Page 25 of Love's Bloom
GG clucked her tongue. “It is such a tragedy for the family to lose Lily. I’m glad you’ve made that connection. Susie is a very special woman. I’m happy for you both.”
Misty gripped her hands together, suddenly emotional. “Susie knew my mother when she was about to have me and for a short while afterward. She told me how excited my mother was about me.” Tears filled Misty’s eyes. “That means so much to me.”
GG gave her hand a surprisingly strong grip. “It’s important for you to know that. As unorthodox as your upbringing was, there was love before your mother was lost to addiction.”
“Everyone in town has always been very kind to Crystal and me,” said Misty. “You, especially. I won’t ever forget it.”
“Just pass it along. That’s all I’ve ever asked of anyone I’ve ever helped,” said GG, smiling at her. “So, tell me about you and David.”
Misty shrugged. “There’s not much to tell. We’ve had only a couple of dates. He’s a great guy, very caring. I like him a lot.” She stared into the distance and turned back to GG. “But it’s going to take me a while to get over my memories with Vince. He was such an awful person. Whenever someone touches me unexpectedly, I flinch. I can’t help it.”
“Do you need to go back to therapy?” GG asked.
“I think it’s just going to take time. I worry David will get frustrated with my issues,” said Misty honestly.
“You couldn’t have chosen a better man than David. He’s a gentleman through and through,” said GG. “He’s always been the one among the kids who knew when to help someone. Growing up, David was instinctively kind.”
“Even though he’s older and I was the tag-along sister, I remember that about him. So, it makes sense that I can trust David.”
GG’s blue eyes bore into her. “The more you give yourself chances to get beyond your past, the better off you’ll be. But if you need to talk to a professional about it, do it. We can’t let anyone ruin your future, can we?”
“No,” whispered Misty.Damn Vince for what he’s done.I’ll never forgive myself for ignoring the red flags showing what kind of person he was.
She saw that GG was growing tired and stood. “I’d better go.”
GG gave her an encouraging smile. “It’s always great to see you. And anytime you need to talk about it, I’m here for you.”
Misty leaned down and hugged her. “Thanks. You always know how to make me feel better.”
“It’s my pleasure to see you,” said GG. “No news of Crystal’s wedding?”
Misty shook her head. “I know she’d like to elope, but I don’t think that’s going to happen. But I’m sure you’ll be among the first to know when they decide.”
GG’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “I’m sure I will.”
Misty chuckled. “I’ll talk to you later. Thanks.”
She left GG’s apartment and walked through the lobby to the outside. She heard the cry of a cardinal, her lucky bird, and was very satisfied she’d come to see GG.
###
Misty wasn’t surprised when David called her that evening. “Can you talk?”
“Sure. I’m glad you called. I had an amazing time with your mother at lunch. We’re both eager to get to know one another better.”
“That’s nice,” he said, and Misty could hear the happiness in his voice. “Do you want to meet at Jake’s?”
“Yes, but I’ll only have something to drink. I’m still full of lunch at Chica’s. I guess it pays to know the owner. Mama Montoya couldn’t do enough for your mother.”
David chuckled. “They’ve been friends for a long time. Okay, I’ll see you at Jake’s. But, Misty, I’d like to take you out to dinner this weekend. Are you up for it?”
“Yes, that would be nice.” She didn’t care where they went. She just wanted to spend time with him.
CHAPTER NINE
Misty headed to Jake’s, excited for the opportunity to be with friends. It was such a lovely evening she decided to walk, certain she could get someone to drive her home.
The town was crowded with visitors, but Misty easily wended her way through the sightseers. When she arrived at Jake’s, most of the gang was there. Some had already eaten, and others were placing orders. She waited until they were through and ordered a small glass of wine.
