Page 10 of Dreaming Without Heartache

“That’s fine,” Kara says, nonchalantly. I’m surprised she answered me at all.

“Is that okay?” I ask Sam.

“Of course.” Sam looks at me briefly before turning her attention back to whipping up the potatoes.

I remove the glass dish from the oven and place it on a round pot coaster. I remember when Annie got these from the craft fair that she had dragged me to. I thought I’d be so bored, but I actually had a good time. What I wouldn’t do to have one more craft fair with her.

I finish up the green beans and place everything on the island on the pot coasters. “Girls come and fix your plates.” Kara avoids eye contact with me at all costs. Maisie has her hands out.

“Let me fix it for you, honey.” I put two chicken tenders on her plate, a scoop of beans, and some mashed potatoes, then hand it to Maisie. “Walk slowly to the patio.” I pour a glass of milk and follow her out, holding the door as she moves carefully. I smile, watching her set the plate on the table. Maisie looks at me, her face breaking into a wide, toothy grin. I kiss the top of her head.

Kara’s talking to Sam when I walk in but stops the moment she sees me. She grabs her plate and briskly walks outside without saying a word. Sam looks sad. I’m not sure who it’s for—Kara or me. I don’t say anything as I fix my plate.

“She was just saying that you took her phone away and that she wasn’t smoking.” Sam stands at the end of the counter with her plate full of food.

“Did she also tell you she lies?” I place my plate on the table and walk past her to Bill’s office. I pour another drink for me and bring the bottle of wine for Sam. I don’t ask if she wants more. I refill the almost-empty glass.

“Thank you,” Sam says, shyly.

“Let’s join the girls.” I lead the way outside, not caring about Kara right now. I slide into the seat next to Maisie while Sam sits next to Kara. We all eat, even Kara, while we enjoy the setting sun.

Chapter Five

Steven showed up after we finished dinner and is chowing down on the leftovers. We have the fire lit and are sitting around it while watching Kara and Maisie chase lightning bugs. It isn’t completely dark yet, but the night is upon us and there is a muggy chill in the air.

I’ve been pretty quiet since dinner. Steven and Sam have gotten to know each other well during their short time together. I’m currently leaning back in my chair, relaxing to the easy conversation. I’m feeling a little lonely. Funny how that can be even though people are around. It has nothing to do with them. I know it’s me.

“Look, Aunt Allie.” Maisie rushes over to show me all the lightning bugs in her mason jar. “I’ve caught more than Kara.” She places the jar on my lap and leans down to count. “There are six of them.”

“Wow, kiddo.” I pull her onto my lap and hug her from behind as she holds her jar tightly. “Good job.” My voice betrays me, something heavier slipping through.

“They’re pretty, aren’t they?” Maisie says, staring into the jar. I prop my chin on her shoulder and stare with her.

“Very,” Sam says, from across the fire. I look over to see her watching us. She has her legs pulled up in the chair, with a blanket thrown across her bare tanned skin. It’s cooler tonight than it has been, which is nice for the fire.

“Should I let them go?” Maisie asks, never taking her eyes off the jar.

“I think that’s a good idea. That way they can keep our yard lit up at night. That’s their job, you know.”

Maisie hops off my lap. “Uncle Steven, would you help me?”

“I would love to, baby girl.” He takes Maisie’s open hand, and they walk out toward the back fence.

Kara walks over. “I’m going to shower.” She reaches down and gives Sam a hug, then whispers something in her ear. I stare at them through the flames. Kara’s blond hair is tinted by the firelight.

“Goodnight, honey,” Sam says, releasing Kara from the hug.

Kara walks past me without even a glance my way.

“Kara,” I say, loud enough for her to stop. I don’t turn around. “Please take your sister with you and get her bath started.”

“Maisie,” Kara huffs out. “Come on!”

“All right!” Maisie gives Steven the empty mason jar and runs through the yard. She comes to a stop in front of me. “Can Uncle Steven read me a book after my bath?”

“I’ll ask him. But don’t forget to wash here.” I tug on her right ear. She giggles. “And here.” I tickle her belly. She pushes my hand away as she laughs loudly and then rushes to Kara.

“Uncle Steven,” Maisie calls out from the door. “You have to say yes.”