Page 90 of Finding Forever

“You’re not seriously considering it, are you?”

She sat beside me. “It’s not only my decision to make. Your grandma and granddad left the cottage to both of us.” She stared across the backyard. “It would be a huge boost for the local economy.”

“But what about all the things that have happened here? The cottage is more than a house, it’s part of who we are.”

“Those memories will still be with us, regardless of where we live, Riley. The money they’re offering is four times what we’d get on the open market.”

“Money isn’t everything.”

She nodded. “You’re right. But it does help. I’ll forward the plans to you so you can see what the developers want to do.” She stood and smiled. “I’ll be back soon with your juice.”

“Mom?”

She looked over her shoulder.

“Do you want to sell the cottage?”

“I’ll tell you after you’re ready to share your final decision. The lawyer needs an answer by the end of next week.”

I leaned against the wooden post. Why did life have to be so complicated?

“That’s a big sigh.”

Eric walked toward me. The rings under his eyes weren’t quite so dark, but the frown lines around his mouth and forehead were still there.

“Mom just told me someone wants to buy the cottage. They want to build a retirement village on our property and our neighbors’.”

He nodded. “How do you feel about that?”

“If it were just me making the decision, I’d say no. But Mom and I are joint owners. If she wants to sell, I don’t know what we’ll do.”

“Did you ask her?”

“She won’t tell me until I’ve told her my decision.”

“What would you do if you did sell?”

I studied his face. Would Eric be happy if I wanted to leave or would he be disappointed? “I’d buy another property in Sunrise Bay.”

A flicker of relief appeared in his eyes.

I cleared my throat. Nerves fluttered in my stomach, making me wary of asking Eric what was really on his mind. “Have you finished the last chapter of your book?”

“Not quite, but I’m getting there. I should be editing by tomorrow afternoon.”

“Congratulations.”

He looked at the stairs. “Do you mind if I join you?”

“I’d like that. We haven’t seen very much of you.” I bit my lip as he sat beside me. Did that sound too desperate? Too clingy? I hoped not.

The back door opened and Mom appeared. “I thought I heard another voice.” She handed me a glass of juice and smiled at Eric. “Would you like something to drink, too?”

“No, thanks. I had something before I arrived.”

“If you change your mind, there’s fresh juice in the refrigerator.” Mom looked at me. “I know it’s early, but I’m heading to bed. Is there anything you need?”

“No, I’ll be fine. Thanks for looking after me.”

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