“That’s where I’m at.”
“Yeah?” Joy lights her voice, and I smile automatically.
There’s something about Val that always puts me in a better mood. And with the throbbing pain in my head, I could stand for some good news. This headache has been plaguing me the last few days, and no amount of pain meds will knock it out.
“Will you come up to my room? It’s five-twenty.”
“Sure. Give me a few minutes.”
She can have all the time she needs. I’m not sure why she decided to come to Jersey instead of staying in DC, but I’m thankful. Last night I finished unpacking, so nothing should be out of place.
Soon a knock sounds at the door, and I slide my palms against my Warriors sweats to get rid of the nerves that have suddenly appeared. I pull the door handle toward me, and a waft of Val’s perfume greets me. It’s all I can do to prevent my eyes from closing on an inhale.
“Hey, stranger,” she says.
“Long time no see.” I step back to motion her in, aiming for a calm façade.
“What can I say? I couldn’t stay away.”
The door closes, and I listen for clues. She doesn’t sound upset. She actually sounds ...happy?
“Everything okay?”
“Yes? No? I don’t know.” She huffs out a laugh. “Let’s talk on the couch.”
I do as she asks, and she interlaces our fingers.
“What’s going on, Val? I’m hoping this visit is a good one.”Please let it be agood one.The thought actually feels more prayer than plea, and my body jolts in surprise. Maybe Javier is right about it becoming easier.
“It really is. I came up here because I felt like we had unfinished business.”
“Is this a breakup?” I arch a brow. “Did your sister demand that?”
“No!” A breath of air escapes her. “She’s not happy about us, but that’s neither here nor there. I decided what she wants is insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I like you, and that’s what matters.”
Music to my ears. The feeling rising in my chest is better than any championship I could ever win.
I untwine our fingers and wrap an arm around Val. “What happened with Jackie?”
She gives me the rundown of their discussion, and I wince. I’m not sure why Jackie decided to portray me as the villain. Is she hurting from something else and not a mere breakup, or is she that much of a diva? I pose the question to Val.
“I’ve thought about it and prayed about it. Unfortunately, she never really handled our parents’ divorce well. Dad and Mom placated her at every turn instead of disciplining her, and now she’sthatspoiled. Fran has always said so, but I thought it was sibling rivalry. But after seeing Mom try to appease Jackie yesterday, I’m beginning to see how differently they treat her. But regardless of how she’s been acting, I’ll be there for her if she ever offers an olive branch.”
“You’re a great sister, Val.” I squeeze her tightly, nuzzling my nose in her hair. “I’m glad you’re here.”
“Me too,” she whispers.
“Unfortunately, I have bad news about our box seats.”
“What’s that?”
“Morgan asked me to schmooze, so we’ll have a donor sitting with us. I hope you know I’d rather be focusing all of my attention on you.”
“It’s okay. At least we’ll be together.”
She rests her head against my chest. Holding her feels so right. I hope this is only the beginning for us. After a few minutes of silence, I speak.
“You going to tell me why you came? Not that I’m not excited.”
