I’m the daughter of two people who made terrible choices.
That doesn’t define me. If anything, it has helped me see that I can do better.
“I didn’t sleep much last night,” I clarify my previous comment so Leanna doesn’t start asking about Liam.
“All the sugar in this will help.” She points at the cupcake. “I ate mine on the way to work.”
I manage a small laugh. “It was your breakfast?”
“I had breakfast early.” She rubs her stomach. “The cupcake was for the little one in here.”
I drop my gaze to the front of her jeans. “You’re pregnant?”
“It’s so early.” She lets out a sigh. “I did the test at home this morning, so I’m still in the danger zone, but fingers crossed that next summer, I’ll be a mom again.”
I round the table to hug her. “I’m happy for you and Al.”
She breaks the embrace to look into my eyes. “You’ll get this too one day, Athena. The right guy will stroll through that door and sweep you off your feet when you least expect it.”
That already happened.
I was swept away. I fell in love, and then he disappeared.
Hours later,I finally lock the door for the day.
It was busier than usual. Leanna stayed an extra hour to help me fulfill all the orders that arrived before delivery cut-off. I helped Al load them into the back of his SUV before I gave them both a hug and sent them on their way.
I suck in a deep breath knowing that I am less than thirty minutes away from a bubble bath.
I set off to shut off the lights when a light knock at the door stops me in place.
Fear buckles through me.
I want it to be Liam as much as I don’t want it to be.
I don’t even know what I’d say to him at this point.
Another knock turns me around because I can’t ignore it.
The man standing on the other side of the door is tall with black hair.
I inch closer and point at my watch, signaling to him that the store is closed for the day.
He points at the handle and tugs at it.
I shake my head and mouth the words, “we’re closed.”
His hand disappears inside his suit jacket, and for the briefest of moments, I wonder if he’s about to rob me.
Something gold flashes in the air, but it’s not a weapon.
It’s a police badge.
I take a step closer to the door.
He raps his fist against it harder. “Open the door.”
I do as he asks. I rush the rest of the distance to the door and flip the lock open.
