Page 159 of Where Roads Lead

“I know it might make it a lot worse,” Elsie said. “But can I go down there and talk to her?”

I stared at her like she was crazy.

“Why would you want to, after the way she’s been acting?”

“Because she’s allowed to hate me, but I think I’m also allowed to know why.” Elsie shrugged. “And the last time we had a one-on-one conversation, it wasn’t so bad. The only issue seems to be when other people are thrown into the mix.”

“You can do whatever you want,” I told her. “But she might not give you any answers.”

“I want to at least try.”

“You’re a bit of a people pleaser, huh?” I asked. “I wonder where that came from.”

“A gift from my parents, I expect.” Her smile was low and subdued, and I was hit with a wave of gratitude that she was here with me instead of them.

“Promise me,” I implored, “no matter what she says, you won’t let it get to you.”

She nodded, and I perched a thumb under her chin to tilt her face up.

“I mean it, Els. I know it’s hard to believe, but all of that, it wasn’t about you.”

“It feels like it was,” Elsie said softly.

I shook my head because I didn’t know how to make her understand.

“Ava’s always had…issues. I don’t know. It’s complicated.”

“Issues?”

“She grew up with us. You know that, right?” Elsie nodded. “Well, her parents weren’t—well, they weren’t ever around, really. She only had us, and I think she was always scared that someday we’d lock the door on her or something. It sort of made her feel like—I don’t know. Like she had to prove herself so we’d keep her around?”

Elsie mulled it over.

“Not that that was ever the case,” I was quick to assure. “It’s just what I picked up over the years. I might be wrong about it. But one thing’s for sure, Ava has always needed to be in control. Even if she burns herself out doing it. It’s the only way she ever feels okay.”

“Well, I can’t relate to that.” Elsie laughed lightly. “But I do think I understand it.”

“The two of you are just…really different,” I noted. “I don’t think she knows what to make of you.”

“Neither did you when we first met.” Elsie poked me. “And look at us now.”

I rolled my eyes, but couldn’t stop the smile.

“So, maybe there’s hope? For Ava and me?”

“I think you can win anyone over,” I told her honestly. “But whether she comes around or not doesn’t change how amazing you are.”

I tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, hoping she’d believe me.

Elsie softened and grabbed my hand.

“You say pretty things, Will Hughes.”

I shrugged.

“As long as you think I’m amazing, then I’ll try not to worry too much about anyone else.”

“Well, I do,” I told her. “But you don’t need me to tell you that either.”