Page 140 of River & Rue

I grab her hand. “Have a great road trip. We’ll see you in September.”

Before I can haul her away, the Lodge’s door swings open. Kirk hoots and gallops toward us, braids flying, hairy feet slapping hot asphalt.

He spreads his arms.

“Group hug!”

part 3

river

CHRISTMAS

There’s not much in life that horrifies me more than the sight of my mother’s tears.

“Please don’t cry, Mom. I just wanted to be honest with you guys about what happened back then. I swear I’m not upset or angry.”

Her distraught expression makes my stomach hurt, but I’d be lying if I said it didn’t also heal something inside me.

So do her words.

“But you were upset and angry. And rightfully so. When you needed us to listen most, we didn’t hear you. I’m so sorry, Rivvy.”

My gaze moves helplessly to my dad, seated beside her on the couch with his arm around her shoulders. He gives me a sad smile, his eyes bright and glassy.

“She’s right, River. We failed you, and it’s important for us to own that and carry the weight of it. I’m so incredibly sorry for the pain we caused. I know we can’t change the past, but is there anything we can do now to make it right?”

Rue squeezes my hand in support.

My voice falters; I clear my throat roughly. “You just gave me everything I needed. Although…”

My mom wipes her face quickly. “Yes?”

“I wouldn’t mind never hearing the nickname Rivvy again.”

She laughs softly. “Okay, baby.”

I grimace, but Rue leans into me before I can protest that one too.

My dad’s astute eyes move between us before settling on me. His smile softens.

“I’m proud of you, son.”

And I know he isn’t talking about what I told them today.

I look at Rue, and I keep looking.

I’ll never get tired of staring at her.

A blush spreads across her cheekbones. Lifting her hand, I kiss her knuckles.

My mom’s whisper carries laughter. “Let’s get started on dinner.”

My dad murmurs a reply, and they stand. I don’t watch them leave the living room, my attention firmly fixed on Rue.

Her eyes spit fake daggers. “Your mom really needed a hug.”

“She knows I’ll hug her later. Dad too.” I smile slowly. “I can’t wait anymore.”