True words. Because what else could she do when what she wanted most was also what she feared most?
“Have you seen your mother yet?”
Maggie was grateful for the shift in topic. “She called yesterday but I didn’t pick up.”
“I’m surprised she wasn’t on your doorstep the minute you got home.”
“She’s giving me the silent treatment. She’s still angry because I wouldn’t date Dr. Derrick.” Pokey barked as he led Zoey on a merry chase.
“Is that back on the table now that you and Josh aren’t an item anymore?”
“I meant what I said. I can’t do a relationship right now—and somebody slap me if I ever agree to get involved with anyone my mom recommends.” Of course, her mom was bound to do just that, and Maggie’s refusal would cause more friction in their relationship. Not to mention manipulation, guilt trips, and passive aggression. She could hardly wait. The thought of it was like an anchor around her neck.
As much as she dreaded stirring up the pain with counseling, it was probably time—past time—to figure all this out.
Chapter 45
Almost two weeks passed without word from Maggie. Then on the Thursday before Labor Day weekend, after his morning tour, Josh checked his phone.
How are you?she’d texted.
He gave a wry laugh. Well, funny she should ask. He was pretty miserable in fact. He thought about her all the time. His arms ached for her. His heart was broken. He’d written her a dozen texts only to delete them.
Also, the Charleston Yacht Club had already given that job to someone else. Yes, he’d checked. Because the thought of sticking around here, seeing Maggie every time she brought Zoey to see the family, was something he’d sworn he was finished with.
He waved good-bye to the last guest, reboarded the vessel, and joined the crew in cleanup. He’d search for another job. Or maybe move theCarolina Dreamto another port and start over somewhere else. But he sure hated the thought of letting down Big D and his crew.
Will.
He felt a ping of guilt every time he saw the guy. Like now. His nephew was elbow deep in the greasy popcorn machine. Josh would have to address that soon. But first he had to tell his family. And before that he needed to check in with Maggie, owner of his heart.
He rolled his eyes at his melodrama, put down the broom, and whipped out his phone again.
Just friends. Just good ol’ Josh checking in on his sister-in-law.Doing okay. How’s school going?
After he sent the text, three dots appeared immediately. Josh waited, his heart skittering in his chest.
Her reply came seconds later.It’s going well.
When more dots appeared, Josh delayed his response.
Have you told your family yet?
I told you I’d wait awhile.
Go ahead. You shouldn’t put it off any longer.
He was feeling exactly the same. It was hard being around Will, being around his family when he held this bombshell. He’d been avoiding his family because of his discomfort, but he could hardly dodge Will. Though he was only part-time now that his classes were underway again. But the guy deserved to know the truth.
He reread Maggie’s text. Had she thought about how this might change things going forward?Sure you’re ready for that? We can put it off a bit longer.
Her reply was immediate:I’m sure.
Josh paused, thumbs hovering over the keyboard.How are you doing?Would she be more forthcoming than he would? Three dots appeared. But there was such a long pause that he almost grabbed the broom again.
Then her reply appeared.I’ve been better. I’ve starting seeing Miss Allison again. Hoping to sort some things out.
Good. That was good. Between her mother and everything with Ethan, Maggie had had a lot to deal with.You’re stronger than you know.
