Page 78 of The Addendum

“Right.” She chewed her lip, looking thoughtful. “So, maybe she’ll come around?”

“I hope so. I would like to think she would at least accept the friendship of her half-siblings. Form some sort of relationship with them.”

Heather nodded. “I liked her a lot. She thought it was cool I was so close to my family. She’ll figure it out.” Then she frowned. “How is Gracie handling this?”

“Um, not well.”

“She’s upset?”

“Furious.”

“But it’s not your fault, Daddy.”

I scrubbed my face. “She’s, ah, emotional.”

“Because of being pregnant?”

“Oh, you already know?” I hadn’t wanted to share Gracie’s news for her.

Heather nodded. “She told me before the wedding.”

“Okay. Yes, the pregnancy is making her more emotional than normal. It hit her hard, and we argued. I was still pretty upset when I told her, and she picked up that vibe from me. I’m giving her some time, and then we’ll hopefully clear the air.”

“I’ll talk to her.”

“I’m sure she’ll have lots to say,” I said with a sad smile. My two eldest girls were close and good friends. If Gracie listened to anyone, it might be Heather.

She leaned forward and grasped my hand. “She’ll calm down.”

I could only nod.

“Can I get in touch with Ashley?”

“I don’t see why not. You’re in a unique situation, in that you were already building a relationship with her. You were friends. I was hoping that would be a starting point for her,” I admitted. “But don’t push the family aspect. Just be her friend.” I held up my hand in warning. “She might not respond at first.”

“That’s okay,” she replied. “I’ll try again.”

“I’ll call Luc and arrange a double date. We’ll keep it light and easy,” Reed offered. “She’ll get to know you, Richard. All of you. As far as found families go, she’s struck gold.”

“Thanks, Reed.”

Heather regarded me. “You were worried about my reaction.”

“Yes. Penny, Gavin, and Matthew were accepting once they got over the shock. Gracie was the wild card,” I admitted. “The two of you are so close, I was worried you’d take her side.”

“I don’t think there is a side. We need to stick together.”

“You’re right.”

“And Mom?” she asked quietly. “How did she react?”

“It was difficult at the start, but we talked it through. Your mom is pretty damn amazing.”

I stood, pulling her to her feet and hugging her. “You too, my girl.”

“It’s all going to work out, Daddy. I promise.”

I hugged her again, grateful for her love. “Thanks, sweetheart.”