Page 126 of Love on the Run

Anna’s smile bloomed. “I think I knew I loved you too. It’s been a whirlwind.”

“But I wouldn’t change it for anything.”

After everyone had opened their gifts and started chatting, Anna rested her hand on Beau’s arm. “I’m going to try to call Brittany.”

Beau nodded. He’d been supportive as they tried to piece together Brittany’s actions. Still, they were missing something, and Anna couldn’t give up until she knew the truth.

Slipping into the kitchen, she dialed Brittany’s number but didn’t get an answer. Maybe she’d return the call later.

Anna cradled the phone in her hands. There was one more call she needed to make. Could she work up the courage to press the button?

Beau walked in with his hands in the pockets of his jeans. “What did she say?”

“Nothing. She didn’t answer.”

He slid his hand behind Anna’s neck, threading his fingers in her hair. “Did she sound okay last time the two of you talked?”

“She did, but I don’t know anything about her family. She doesn’t talk about them. What if she’s alone on Christmas?”

He pressed a kiss to Anna’s forehead. “You’ve done all you can do for now.”

Letting her chin dip to her chest, the words sank in. “I know. I just wish I could help.”

“You’re a good friend—better than any I’ve ever seen,” Beau said.

She didn’t feel like a good friend while she worried over Brittany. “Thanks. I have one more call to make.”

“You want me to stay?” he asked.

“Would you?” She could do the hard part on her own, but knowing Beau would stand beside her through anything was a reminder she needed.

She dialed the number and pressed the phone to her ear. Listening to the ringing, Anna reminded herself that words could hurt, but there wasn’t an actual threat waiting on the other side of the call.

“Hello,” her father answered, clipped and short despite knowing exactly who was calling.

“Hey, Dad. Merry Christmas.”

There was only a small pause before he cleared his throat. “Merry Christmas to you.”

Anna’s pulse pounded in her ears. “Is Mom around?”

“Just a moment.”

Anna glanced up at Beau and stretched a smile as her dad’s “moment” stretched over fifteen seconds.

Beau shook his head and brushedthe pad of his thumb over her bottom lip. “No fake smiles,” he whispered.

Right. She’d promised him honesty in all forms, and it felt good to be vulnerable when she knew he wouldn’t leave.

“Hello.”

“Hey, Mom. I just wanted to call and wish you and Dad a merry Christmas.”

“Well, Merry Christmas to you too. I hope you’re happy.”

The words may have kind meanings, but Catherine’s snide tone said anything but.

“I am. How have you been?”

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