Page 47 of Rumor Has It

Chapter 10

Mackenzie

I glance back at my sleeping daughter as the sun rises over the coastal waters. Her world is about to change, and I send up a silent pray it’s for the best. It’s all I’ve ever wanted for her; I love her with all my heart.

Turning my focus back on the road, I gasp when the big green sign comes into view. ‘Welcome to Cherry Grove’. All I can think about is whether it’ll be welcoming for us both.

“Here we go, baby girl.” I release a long held breath. I’m thinking it’s been about ten years since I breathed that easily. “Please, be good to us.”

“What is it, Momma?” My beautiful child with curly chestnut hair and big, milk chocolate eyes jogs me from my thoughts.

“We’re here, my love.” My stomach knots. “We’re in Cherry Grove.”

She stretches her neck, peering through the window. “So pretty. I can’t wait to hug Grandpa and Grampy!”

“Me too, kid.” I chew my lip as I make the turn headed to my old home. “I bet Grandpa has a big breakfast ready.”

Her face lights up. “Good, I’m starving.”

“You are?” A street sign catches me by surprise, Nixon’s Crossroads, and I pause longer than I should.

“Are you okay, Momma?”

“Oh, yeah.” I bat my lashes, banishing the building emotions. “I’m excited for Grandpa’s biscuits and gravy!”

My eyes flicker back to her bouncing in the back seat, as I come to a stop at a light. Turning my focus back to the road, a car passes by and I do a double take. My heart pounds against my chest, stealing my breath away.

I’m frozen, staring at the vehicle long after it’s passed. The car I didn’t recognize, but it was the passenger who seemed more than familiar. I shake my head with a giggle. Now I’m seeing ghosts.

“Momma, the light is green.” A sweet voice from the back seat pulls me from my thoughts.

“Maybe you should drive. I think I’m seeing things.”

“Okay!” she chirps.

I can’t hold back my laughter; this child owns me. “Maybe next time. We’re almost there.”

“Yay!” she squeals.

I bite my lip, peeking in my rearview mirror. “After we eat, we’ll go check out our new house.”

“Only if I can pick out my bedroom.” She holds her finger up, making her point.

“Deal!” I grin. “I’m also thinking, we need to plan a party. Like, we’re here! You’re welcome.”

“Yesssss!” She dances in her seat. “You da mom bomb!”

I roll my eyes. “Now I’m the mom bomb?”

“Always, Momma.” She giggles.

“I’ll remind you of that in a few weeks when we’re fighting over homework.” I glance back at her as I flip my signal light on. “We’re here!”

“Where … is here?” She gazes out the window when we come to a stop, just in time for my dad to come bursting out his front door. “Grandpa?”

“Well, don’t just sit there.” I turn, saying wide-eyed, “Go get him!”

Her seatbelt is off, and she’s out the door before I can say another word. My dad, Ken, catches her mid-stride and swings her around. Grandpa Mack waves from the steps as I climb out, returning his welcome.