"Are you coming to my wedding?"
Glancing at my father to see his reaction, I was met only with raised brows.
"It would mean so much to me to have you there," she said.
I swallowed, voicing the main reason I'd avoided her calls. "Well, was Dad invited?"
"I was," my father said which made my eyes widen, but he placed a hand over mine. "But I'm still not sure if I'll go. I think your mother just did it to be nice."
Mom gave a quiet laugh. "No, I invited you because even though our marriage is over, Thaddeus, our friendship is still strong."
Dad frowned. "Apparently not strong enough to make you stop using my full name—which you know I hate."
"And I love teasing you about it, so..."
"I'll remember that, Francine."
Mom blanched then shook herself. "So?" she said to me.
"Of course, I'll be there, Mom," I said, placing my hand on top of hers. "I love you."
"You better. You're my only daughter after all."
I rolled my eyes then got up to throw my arms around her. "Not for long," I said.
She grunted as her arms circled me in return. "Stacia is a wonderful girl, and she already has a mother. I'm her coach."
"Soon to be stepmom."
"Well, I don't like the sound of that."
"Makes you think of Cinderella?"
"Exactly!"
"Mmm, you'll be a good one," I said then pointed a finger at her. "But just remember, she can't have you for keeps. I came first, and I'll end anyone who tries to take my place."
"So bloodthirsty," Dad said. "That's my Freya."
He kissed my head, and Mom just laughed.
"I think she's more excited about having you as a stepsister," my mother said. "Has she been in contact with you?"
Stepping back, she saw my frown and laughed again.
"I'll take that as a yes."
Yes, I'd gotten the messages from Stacia, asking if I want to look at dresses together, get our nails done, check out flowers and cake—honestly, I'd paused at that one—inquiring if I'd be bringing a plus one.
"Let's just say, you're not the only person I've been avoiding," I said.
"I knew it," Mom said.
I shrugged.
"You should answer her, Freya. I think she just wants to be your friend."
"Why?"
