“I hope so. It would make things infinitely easier. Usually, kids have to apply and send in a portfolio if their focus is art or take a placement test if it’s for math or science.”
“I’m really good at math,” Olivia said. “I took pre-algebra at my school in Kentucky.”
“Really?”
“Yeah. The guidance counselor was good. She had the school test me and put me in the advanced class.”
“I’ll send her an email later today to get your records.”
“You hoo! Anyone home?” Abby’s mom called from the front door.
“We’re in the kitchen, Mom.”
Her mom came in and kissed her on the cheek. “Hey, Hon.”
“Hey, Mom.”
Her mom turned to Olivia. “You must be Olivia.”
“Yes, ma’am.” Olivia wrung her hands. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“None of that ma’am stuff. You call me Maw Maw, just like Will. Come here.” She pulled Olivia into the tight hug Abby had wanted to give her and kissed her head.
Olivia froze for a moment, then wrapped her arms tight around Sue’s waist. And cried.
“Jesus. I can’t imagine what that poor girl has gone through,” her mom said softly.
They trailed behind Olivia and Will as Will dragged Olivia to his favorite aquarium exhibits.
“She doesn’t have any other family?”
Abby shook her head. “Just Tony.”
Her mom glanced at her. “And there’s no chance…?”
She inhaled and stared blankly at the tank in front of them. It was something she and the social worker had talked about. “Tony signed away his rights. The social worker is going to try reaching out on the off chance he’ll change his mind. But I don’t think he will. If forced, I think he’d turn her over to the State.”
“What did the lawyer…Margaret…say?
“Magda. She said say nothing to no one,” Abby said.
“But?” her mom prompted.
“But, Erin, the social worker, thinks I should try to reach out to him. That I might be able to talk him into taking Olivia.”
“And?” her mom prompted.
“Can I admit something ugly?” Abby asked.
“About Olivia?”
“Kind of. I’m worried he’s going to say yes. And if he says yes to Olivia, he’s going to want access to Will.”
“That would not be great,” her mom said.
“I don’t want him in our lives. Even if he doesn’t want anything to do with Will, I’m not going to wash my hands of Olivia and send her off with him. But should I try talking to him?” She looked at her mom. “Am I being selfish by not reaching out to him? For Olivia’s sake?”
“Do you think it will make a difference?”
