Page 86 of Love's Cure

“I did mention to Dirk what had been going on,” said Whitney. “I thought it was only fair.”

Crystal chuckled and shook her head. “Okay, what’s going on with you, Taylor? How’s the book coming?”

“Slowly, but it’s alright. I’ve been thinking of turning it into a trilogy. I’m creating a story bible for it.” Taylor smiled. “It might mean staying in Lilac Lake a little longer. Cooper can do a lot of his work away from the office, so being in Lilac Lake can work.”

“That sounds terrific,” said Crystal. “Nice things always seem to happen when the three of you are in town. I bet GG loves it.”

“She does,” said Dani. “By the way, Crystal, GG has decided to start a third baby blanket. She thinks you’re in the running to be the next winner.”

Crystal’s cheeks grew hot. “Someday.”

“Seriously, what’s happening between you and Emmett now?” asked Whitney.

“We’re spending this time away from one another thinking about what each of us wants out of life, talking about anything and everything. It’s been good.”

“How’s his mother doing?” asked Dani. “We heard about her episode.”

“It’s only been a few days since she checked into rehab. In a few more, Natalie will be able to make phone calls. That’s when Emmett will know. Until then, we hope she’s following the program.”

“She was nasty to you, Crystal. I’m impressed by how you’re handling her. You’ve been very gracious,” said Whitney.

“She’s important to Emmett. Even though he and his father don’t get along, he’s important to Emmett too. I must respect that.”

“Well, I for one, love to see romance conquer all,” said Taylor with a dreamy expression.

“No wonder readers love your books,” Crystal said.

It was delightful to be able to relax and chat with her friends. The sound of rain hitting the windowpanes gave them a sense of comfort. Crystal poured more coffee and refreshed the plate of scones, and they settled down for a morning of girl talk. Though it was a usual scenario for the three sisters to do this, Crystal reveled in being part of it.

###

The rain stopped, andthe sky brightened. The cool offshore breeze seemed to dance with joy, pushing the gray clouds out over the ocean.

Crystal and her three treasured friends walked down the street to an Italian restaurant for lunch. She didn’t know about the others, but the thought of a hot soup was enticing. Mama’s was known for their Italian sausage and orzo soup, a nice change from seafood chowder.

As she ate, her thoughts flew to Misty. Since she’d come home, Misty had seemed happier and more relaxed. She hoped it was enough to make her want to stay for more than a year’s trial period.

Later, while the women got settled in their hotel room, Crystal took a moment to call Emmett. They’d talked a lot over the past few days, discovering more to like about one another. More than that, they’d become real friends.

Now, just hearing his voice, she filled with anticipation. She could hardly wait for tomorrow when they’d have the entire day together before her last show.

###

The next morning, Crystaleagerly dressed for the day. She’d just finished fussing with her hair when her cell phone rang.Emmett.

“Hello,” she chirped happily. “Are you here already?”

“I’m sorry, Crystal. I really am, but I can’t come. I got a call from the rehab hospital, and there’s been some sort of breakthrough with my mother in her counseling sessions. They want me to drive there this morning and stay for two sessions with her. I couldn’t say no.”

“Of course not,” said Crystal blinking rapidly, glad he couldn’t see her tears of disappointment.

“You’re coming home tonight, right?” said Emmett.

“Maybe not. I might stay for the wrap-up party now that you won’t be here. I’ll rest overnight and return to Lilac Lake early tomorrow. I hope things go well with your mother and she’s doing better.”

“Thanks. It sounds as if she’s working on several issues,” said Emmett. “Let’s have dinner at my house tomorrow night. Okay?”

“Yes. Don’t worry about a meal. I’ll come up with something simple. The most important thing is our being together.”

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