Page 91 of Broken Ties (Rixon High 4)

But it was at complete odds with the hollow pit in my stomach.

“Lily, what are you—”

“Surprise.” She pulled me in for a hug. “Hey, Dad.”

“Hey, sweetheart.” He dropped a kiss on her head and moved around us.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, pulling away.

“Mom didn’t tell you? I thought—”

“Tell me what?” I glanced between them.

“We’re going out for Ashleigh’s birthday. Mom got us tickets for the spa.”

“No, she didn’t mention it.” Dejection swarmed inside me.

“I thought it would be a nice treat for you and Leigh, sweetheart. She’s been through so much and I know she misses you.”

“But Mom, we could have asked Poppy.” Lily shot me an apologetic look, but I waved her off.

“Don’t be silly. You should go and have fun with Leigh. Mom’s right, she’ll be pleased to see you.”

“You’re sure? We could change plans and do something—”

“Go,” I said, nodding. “I’m going to visit soon, remember.”

“You better. I want to show you around properly this time.”

“Are you staying?” I asked.

“Yeah, but I have to leave first thing to get back for an early lecture.”

“Maybe we can have breakfast before you leave.”

“I’m sure I can squeeze you in.” She beamed.

College looked good on her. She had a quiet confidence she’d never had before and I was so happy for her. But it was bittersweet. Because the more she settled in at University Park, the more she moved away from life here.

Lily’s cell pinged and she glanced at it. “Leigh is here. I’ll see you later, okay?” She kissed Mom and then Dad.

“Have fun, sweetheart. Say hi to Leigh for us.”

Lily disappeared and I stared at Mom.

“Oh, Poppy, don’t give me that look.” She let out a dramatic sigh. “I didn’t do it on purpose. I just thought it would be nice for the two of them to spend some time together.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“You didn’t have to. Everything is not some great conspiracy against you.”

“Fee,” Dad said, giving her a warning look.

“What?”

“Babe,” he sighed. “You have to see how it looks.”

“It’s fine,” I said, heading for the door. “I have a ton of homework anyway.”

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