Page 93 of Rumor Has It

“No, please don’t go.” She sobs. “Please don’t leave us!”

My head snaps to Mackenzie, and she’s in tears. I gather her into my arms, holding her to my chest. It constricts as the fissure in my heart ruptures all over again. Rumor clutches at me as if she can’t get close enough.

“Not happening, Rumor. I’m not going anywhere, ever again.” I tighten my hold on her as if I’m trying to convince her. “You’re not Boo Baby for nothing, you hear me? You’re my Boo Baby, always.”

Mackenzie’s hand is on my back as she encases us. I peer up at her as she stands beside us, and her eyes flicker to mine, glossy and pleading. My lonely, once dead heart, thunders in my chest.

“You said always,” Mackenzie mutters. I’m not sure if it’s a question or statement, but it was heartfelt.

“Yes, Kenzie. Always means Rumor too.”

She leans in, brushing her lips to mine. “Always.”

“Finally,” Mom murmurs, drawing our attention. It then registers with me that my dad has moved to my mother’s side, holding her close.

My brows pull tight. “What’s that?”

“We’ve waited a long time for you to be happy again.” Dad grips my hand, emotion swimming in his gaze.

Mackenzie leans into my side. I move my arm, encasing both of my girls. “I know, I’ve needed them so I could feel whole.”

“You’ve been our missing piece, always have been.” Mackenzie begins to tremble. I struggle to keep from breaking into a full-on sob, my heart is so full with them here.

After dinner, I follow Dad into the family room with Rumor glued to my side. She finally perks up, tickling my dad with her wit and snarky comebacks like her mother did when we were younger.

Rumor is tucked into my dad’s side, watching a movie when it dawns on me that Mackenzie is missing. Although, it doesn’t escape me she isn’t alone. I go in search of two of the most important women in my life.

I find them huddled in a corner of the kitchen, murmuring and sniffling. “This can’t be good.” My stomach is queasy, flipping and flopping like crazy the closer I get.

“Eavesdropping is unbecoming, dear.” Mackenzie’s head whips around, flashing a wicked smile. “Can we help you?”

I step back then decide to proceed. It’s my mother, and the love of my life, surely it’s safe-ish. “I couldn’t help but notice you beautiful ladies over here alone, and I was wondering if I could join you?”

Her eyes cut to my mom and back. “I’m sorry, my friend is married and I’m … well, I’m involved.”

“Involved? What the hell kinda answer is that?” I cross my arms, miffed.

Mackenzie’s eyes widen. “I’m kidding. I think?”

“We were just catching up. A little ‘girl talk’, if you will.” Mom’s brows raise, leaving me with a million questions I’m not in the position to ask.

Mackenzie averts her eyes under my gaze. “Gwen asked if we would like to have lunch next week, maybe do a little shopping.”

“Sounds like fun.” I step closer, and Mackenzie shifts, turning away from me. My eyes dart to Mom’s, and her head shakes infinitesimally. “I mean, yeah, y’all will have a blast.”

“I think so. It’ll be great to catch up.” Mom leans in, patting Mackenzie’s hand. I can’t be sure, but I think she dries her face.

I scratch my head, sighing. “I think Dad has bored Rumor to death; they’re in the family room snoring.”

“I’ll run to the bathroom, and you can take us home.” Mackenzie springs from her seat and dashes down the hall.

I fold my arms and stare at my mom. “Is there anything you think I need to know?”

“She’ll be fine. She just needs some time.”

“I don’t understand. What does she need time for?” I fidget, knowing she’s not telling me everything.

She stands and puts her arms around me, hugging me. “You have absolutely nothing to worry about, remember her heart.”