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Her phone pinged. “Oh, it’s Sam. She’s coming for a drink and can give me a lift home.”
I nodded but I didn’t move.
“Guess I’ll see you at work on Monday. Pick you up?”
“I’ve got Ryan’s ute while he’s sick.”
“Right. Of course. I’m looking forward to dance class again next week.”
“I’ve got training at the fire brigade shed that night so I cancelled.”
I nodded again, a tightness forming in my chest.
“You’ll come to my sister’s welcome home party, right? The whole practice was invited.”
“I call shotgun on the first dance with you, too.”
“Okay.” Her voice was soft. “We have the fundraising dinner coming up before then.”
“Then I’d like first dance with you at that as well.”
I stepped closer and did something I’d wanted to do since I’d arrived for the funeral. I pulled her gently into my arms and cocooned her against my chest, offering her sanctuary.
“I’m so sorry about Granny Lynn,” I murmured. “I really am.”
Stacey let out a deep sigh. We held each other, saying nothing, our embrace not about desire but comfort and support.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
She had hope in her sad blue eyes.
With Herculean strength, I let her go. Stacey swayed towards me. I tucked an errant strand of hair behind her ear.
I wanted to give her more hope.I could help her, something to help with her dream.After my best friend, Simon, had died, I had no direction, waking every day, reeling and angry. But now, I had the power to do something to help Stacey.
And to do that, I had to leave. If I touched her again, I wouldn’t let go.
“Take care tonight, Anastasia.”
I shoved my hands in my pockets and left.
17
STACEY
Ballydoon Community Group:
Malcolm posted 6.24 p.m.:
What’s happening with Granny Lynn’s place? Up for sale?
Claire commented: lovely house, but needs work
Jade commented: any enquiries should be forwarded to Raymond Solicitors
Donna commented: heard rumours she was loaded and has a hidden fortune
Ryan commented: Let’s not spread rumours about someone who’s just died.
