Page 46 of Secrets on Ice

The tears come again. Urgh, I’m sick of crying. I’m sick of everything hurting. Mom holds me until I finally pull away.

“Come inside. I made dinner.”

“Thanks.”

Mom leads us inside, and the three of us sit at the kitchen table while she serves enough food for ten people.

“How’s Cassidy?”

“Angry.”

Mom sits across from me. “What happened?”

And so, I explain to Mom what went down. After more tears, it’s time to retreat to my bedroom, have a shower, and an early night. I am spent from the day. The hot shower is exactly what I need, and it helps clear away some of the fog. I get changed into my pajamas and jump into bed, and that’s when my phone buzzes. I think it’s Cassidy, but it’s Kevin.

Kevin: Today didn’t go the way I wanted it to. I’m not blaming you. I know we deserved everything you said.

My anger returns immediately.

Kevin: For what it’s worth, I am so sorry I hurt you.

Tears well in my eyes.

Kevin: Once I let go of my pride and listened to what you actually said today. I’m sorry.

Kevin: I can’t imagine how much of a shock this must have been for you. And for what it’s worth, I love you.

I wipe the tears from my cheeks.

Kevin: Maybe one day we can be friends again.

Hell no.

Kevin: Trevor and I will make sure we aren’t home tomorrow so that you and Cass can pack up your things. Take whatever you want or need from the home, I won’t stop you.

Oh, how nice of you.

Kevin: Just wanted to let you know we contacted a lawyer after you left. They’ll speak to yours tomorrow.

Kevin: We don’t want to fight you.

I snort.

Kevin: Regarding the home and business, guess things will be tricky. But Trevor and I were talking, and maybe if you girls take the houses, we take the business. Make it an easy swap. I mean, you did say you didn’t want the business, and you were moving to New York, so that might be easier.

Ember: That’s an interesting offer. I will present it to my lawyer. They will be in touch.

And I leave it at that. There’s nothing more to say.

11

SULLY

Trevor kept his word. His car isn’t in the driveway when we pull up, and the house looks empty from the outside. Cassidy stares at it from the passenger seat.

“You ready?” I ask.

“No.”