Page 148 of Luci’s Lullaby

“Today? I could meet Emerson or ask her to bring Luci here.” I rub the pain in my chest.

She releases a long sigh. “He said, of course.”

“That’s all.” I bite back the tears. “He didn’t say anything else?”

“Does it matter?” Reese cuts me deep.

I flick the escaped tear off my cheek. “I suppose not.”

“Charlee, I’m not sure anyone can say anything to either of you that hasn’t been said, but the fact you’re both miserable says so much. You should try talking to each other.” Reese played so nice just now, all of it I already know.

I hold myself together with what little strength I have left. “I’m afraid. As much as I love him, I can’t get past what happened and the fact it could again.”

“You’re allowing your fears to dictate your future. Trust me when I tell you it never turns out how you think. If missing a lifetime with Alden is worth it, there’s nothing else I can say.” Her voice quivers.

I swallow past the knot in my throat. “I’m still so unsure about us; will my love be enough to get us through. It wasn’t before.”

“Call Em and arrange a time. He’ll have her ready,” she says softly.

I sniffle. “I will, thank you.”

I hang up and dial Emerson, and she picks up immediately.

“Hello.” She sounds so happy.

“Hey, girl. I suppose you know why I’m calling.” I snicker.

“I do. Alden said anytime, you name it,” she exclaims.

My breath hitches. “Now, I miss her so much.”

“I’ll go get her and bring her over,” she says.

I swallow hard. “Thank you.” I end the call feeling so good, so why doesn’t my heart?

I pace the floor, watching the clock. It feels as if it’s been forever since I spoke to her. It’s not like we live a hundred miles apart, he’s right down the road. I run my hand through my hair again.

“You’re going to go bald,” my mom says.

“Probably.” I bite the corner of my lip as I watch the road by my house.

I glance at the clock and hear something. I whip my head around to see Emerson walking toward me with my girl. I almost take the door from its hinges running to her.

My arms outstretched, I have her pressed against my chest before I can take another breath. “Oh, my sweet girl. I’ve missed you so very much.” I’m overcome, and my knees begin to buckle.

“Charlee, come on, let’s get y’all inside.” Emerson walks with us to be my eyes because I can’t see through the tears.

“I’m sorry.” I snub. “I’ve missed them.”

Emerson’s eyes snap to mine. “You mean, her. You’ve missed her.”

“Yes, of course. I meant her.” I dry my face, staring at our perfect girl. “She’s growing so fast.”

“She is and babbles night and day.” Emerson grins.

“I heard a recording of it, she can say mom.” I beam to which Luci rewards me.

“Mmm-mom.” She giggles. “Ddd-dada.”