“Hey. It’s okay. I understand.” I slid an arm around her shoulders and hugged her closer.
Lacey raised her hand. “I can help.”
Hope flickered and took hold. Having a Plan Aanda Plan B was wonderful. “Thanks. Do you think Eli would have time, too?”
“Sure.” Her eyes warmed at the mention of her boyfriend. “He’ll be back from Europe in a few days.”
“Okay, then.” I stood, almost dizzy with relief that I wouldn’t have to face this on my own.
“Sara.” Lacey rose, too, and stared earnestly into my eyes. “If Grant comes, you can trust him.”
What an odd reminder. “I know that.”
“Even if he tells you something that sounds completely insane, it’s true.”
Kimberley was nodding. “She’s right. Grant would never lie to you.”
“Is there a point to all of this reassurance?”
“You’ll understand, when he gets here.”
TO: Counselor
FROM: Grant
DATE: Thursday, 18 June
I have received a message from Kimberley Rey, my last assignment as an apprentice. She requests my assistance with Sara Tucker. I am eager to accept.
Has the League reached a conclusion on the nature of my participation? I am prepared to suspend my role as a guardian, if that is required.
4
Faint Tracks
Distant shouts yanked me from a troubled sleep. I rolled over and peered at the clock. Eight AM. What was going on?
I stumbled out of bed and to the window. In front of the house sat a large truck withFuentes Landscapingpainted on the side. Two men pushed wheelbarrows full of mulch up our driveway.
The first “curb appeal” project was underway.
I spent the next hour getting dressed, drinking coffee, and generally doing a lot of nothing. A peek in the back yard showed that Scott and his crew had nearly finished.
A longing to be outside swamped me. I wanted to be in the sunshine, near people, watchingsomethingget better. Wishing it could be me getting better.
Scott had offered his help on Wednesday. I had no idea how he could do that, but I was glad he was willing to try. No, I was more than just glad. I waseager. I’d brushed off attempts from friends over the past few months and now, finally, when I might be ready, people weren’t asking anymore.
Except Scott.
I went outside to the patio and dropped onto the glider.
When he saw me, Scott waved. “I’ll call a break,” he said and turned to his crew. “Ustedes descansen. Nos iremos pronto.” The other two guys laughed and then took off, leaving us alone in the back.
As Scott approached, he pushed his shades to the top of his head. “Hey,” he said, stopping at the edge of the patio.
“Hey.” I tried to smile and mostly succeeded. “The yard is looking great.”
“Thanks.” His dark brown eyes were soft with sympathy. “You know about the house.”
