"Especially not the lemons," I put in.
"Especially not the freaking lemons," she said then added, "I know you're hurting, Freya. I'm sorry you didn't get to go on that tour. Really."
"Thanks, Mom," I said and meant it.
I thought we were having a moment, thought this would be a bright spot. Unfortunately, I didn't see the cliff coming until it was too late.
"This may surprise you, but I know my daughter," she went on.
"Apparently."
"And I know you're not going to like what I'm about to say, but?—"
"But you've decided to spare me any further pain and not say it?" I cut in hopefully.
She gave me a soft smile.
"Okay, fine. Hit me. This week can't possibly get any worse."
Famous last words...
"I'm getting married in a few weeks, and I want you to be there," she said.
My breathing stalled. For a second, things went a little blurry. I wondered if I was dying but realized later it was probably just the oxygen loss.
"Freya?" Mom said.
I opened my mouth, and nothing came out.
This couldn't be real.
But then the trio of girls got out of the pool, and one of them walked over to us. Stacia was my mom's strongest swimmer, the prettiest too with her smooth, olive skin and expressive eyes. She was older than me but only by a couple of years. Stacia tugged loose her hair tie, letting her long dark locks fall freely to her waist, wearing a bright smile on her beautiful face.
"Did you tell her?" she said.
"I did," Mom replied.
"And?"
"She hasn't said anything."
"She's probably just excited." Stacia flashed those pearly whites as she put her hands on my shoulders. "Your mom ismarrying my dad. We're going to be sisters, Freya. Isn't that amazing?"
"Amazing," I choked as she pulled me in for a tight hug.
As she leaned back and looped her arms with mine and my mom's, she added, "I've always wanted a sister."
Stacia looked to me expectantly.
"I kinda liked being an only child," I said with a shrug.
"Well, that's cool. Hopefully, you'll like having a brother and sister too."
Her tone turned serious.
"If you want to call dibs on maid of honor, I completely understand."
Feeling like I was in a daze, I shook my head. "What?"
