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“No. But it also wouldn’t hurt you to get out and live a little.”
“And partaking in work gossip is living?” I counter.
“Not what I meant and you know it. I’m just saying, you act way too old for your age most days. Well, now that I think about it, you have for as long as I’ve known you.”
“Guess that’s what happens when you’re forced to become the parent before you’ve hit puberty.” I give her a sad smile.
“I’m sorry,” she starts.
“Don’t be. It’s not your fault.”
“I just wish I would have known about you sooner. Maybe then I could have done something...”
“Claire.” I stop her from saying more. “Don’t do that to yourself.”
“I just can’t help but think...”
“Stop,” I cut her off again. “You found me. You saved me. In more ways than one. You took me in when you barely knew me. You clothed me and fed me until I found a job. You put a roof over my head. You gave me a chance at a normal life. I don’t know where I would be without you.”
“You’re family.”
“And that’s what family does for each other,” I repeat the words that she’s said to me more times than I could ever possibly count.
“Exactly.” She smiles. “I’m sorry if sometimes I stick my nose where I shouldn’t or if it feels like I’m pushing you. I just want to see you put yourself out there. I want you to have a chance to be happy.”
“I am happy. Despite everything I think I’m happier than I’ve ever been. And yes, a large part of that has to do with Abel,” I say what I already know she’s thinking. “But it also has to do with you. And Heather. It has to do with realizing just how lucky I am to have people like you in my life. It has to do with all of this.” I gesture around the room. “Because I’m alive when a few weeks ago I didn’t know if I would be.”
“I’d do anything for you. I hope you know that.”
“I do.” I smile. “And I hope you know that goes both ways.”
“Even when I’m acting like a pushy big sister.”
“Even then.” I pop a big chunk of breadstick into my mouth seconds before giving her a toothy grin.
