“You know exactly what you’re doing,” Abby says, smiling.
Seeing her smile, it’s easy to forget the healing cuts along her skin.
Almost.
“Besides,” Abby adds lightly, “neither do I. That’s why we’ve been abusing Max’s talents.”
Max looks up from his phone and winks.
“Why did you hire two more people?” Spike asks. “Surely it doesn’t take four people to keep that place running.”
“No,” Abby says easily. “But I get more business in the evenings. I need someone at the desk for those last five hours. I’ll still be at the shop often, but I did a lot of thinking the past few days.”
She pauses, thoughtful.
“I need to stick to the creating part of the business. That’s where I’m happiest.”
I watch her from across the room.
Confident. Calm. Putting her life back together piece by piece.
And not once does she glance in my direction.
It’s killing me.
But she’s standing. She’s choosing herself. And if staying invisible is the price of keeping her happy…I’ll pay it.
For now.
“How are you doing, baby sister?” Spike asks.
“I’m fine,” she says with a smile that’s just a little too bright. “I’ve been having some bad dreams, but other than that, I’m okay.”
My pretty little liar.
“Abigail,” Spike growls.
She exhales. “Fine. I made an appointment with my therapist,” she admits. “I’m not completely myself yet, but I really am okay, Bubby.”
Her voice is steady. Convincing.
Too convincing.
And that’s how I know she’s still holding herself together with sheer will and duct tape.
“Alright, I’m heading home to work on this dress,” Abigail says. “Lila, if you need me at the shop, just call.”
She turns and walks out, doing everything in her power to look anywhere but where I’m standing.
“Idiot,” Spike mutters as he comes to stand beside me. “I should kick your ass for breaking my sister’s heart.”
I don’t argue. I deserve it.
“I told you this years ago,” he continues. “You have my full blessing to make my sister yours. I couldn’t find a better man for her. But you, being a fucking idiot, decided you knew what was best and pushed her away.”
He shakes his head, jaw tight.
“Now she won’t even look at you. Get your head out of your ass, Tank. Abby is standing on the edge right now. I’ve got a bad feeling this is your last chance to love her back.”
