Page 115 of The Addendum

“Maddox makes the best spiked iced tea. I thought you could use it.”

I took a sip, humming in appreciation. “It’s delicious.”

“How are you holding up?” she asked, meeting my eyes, her gaze filled with motherly concern. “I know my own lot is a bit much to handle. The extended family must be scaring you silly.”

I laughed. “They are all wonderful. I’m going to mix up names and families for a while.” Then I became serious. “Everyone is so welcoming. After how I behaved, I’m surprised.”

She lifted a shoulder. “We all understand what a shock this was for you. For my husband.”

“How are you so kind?” I asked before I could stop myself.

“Why wouldn’t I be? You’re part of Richard. I see so much of him in you. And your mother was right. You have his capacity for love. I’m glad she saw that side of him. It shows, whether or not he admitted it to himself, he cared about her.”

I stared at her for a moment. “Thank you for saying that.”

She smiled. “I think she would be pleased you found him, and that you aren’t so alone anymore.”

There were shouts of laughter from behind us, and she shook her head. “Although at times, you might wish you were.”

I had to smile with her. It was impossible not to like Katy VanRyan. She was warmth and love wrapped up in a tiny package. Richard and her children adored her. Somewhere deep inside me was a voice telling me that I was going to as well.

“If you ever need a quiet moment,” she advised, “the library is often empty during these get-togethers. The chair to the right of the fireplace is especially comfortable.”

“Thanks for the tip.”

She nodded and headed inside.

After a few moments, Luc appeared beside me, snaking his arm around my waist. He pressed a kiss to my head. “Holding up, love?”

I nodded, snuggling close to him. “I’m good.”

“Quite the crew,” he commented.

“They certainly are. Matthew is a hoot.”

He chuckled. “I think he really liked you. He’s the quiet one normally, but he was on a roll today. He observes and takes it all in, but once he speaks, look out. His sense of humor is wicked. He does imitations too.”

“My mom used to mimic people. She was great at it.”

“You should get him going. Maybe you can tag team with your brother.”

“Half brother,” I corrected.

He shook his head. “Ashley, you’ve met them. Do you really think this family does anything by half measures?”

“No,” I admitted. “Except maybe Grace. I’m not sure how she feels about me.”

He shook his head. “She’s fine. She’s so close to Richard, I’m not surprised she’s holding back a bit. Give her time.”

I looked inside, spotting her. She was beside Richard, holding Kylie. Richard was talking, and she was listening, a smile on her face. Richard leaned over, taking his granddaughter and lifting her high. Grace watched them with an indulgent smile on her face.

“His kids adore him,” I murmured.

“I think you might one day, too,” Luc said, drifting his fingers down my cheek. He smiled. “I think, maybe, you’ve already started.”

I could only smile.

I thought maybe he was right.