“You only wanted what was best for him,” I say.
She nods. “He’s our only child…”
My chest tightens at her words. I’m an only child too, but my mother is nothing like Susan, who only has her son’s best interests at heart. “He’s lucky to have you.”
She gives a small smile. “It’s hard to let go of the ones you love. Selfishly, you just want to wrap them in cotton wool and keep them safe, but there’s a whole wide world out there.”
“That’s true, but there’s so much here too, Susan. Collier’s Creek will always be home to Felix.”
“Yes, I can see that he belongs here. Thank you for supporting him in his decision.”
“I didn’t do anything. He made up his own mind.”
“You allowed him to make his own choices and for that, I’m grateful.” She pauses and lowers her eyes for a moment before raising them to meet mine. “To be honest, I was worried you’d influence him, encourage him to follow you to… to wherever you’re going next. You’ve seen more of the world.”
“I agree. I’m at a different stage in my life. I’m older but—”
She grabs hold of my arm. “Your age has nothing to do with it, Kit. The age difference doesn’t matter to me. I can see how much you mean to Felix, and I was worried Felix would put you first before himself.”
“Felix is a strong man. He puts other people first, but he knows what he wants.”
Susan nods. “And you helped give him the confidence to grab his future with both hands.”
“There’s no doubt in my mind that Felix can achieve whatever he puts his mind to, and if that’s choosing the cabins and the community here, then I’m happy for him.” Inwardly I know that’s not quite true—while I’m happy for Felix, I’m only truly happy if I’m here by his side.
“I can see why my son is so enamored.” Susan’s face softens, her brown eyes that are so similar to Felix’s crinkling at the corners. “Do you love my boy?”
“Yes,” I respond instantly.
“Then that’s all I need to know.”
She pulls me into a hug before straightening. She sniffs, her eyes glistening, as she adjusts her apron. “Now, the turkey’s ready. Can you give me a hand to get it out of the oven?”
Christmasdinnerisfestiveand relaxed. There are just the five of us, but enough food to ensure there will be leftovers for days. The conversation flows easily and I’m enthralled watching Felix throughout the meal. His eyes shine with happiness, and the smile doesn’t leave his face.
Susan and Brian are sitting next to each other. They share fleeting touches and jokes, gently teasing each other in a way that makes it clear how much love there is between them. It’s something I want. Every now and then, Susan meets my gaze with a knowing look, as if she can read my thoughts.
Uncle Shawn isn’t left out. I can see the family making every effort to keep his spirits up, and he’s surprisingly resilient. He shares a story about his late wife, Maureen, and the moment is bittersweet.
When the conversation turns to the cabin development, the mood changes, brightening again. Everyone is excited by the prospect of revamping the business and hang on every word Felix says. When Uncle Shawn asks Felix some questions, my chest swells with pride. I know how much research he’s done and how much time he’s spent on business plans, and it’s great to see his expertise recognized.
“What do you think, Kit?” Brian asks, turning to me. “You’ve had firsthand experience staying in the cabins.”
“The ideas for the upgrades are perfect. A little more modern and comfortable but still in keeping with the rustic location,” I say, but to be honest, my stay has been perfect, faulty electrics and all. I wouldn’t change any of it.
Felix leans closer, his voice low and filled with warmth. “I’m so glad you’re here, Kit. Having your input means a lot to us.”
My chest warms and I smile. I’m glad I’m here too.
“Of course, we’ll have to temporarily close the cabins for a couple of months during renovations,” Brian says.
“I guess that means you’re evicting me then,” I joke.
The others laugh, but when my gaze turns to Felix, he’s drained of color, mouth drawn in a tight line.
“It’s time I find somewhere else to live anyway,” I say, placing a hand on his thigh. “I need a proper study and more space for all my stuff.”
Felix’s eyes widen, and I wonder if he’s realizing that I’m planning on sticking around. “Your stuff?”
