Page 21 of Proof

“I still have a bunch of stuff to look through. I’ll probably throw most of it away.” But did she want to? Would it erase the past? Maybe it should be erased. She put the papers away and put the lid on the box. That was enough reminiscing for one day.

“Cul? I’m glad you are going to tell Chi-Chi how you feel. It’s important to let people know you care about them. Don’t let your fear get in your way.” She knew she was repeating herself, but thought a reminder was necessary.

“Got it, Sis.” He smiled. “You sure you’re okay?”

“I dunno. Maybe it’s hormones.”

Cullen stiffened. “Geez, if I suggested that, you would punch me in the face.”

“True. I can say it because they are my hormones.” Luna put the lid on the box. “Will you put this in my car, please?” She didn’t wait for an answer and handed him the box.

“You closing up soon?” Cullen asked as he took ownership of the mementos.

“Yeah. I’ll check with Ellie first to see if she needs anything else for the shindig on Thursday.”

“You guys—I mean gals—I mean women . . .” Cullen paused, knowing some women were offended by lots of things when hormones struck. “What do you prefer I call you?”

“What do you mean?” Luna squinted at him.

“Guys? Gals?”

“You mean that play?” Luna was busting his chops.

“No, silly. How do you like to be referred to? As?”

“Luna.” Now she was giving him a hard time.

“Please, Luna. Sometimes I feel I have to tiptoe around people with all this political correctness. Don’t misunderstand me. I get it. I mean, I want to say the right thing.”

Luna stared at him. “Boy, you are really having a meltdown, aren’t you?”

Cullen shook his head. “No, but I am making an effort to choose my words carefully.”

“And I appreciate that. But I’m your sister, for heaven’s sake. You’ve referred to me with some rather unflattering names over the years.”

“Ha, ha.”

“Listen, I don’t care if you call us guys, gals, pals, kids, team, whatever. As long as you’re not trying to be derogatory.”

“I would never!” Cullen raised his voice.

“Calm down, brother. You know what I think? I think we need to go get a pizza and a beer.”

“Sounds good.” Cullen exhaled.

“Should we invite Chi-Chi?” Luna gave him a sideways look.

“She has a late appointment, so she’s not available.” He seemed relieved.

“Okay. Let me give Ellie a buzz. I’ll catch up with you in your workshop.” Luna picked up the walkie-talkie and buzzed Ellie. “Hey, Ellie. Cullen and I are about to head out. You need anything?”

“I think we have everything under control.” Ellie sounded confident.

“Super! I’ll see you in the morning. Scones and cappuccino! Ciao!” Luna clicked the off button on the device, then nodded at Wylie. “Come on, pal.”

She met up with Cullen at the back of his shop. “Does Three Brothers have outdoor seating during the week, or should I drop Wylie off at home?”

“I saw tables on the sidewalk when I drove in this morning.”

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