Page 70 of The Sky in Summer
A deep sigh proceeds my comment.
“You’re right about me understanding because I am a mother. Their happiness comes before ours sometimes. Many times. I would love to tell you how I really feel. But, I have to respect Van’s privacy. He should know before anyone else does.”
Aurora’s eyes lock on mine. “So, he doesn’t know how you really feel?”
“That’s all I am going to say about it. I’ve already said too much.”
Damn, the woman is smart. She knows I feel more.
“Okay. I’m changing the subject. Thank you for indulging me.”
There is an obvious joy lighting her face, and when I look at Scarlett and Barbra, they emit the same glow. I need to try to contain the enthusiasm.
“He’s going to Paris, to the apartment and the new job. It’s the chance of a lifetime. Please don’t say anything that would make him second-guess himself. Let him follow his own counsel.”
Aurora’s hands lift, fingers spread. “I’m not saying another word.”
“Promise?”
It takes a few beats before I get my answer.
“Promise.”
“Okay, good. I trust you, Aurora.”
“Honey, let me just add one more thing. No matter what happens, you and the twins will always be welcome in our home.”
“Ours too,” Scarlett says.
“Thank you both.”
The tears fill my eyes and I fight like hell to stop them from falling. One escapes and I catch it with the napkin. I can’t look anybody in the eye.
“I’m sorry, honey. No more sad talk. Let’s order, I’m starved,” Aurora says, taking my hand.
It stops any further discussion about her son’s love life.
Love life. I wish.
I am lousy company. Barbra didn’t pause when I asked to be taken home. Shopping was not going to do it today. She realizes I must be near death. All the way from the restaurant she has been looking at me. Waiting for me to spill my guts.
“You okay, sister?”
“I’m fine.”
“I don’t think so. Come on, talk to me.”
Feeling the slouch, I sit up taller.
“It’s just a mess. It’s all a Big. Fucking. Mess.”
“Does he know how you feel?”
“Hell no.”
“Brilliant plan.”
It stings. But she’s right. What was I thinking?
