Page 64 of Fake it for Keeps

“I know.”

But even as I said it, I wasn’t convinced. Because if Hallie was really just in it for the money, why had she looked so hurt when I’d pushed her away on Shelter Island? Why had she tried to comfort me during my nightmare instead of just rolling over and going back to sleep?

None of it made sense.

“I’m sorry,” I said suddenly, looking at Frankie. “For being an ass today. For the designs, for taking my shit out on everyone. You’re right. I approved those designs months ago and they’re good. I’ll tell Carson to move forward.”

Frankie smiled, relief flooding her features. “Thank you. That’s all I ask.”

“And thank you. For putting up with me. For caring even when I’m being impossible.”

“That’s what little sisters do.” She pulled me into another hug. “I love you, you stubborn idiot. And I just want you to be happy.”

“I know.”

“So be careful. Please. Guard your heart a little. Because I don’t think I can watch you break again.”

I held my sister tight, remembering all the times she’d been there for me. After Lauren died, when I could barely get out of bed. After our mother passed, when grief threatened to swallow us both. After Dad’s death, when I had to step into shoes I wasn’t sure I could fill.

She’d seen me at my worst. My weakest. My most broken.

And she’d loved me through all of it.

“I’ll be careful,” I promised.

We pulled apart, and Frankie wiped at her eyes.

I only allowed myself to have emotions when I was with Frankie and those occasions were few and far between. But I could admit it did feel good to have that tiny little pressure release.

I told myself I could make it through to July. I had to. Falling apart was not an option.

One day, I knew all the running was going to catch up to me. I was probably going to end up in a padded room, but until then, I would keep putting one foot in front of the other and smile for the cameras.