Zoe cleared her throat. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
She brushed a few curls behind her ear. “I need to get going.”
“Have classes started yet?” he asked. She only looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “My aunt mentioned you’re taking classes online. I didn’t stalk you or anything.”
The corners of her mouth raised. “They start next week.”
“That’s when the band leaves. Any chance you can make one of our shows?”
“Probably not. I’ll keep in touch with my brother.”
“Too bad. It... would have been nice to have you,” he said.
Her eyes widened slightly. “Maybe... next time.” She backed away from him. “I have to go.”
“Thanks for talking with me.” He planted his feet on the ground. He wanted her to stay.
Zoe waved and walked away.
Alex released a deep breath. How would he win her over? He didn’t know, but he couldn’t give up now.
Chapter 8
Zoe cracked the door to Celine’s bedroom. She walked back into Lisa’s living room and plopped on the couch. Then she clicked on another lamp. Lisa was working late again, so Zoe turned on the television.
Her phone buzzed on the coffee table. Zoe smiled at her mother’s face on the screen. If she didn’t answer, her mother would worry. Zoe wouldn’t put her through that—not again.
“How’s the new job?” her mother asked.
“I’m getting adjusted,” Zoe said.
“I’m glad, but make sure it doesn’t interfere with—”
“Mom, I’ve already told them that. It won’t affect my studies. If I need time off, I’ll let them know or I can study here in between watching Celine.”
Her mother sighed. “You’re doing well, and I’m so proud of you.” Her mother paused. Was there more she wanted to say?
“Mom? Mom, are you alright?” Zoe edged to the end of the couch.
“I just…”
Zoe rose from the couch and walked to the corner of the living room. A scented candle burned beside her as her skin itched with anticipation.
“I know you’ve made progress, Zoe. I try not to worry, but I do. The fact that you’re making changes shows me you’re on the right track. Finishing your degree. It… just got me thinking.”
“You can trust my judgment now, you know.” She kept her voice low, so she wouldn’t disturb the baby.
Her mother sighed once more. Zoe squeezed her eyes shut. Would this be a moment of truth between mother and daughter?
“I was so heartbroken when we lost Tony. I almost thought Jackson was a goner too since he was in the car. That night with you Zoe… I just don’t want to lose another child. You and Jackson are all I have left.”
Zoe covered her face with one hand. The lump in her throat increased. This was the most her mother shared with her about her grief over Tony.
Her mother sniffled. Was she crying? “I’m sorry. We’re working in our own ways to move on.”
“I know.” Perhaps her mother had forgiven her. Zoe didn’t expect it overnight, but at least some progress was made.