Tonight needs to go better than the last time I saw Fiona. I set my glass down on the arm of the chair and stare up at the ceiling. Right this moment, I hate having a photographic memory more than anything else in the world.
The hurt look on her face when I pulled away keeps flashing before my eyes like a constant reminder of my stupidity.
How could I have done that?
Why?
Why?
Why?
All I needed to do was accept the comfort she was offering. Tonight might be going differently if I did. Now I need to figure out how to apologize while not scaring her off. And do all of it in a house full of nosy people who don’t believe in privacy or personal space.
That’s if she even shows up.
Hope said she was, but…
Why did I do that?
“Dad, Fiona’s here.”
She didn’t hide from me!!!! “Hey. Hope said you were coming. Hi, Daria.”
Daria gives a little wave, while Fiona’s face stays impassive. She’s still hurt.
Of course, she’s hurt. You need to fix this.
“Stay right here. I have some people I want you to meet. I’ll be right back.” Hope runs off. She had better not be going to get Gabe, or I will lose my mind.
Say something.
Say anything to break the ice and stop the awkward staring.
“I’m going to look at the books,”a computer voice says from Daria’s hands.
Fiona smiles. “That didn’t take long. Don’t get lost.”
Why did Daria need a tablet to talk?
It would be rude to ask, but also not knowing what’s going on with Fiona’s sister feels wrong. I should know everything about her.
Especially the important stuff.
You’re standing there staring. Say something.
Say anything. “How were the boys?” That was stupid. You were supposed to apologize while we’re still semi-alone.
“They were fine. Half the girls who work at the bakery are in love with them. The other half are afraid of them.”
“Those boys would never hurt a woman.” They’re too afraid of their mother and sister, even though I’d like to think they respect women overall. “I’m so glad you came today.”
Fiona’s brow wrinkles.
Does she not believe me?
What do I say?
Fiona steps in closer and whispers, “Did you find out if she was…”
