Does it even matter? This is her fault. She brought this down on us, on herself.The albatross around my neck. Finally, I could see things clearly, could see her for the snake she was.
Anytime I got close to succeeding, she pulled me down. It was the foundation of our relationship, a history we couldn’t escape. I would never get ahead if I was shackled to her. Our relationship had peaked before it even started, and everything since our youthful tryst had been a mistake. It was time to end this mess.
Chapter 16
Sophie
Meeting the parents. It felt like a big deal. Or maybe I was just traumatized from my experience with Max and Helen.
“Sophie, dear, everything is going to be fine,” Walt assured me, wrapping his arm around my shoulders for a quick squeeze. I tried to loosen the death grip I had on the bottle of wine I’d brought for dinner. A moment of insecurity hit me. I was bringing my ex’s grandfather with me to meet my new boyfriend’s family.What am I doing?The door swung open before I could fully melt down.
“You’re here! Oh, we’ve been dying to meet you!” I was enveloped in a hug from a tiny but strong woman.
Her dark hair was sprinkled with gray, cut in a chic shoulder-length style with thick bangs. She had a long sweater on that looked incredibly soft yet casual, paired with brown leggings and thick socks. She had a scarf draped loosely around her neck, making the outfit look put together in a way I could never pull off. She stepped back, but didn’t let go of me completely, examining my face. I was surprised when she pressed her hand to my cheek.
“Just lovely. We’re so happy to have you here,” she told me, excitement written all over her. Before I could reply, she was moving on from me to crouch in front of Lou.
“Hi, there. Are you Eloise?” she asked, her voice kind, an inviting smile on her face. Lou looked up at me shyly before turning back to the woman.
“Linc calls me Lou.”
“Does he now? Well, I’m Linc’s mama. My name is Abigail, but you can call me Abby or Mimi. Whichever you prefer.” My heart beat in my chest as I watched the interaction.
“Oh, where are my manners? Come in. Here, let me take those,” Abigail said, reaching for the container of cookies Lou was holding.
“I made them with Mommy. They’re for you,” Lou said, passing the container over excitedly.
“They must be the best cookies ever, then! I can’t wait to try one.” We had made it into the entryway, and I was helping Lou out of her shoes and jacket as Abigail stood near us, chatting away.
“And you must be Pops. We’ve heard a lot about you as well.”
“Thank you for letting me join, Mrs. Carson,” he replied.
“Please, none of that formal nonsense. Abby or Mimi for you as well,” she replied, and a feeling of warmth spread through me. In only a few seconds, this woman had welcomed us into her home, genuine interest and care in every gesture.
“Ma? What’s taking so long?” Linc appeared, well over a foot taller than his mother. Their resemblance was unmistakable. As soon as he saw us, his face softened.
“Linc!” Lou ran straight for him, leaping into his arms as soon as he was within reach. Catching her easily, Lincoln watched Lou closely as she filled him in.
“Your mom said I can call her Mimi. Is that okay? We made cookies!”
“Mom is the boss. You should listen to her.” He gave Lou a hug before putting her down, an analytical look on his face.
“Lulu, you look bigger since the last time I saw you. Have you been eating your broccoli?”
“I’ve been eating my vegetables every day! I’m stronger, just like you said.” She puffed her chest out proudly as we all stood around, watching the two engage.
“Well, grab on. Let’s see how much stronger,” Linc said, lifting his arm out.
The more time we spent together, the closer the two got, andthis was one of their favorite games. She grabbed Linc’s arm, her hands looking so tiny against his forearm as he lifted her. Lou squealed in excitement before breaking into giggles as she tried to hold on, her feet dangling just a few inches from the ground.
“Wow. Never thought I’d see the day, but damn, if this isn’t adorable.” A younger woman spoke from my side. I jumped, not having heard her approach.
“Quinn. Baby sister, favorite child, and keeper of all family secrets. Anytime Linc pisses you off, I’m your girl,” she told me. I couldn’t help but laugh.
“It’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you,” I told her honestly. I knew she was a social worker and that, behind her affable nature, she could be ruthless and protective of those in her care. I admired what she did, but had a hard time imagining the young woman scaring anyone.
“Come on, let me get you a glass of wine. Hopefully, they’ll figure out the rest of the house exists past the entryway.” I paused for a moment, but seeing that Lou was with Linc, both Walt and Abigail standing by, I followed.
