Page 67 of Secret Spark

“The only slightly good thing was that Mark and I had each other. When I say we’ve been through everything together, I meaneverything. I…” Old, familiar pain coursed through Joan’s veins. “I still feel guilty for what happened.”

“Why?”

“The equipment shed thing was my fault. Getting expelled. I took away his future without giving him a choice.”

Sadie sucked in a small gasp. “Joan. That wasn’t your fault. You were kids. You didn’t know how to control your abilities.”

“Consciously, I know the adults around me failed us. But that doesn’t take away the sting. It’s why I’m protective of him.”

“You were protecting him even then.”

“Yeah,” Joan said. “He was the one who first thought about a food truck. I think part of why I want to do it is because he really wants to. I do, too, but I want to do it for him as much as for me.”

Rubbing her arm, Sadie said, “He’s lucky to have such a caring sister.”

“I’m lucky to have him.”

Joan welcomed the hug Sadie enveloped her in. She rested her chin against Sadie’s temple, soothed by her embrace, her compassion. It felt good to talk to someone about this.

“I’m so glad you have each other,” Sadie said, and squeezed tighter.

“Me, too.”

She pulled back enough to give Joan a small smile. “I bet you’re the older twin.”

“I am. By eight minutes.”

“Thank god. I’m a much better match for oldest kids. I’m the youngest and used to being spoiled and getting exactly what I want.”

Humor brimmed in Sadie’s coffee-colored eyes, and she was visibly trying not to laugh. But the levity was nice, and the idea of giving her everything she wanted was pretty damn appealing. It helped tamp down the nerves over trusting her with some serious inside information.

Maybe it was a mistake to tell her about Mark, but she wanted Sadie to know. Wanted her to know everything.

“I hope I can spoil you as much as you’ve been spoiling me,” Joan said, massaging Sadie’s lower back.

“I hope…” Sadie tiptoed up to nuzzle Joan’s nose. “We can spoil one another.” She glanced behind Joan. “Shoot. I need to get going.”

“I can drive you if you’re worried you’ll be late.”

Sliding back, Sadie said, “As long as we leave, like, now, we’re good.”

Well, crap. Not like Joan could toss outBy the way, funny story about my secret identity. Have fun at work!

They headed for the island to grab their phones and keys. She’d finally gotten a text from Perry.

Went out of town. Will explain later. Job tomorrow night. Não se preocupe.

He only told them not to worry when he meant it.

A job tomorrow night. Probably selling some of that art he stole. Not that she wanted any part of it, but for Perry, it could be her last job. Mark’s last job.

Spark and Ice’s last job.

“I’m officially a fan of your frittata,” Sadie said, strolling toward the door.

“I’m officially a fan of Sadie Eagan.”

“Well, aren’t you cute, Joan Malone?” She grinned as Joan joined her. Damn, she was adorable.

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