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“I was. I am. Getting established after our move was easier said than done.” She puts the car in drive and begins the trek toward my house.
I feel equal parts hope and dread. Hope because maybe I can be free of the constant intrusions and pep talks. Dread because my body isn’t what it was the last time Livy saw it. And because I’ve never had to view my house through the lens of walker widths, slip-proof showers, and stair climbing.
Willa continues, “We were in DC. We moved back in December. That’s more than enough time to build new or reengage old clientele, but morning sickness. Whoever saysmorningis lying. Twenty-four-hour-a-day nausea for weeks and weeks. Moving into a new house. Updating what we need to make it a home. Exton launching his business. They’re all first-world problems. I’m not making them more than that, but I haven’t reestablished myself yet. And he”—she points to her belly—“will debut in a little over a month, so it is what it is right now. Do you have any ink?”
“I have one idea. I’ve had it for a while, but I haven’t fully committed. And it’s not a partial commitment kind of idea.”
“Well, if you ever want to talk about it or play around with sketches or placement, let’s get together. No pressure. Just to talk.”
“I’d like that.”
The car ride dissolves into easy conversation about Exton’s business ventures, Kimpton’s arrival, and Braxton’s upcoming birthday. And before we know it, Willa pulls through the gates to my neighborhood and rolls to a stop at the front door.
I want to watch Livy’s face, but I don’t. I’d have to turn in my seat, and it just seems weird.
“When was the last time you were here?” Livy asks.
“February.”
“Our wedding?” Willa asks.
I simply nod and slide out of the passenger’s seat, and open the back door, extending a hand for Pix.
It’s a risk every time. I never know if I’ll have the strength or balance to catch her. I want to. I will do everything in my power to, but there are no guarantees. It’s a most impotent feeling not knowing if I’ll be able to be the man she deserves when she needs me.
I run a hand down her arm. “Let me grab your crutches.”
I bring them around to her and usher her into my house. The moment we walk in, two things happen at once. One, Livy’s face lights up, and, two, I exhale. I can breathe again. I forgot how much peace this place brings me.
There is no question that this is it for me. And that settles in my bones in a way that anchors my shifting soul.
Me:Accept the offer on the Florida place. I’ll need to clean out my personal belongings. Can George help with that? Otherwise, I’m good to let it go.
Emberleigh:I’m on it. Will keep you posted.
Me:Thanks, Emberleigh. My brother is a lucky man to have you. I am too.
“What is it?” Livy asks.
“What?”
She reaches up between my brows and smooths a finger from there up my forehead. “Your brow is furrowed, and you have a serious look on your face.”
“I’m trying to be smart and make good decisions. It’s way more fun to be irresponsible and make bad ones.” I wink.
She waggles her brows. “Truer words were never spoken.” She looks around the open entryway. “Will you show me around?”
“You’ll be shocked to hear I’m going to find a bathroom,” Willa throws out.
“Right there.” I point at the powder room.
“Well, this is the foyer,” I begin dramatically, talking to Livy.
She smacks my arm.
“But this is what sold me.” I round the corner to the two-story, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Colorado River on what’s become Lake Travis. The view includes a pool that looks like an infinity pool, but it’s just the angle of the property.
“Wow.”
