“I’m kidding. If she’s happy then I’m happy.”
“Who are you and what have you done with my sister?”
Heather turned off the burner, pivoting to face her. “I’ve been doing some thinking. Mom’s always sacrificed for us, even if it meant not seriously dating and putting herself out there for a relationship. I don’t want her to miss an opportunity.”
“This wouldn’t be because you’re dating Allen, right?”
“What can I say?”
Sonia didn’t look convinced. She rested her elbows on the kitchen island.
“Don’t worry about Mom,” Heather said.
Sonia blew out her cheeks. “It’s just got me thinking. I'm happy for her, but it’s been the three of us for as long as I can remember. I hope this guy loves her.”
Heather walked over and wrapped her arms around her sister. “I’m scared too. I shouldn’t be, but—”
“Why can’t you be?”
Heather straightened and sat on a barstool. “I’ve always been the strong one. I know no one asked me to, but I couldn’t stand by and not help Mom. So I worked throughout high school and college. When
Dad left, I didn’t want the load to be all on her shoulders. She’s too great of a person.” She rubbed at her eyebrow.
Sonia took her sister’s hand. “I’m sure Mom didn’t want you to do that. She’s proud of us both. Perhaps we had to grow up faster than most kids, but don’t put that pressure on yourself.”
Heather dabbed at her eyes. “I know. I tried not to, but I couldn’t help it. I wanted Mom to know she could depend on someone.”
“She depends on both of us, but she’s not helpless.”
Heather bobbed her head. If she gained strength from anyone, it was her mother. “I know.”
“But…” Sonia bit her bottom lip.
“What?”
“What if this guy’s name is Harold? Or Bob?”
“What’s wrong with that?”
Sonia shrugged. “I don’t picture our mother with a man with that name. Is he bald? What does he do for a living?”
“We’ll find out soon enough. Until then...” Heather gestured to the pot on the stove. “You sure you don't mind giving me a lift?”
Sonia shook her head. “It's on the way home, anyway.”
“Thank you.” She caught her sister staring at her with a smile. “What?”
“Nothing. I'm happy for you.”
Heather hugged her sister tight.
***
Allen rushed to the door only to stub his toe on the coffee table. He hopped in place, as a groan escaped his lips. He needed to calm down, but Heather made his heart soar.
Regaining his bearings, he opened the door after the doorbell rang for a second time. Heather stood with a pot in her hands. Allen took it from her, taking care to use the towel underneath in case it was too hot. He waved at Sonia in her car, and she pulled out the driveway. He smiled at Heather, ushering her inside.
She didn’t wobble as much, but she was walking better with her knee. Soon their sessions would be over. She took off her coat, revealing her sweater dress. “Nice place.”