He went closer. His mouth came open slightly, but he said nothing, just stood there, looking at it. Finally, he spoke. “Frankie, this is amazing.”
“Thanks. It’s got a long way to go.”
He turned to see her. “This is art. Real art. Which didn’t come out the way I meant it. Obviously, what you do is art. But this is…gallery worthy. It’s beautiful. It’s got emotion. Even in this state. I’m seriously in awe of your talent.”
“As my boyfriend, you’re required to say that.”
He shook his head. “I mean it. Why don’t you paint more? Is it a time thing?”
“That and it’s expensive. I haven’t had the funds, really. Graphic design on the computer doesn’t require supplies and it suits most people’s needs. And budget.”
“Makes sense.” He came over to her and took her hand. “It’s kind of hot knowing how talented you are.”
She laughed. “You think so, huh?”
“I do.” He nodded and kissed her cheek. “Don’t get too famous, okay? I don’t want to lose you to some rich dude who promises you trips to the Louvre and all that.”
She just grinned at him, amused that he could actually think that would happen. Not to mention, Lucas wasn’t exactly poor. He was just being sweet. “You have nothing to worry about. Cross my heart.”
“Good. See you tonight?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Or a rich dude.”
Chapter Fifty-Two
Mitch sat quietly next to Harper as the director of the assisted-living facility, an older man with a weak chin and a strong mustache named Stan Hunsberger, explained the paperwork and pointed out where to sign.
She nodded and “uh-hmm’d” and clicked the end of the pen. She carefully signed her name, turning page after page to add her signature several more times.
When she was done, she pushed the paperwork back toward the director.
“That’s it,” Stan said. “The cremation will be taken care of in the next week or so, and the cremains sent to you by insured mail. All that’s left to take care of are her possessions.”
Consternation wrinkled Harper’s brow. “I didn’t think she had much with her. Just some clothes, right? Those can be donated. I’m sure it’s what she would have wanted.”
Stan nodded. “That’s fine, but our policy is that a family member has to go through everything.”
Probably covering themselves from a legal angle, Mitch imagined. But it was going to be hard on Harper.
She gave a little sigh. “Is there much more than clothing?”
“Not too much. Some books, some small personal items. A few pieces of jewelry, that sort of thing. I have it all for you in the conference room, if you’d like to follow me there.”
Harper glanced at Mitch. He nodded. This was no bother for him. He was here for whatever she needed to do. “All right,” she said. “I’m sure it won’t take a minute.”
Stan got up. “You’re welcome to take all the time you need. We certainly aren’t going to rush you.”
“Thanks.” Harper got to her feet.
Mitch waited until she’d gone past him, then got out of his chair and followed her.
They left the office and went with Stan down the hall. The conference room was only two doors away. He opened the door but stayed in the hall. “If you need anything, just let us know.”
Harper nodded. “Thank you.”
Stan left and Harper went in, Mitch behind her. He put his hand on the doorknob but didn’t shut it. “Do you want me to wait out in the lobby?”
“No, this won’t take long. Stay.”
