.” She picked up her drill, looked at Richard, and wished she hadn’t. There was an understanding in his eyes that made her heart ache.
Instead of asking more questions, he pointed to the wood he’d left on the floor. “I’ve cut the wood you’ll need for the bottom of the frames.”
“Thanks.” It wasn’t until she was halfway through attaching the first corner brace that she realized there were tears in her eyes. So much for being a confident, mature adult. Beneath her colorful clothes and forced smile was a scared ten-year-old, hoping her mom didn’t suddenly arrive and show everyone why Paris never spoke about her.
Chapter 10
Later that week, Paris looked around the meeting room at The Welcome Center. Nine eager students were creating gorgeous wreaths.
Jack must have been planning what he’d make since their last class. The drawing he’d brought with him was far more complicated than the other designs she’d seen. “Good job, Jack. I like the way you’re using the foam balls.”
“The blue one is earth and the silver one is the moon. It’s sparkly because it’s surrounded by stars.”
Nora, Jack’s friend, looked up from the pink and purple wreath she was making. “What’s your favorite star?”
“Sirius ’cos it’s the brightest one in the sky.”
“How come you know lots about the stars and planets?” Charlie, Jack’s other friend, asked.
“When I lived with Grandma, she told me all kinds of things about them.”
“My grandma died,” Nora said sadly.
“You can spend time with mine, if you like.” Jack leaned forward and whispered across the table. “She’s coming to visit as soon as we move into our new house.”
That set off a whole new set of questions about Jack’s house. Before the children became too distracted, Paris checked the time. “Your parents will be here in ten minutes and it would be good to have finished your wreaths. Does anyone need more glitter?”
