Page 34 of Reunion at Mistletoe Lodge
“You have nothing to feel guilty about, Barb,” Emily stated as if she’d read Barb’s mind and heard all her conflicting thoughts. “Trevor was the one that left and went into hiding if he is still alive.” She raised her brows. “Just like you have nothing to feel guilty about if you want to go through with the divorce from Zac. He abandoned and then ghosted you.” She pointed a finger. “His family didn’t even have the decency to call you and let you know. Instead, they let you suffer.”
“I know.” Barb sighed. “I also tried to let Zac know about Charlotte, but he never even replied. Surely, one of his family members has his phone. If it is really Zac who is the one injured.”
“Exactly!” Emily said, backing up her friend. “So if you decide you’re going through with the divorce, you know my family will stand beside you.”
“Thank you,” Barb said, her heartwarming. She’d never had the luxury of friends growing up, and as an adult, she’d had Trevor and Giles.
Emily and Heather were the first best friends she’d had in her life, and she couldn’t have asked for better ones.
“I’ll keep Oscar tonight if you like,” Emily offered. “Avery and Ryder have asked if I’ll look after their two kids again tonight as they need to get more supplies for the festival and Countdown to Christmas festive fun.”
“Oh!” Barb breathed. “I’d nearly forgotten that it starts today!”
“Yup!” Emily nodded. “I’ll keep you some of the better decorations if you want to compete in the decorating competition.”
“I do,” Barb said, her heart lifting. She loved Christmas, especially now that she had kids. “And Oscar would never forgive me if we didn’t participate in the Mistletoe Countdown to Christmas fun or the festival.”
“Good.” Emily nodded. “But you need to get some rest.” She glanced at the small monitor near the door. “You should try to do so while Charlotte’s asleep.”
“I’m going to have a shower,” Barb admitted. “If Charlotte’s still asleep, I need to get us unpacked. That sleep at the hospital did wonders for me.”
There was a knock at the door. “That must be your breakfast.”
“I’ll get it,” Barb said, her stomach giving a little rumble at the thought of food. “I’m actually quite hungry.”
“Good,” Emily said, following her to the door. “I ordered you the farm-style breakfast.”
“I’m quite hungry,” Barb got to the door and froze when she saw Liam standing in the doorway. He’d changed. His hair was still damp. Gone was the expensive suit, replaced by a long-sleeved cotton T-shirt that strained across his muscular chest, jeans, a sheepskin-lined bomber jacket, and dark brown hiking boots. Barb swallowed at how handsome he looked.“Oh, it’s you!”
“Were you expectingsomeone else?” Liam’s brows rose.
“Yes, she was,” Emily stepped beside Barb.
“Hello, Emily,” Liam greeted her. “I need to have a word with Barb—alone.”
Emily looked at him in surprise. “That’s rude. I was here visiting my friend.”
“Sorry,” Liam apologized. “Forgive my rudeness.” He sighed. “I’m a little tired.”
Emily nodded and looked at Barb. “Do you want me to keep Oscar tonight?”
“I think we should let him decide,” Barb said. “Although it might be best if he’s not sick. I’m not sure if this virus is contagious.”
“I’ll ask him,” Emily said, her head looking past Liam as Barb’s breakfast arrived. “Your breakfast is here.”
Liam turned and took the tray from the Mistletoe staff member, signed the bill, and handed the tray to Barb.
“Thanks,” Barb said, stepping back. “Come in,” she invited Liam.
“I’ll go check on the kids,” Emily said, giving Liam a warning look. “Liam!” She stepped past him, turning back to Barb. “I’ll call you when we open the barn.”
“Okay.” Barb nodded, turning to the dining table where she put her breakfast tray. Emily pulled the door closed behind her, leaving Barb and Liam alone.
“How is Charlotte?” Liam asked, following Barb to the dining table.
“Sleeping,” Barb told him. “Can I make you some coffee?”
“No, thank you, I’m fine,” Liam declined her offer. “But please, eat.”
