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Internally, I am cringing. “I love him.”
“Then make sure you put in the effort.”
“I have. We have.”
“I’m glad to hear that because marriage doesn’t run on autopilot. It needs to be nurtured and babied.”
“How do you handle it all with the boys?”
“We make time for each other. Zane has been good about coming home early during the week. He does have lapses where he’ll stay late at the office a time or two, but he more than makes up for them.”
“Lana, how much did it hurt when you left him?”
She lifts an eyebrow at me. “It hurt. It was the hardest thing I ever did, but I wasn’t his priority. I gave Zane many chances, and he blew them all, and I couldn’t live that way. When I came back, he was more committed. Why do you ask?”
“I was just wondering.”
“The things you’re saying make me believe your marriage isn’t as rock-solid as you make it seem.”
“It is, I promise. I just wanted to spend time with the boys. I miss them.”
“Have you thought about having children of your own?”
“I do. Foster wants children.”
“Then make it work.”
I nod. “We’re trying our best.”
“I’m always here if you need to talk.”
“I know. You’ve always been a wonderful friend. Zane is lucky to have you.”
“I’m lucky to have him.”
My brother pops through the front door as we are finishing our talk. He puts down his briefcase and comes into the kitchen. He embraces Lana and gives her a passionate kiss. They act as if they are the only ones in the room, staying lip locked for what seems like hours. Trying to pass the time, I concentrate on my tea. Once they separate, Zane moves to hug me.
“How’s my baby sister?” he asks.
“I’m fine. Just missing my family.”
“Is Foster treating you well?” I didn’t miss his frown when he said Foster’s name. I know Zane was trying to like him, but once our divorce was revealed, there would be no going back. If he ever finds out the truth, there will be bloodshed.
“Yes,” I answer, “he treats me very well.”
“I hope so.”
“Stop worrying about me. We’re fine.”
Lana and Zane exchange a knowing glance as if they have previously discussed my situation. I need to keep up better appearances. Later that evening, I fake a call to Foster, telling him how much I miss and love him. If only my brother and sister in law knew there was no one at the other end of the line.
I spend four glorious days with my brother and his family before they start to wonder when I was leaving. At breakfast on Friday morning, I’m met with questions as I help feed the twins.
“You haven’t said when Foster is coming home,” Zane says, taking a bite of his oatmeal.
“Soon, I think on Monday.”
He clears his throat. “That’s funny because I saw him at The Wyatt. I was having lunch with Jordan, and Foster was coming out from one of the private conference rooms. He asked how you were.
