Page 104 of Last Call

“No. It isn’t.”

Fallon smiled. “I get it.”

“I’m glad you do. I’m sorry.”

“Why are you apologizing for Jake?”

“I can’t believe he would say those things to you.”

“He’s dealing with regret,” Fallon said. “I’m not sorry. That’s the thing. I spent a long time feeling guilty. Guilty that I didn’t leave with Liv. Guilty that I loved you. Guilty that I couldn’t tellyou. And then I felt guilty for finding Riley. I even felt guilty that it hurt so much when you left Jake because I was with Riley.”

“Fallon.”

“Hell, I felt guilty abouteverything. I don’t regret anything about our time together. I certainly don’t regret the relationship I have with the kids. I understand why he’s angry. He’s furious with himself. And he’s still living in the past—at least, he is in his head. Funny, isn’t it?”

“What might that be?” Andi asked.

“I’ve been thinking how running away never ends well. That’s what he did. It’s what Dean has done. It’s how Liv handled life. Run when it’s uncomfortable. I’ve never done that. Neither have you. We stick it out—see it through. Don’t worry about what Jake said to me. I’m not.”

Andi leaned against the counter, silently regarding Fallon.

“Hey,” Riley said, opening the door. “Am I intruding?”

“Not at all,” Fallon replied, turning to her.

“I think we should head out,” Riley offered. “Maybe it will send the signal that the party is over. Becky looks exhausted. I don’t think she wants to say anything.”

“I’ll gently suggest she come inside and put her feet up,” Andi said.

Fallon grabbed Andi’s arm before she could leave. “No regrets,” she said.

Andi smiled. “No regrets.”

Fallon turned back to Riley. “So, I’m guessing my mission, should I choose to accept it, is to capture Owen?”

“Actually, no.”

“No?”

“Nope. Your mom asked if she could take him for the night,” Riley said.

“She did? When did this happen?”

“When you came inside earlier. I think a little dose of Owen’s silliness is what she needs right now. Beth just left with Pete and the kids. I don’t think Ida wants to be alone. Dora’s stroke rattled her.”

“Yeah. I know it did.”

“I think your idea to have Ida take a trip with us down to visit Sylvia is a good one.”

“I hope so.”

“Fallon?”

“What? I’d love to see Sylvia.”I’m not sure she’ll be happy to see me.

“Fallon, she’s happy for me.”

“It’s got to be strange for her, Riley.”

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