A Family Reunited by Dorie Graham

Author:Dorie Graham
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub, pdf
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2013-05-11T07:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

ALEX PEERED THROUGH the entryway of the brightly lit common room, but her mother was nowhere to be seen. Frowning, she moved toward the wide French doors leading onto the patio near the enclosed garden. Had her mother ventured out into the heat?

She found her sitting on a shaded bench, a surprising breeze ruffling her hair, her eyes closed and her face turned up and smiling. Alex slowed her approach, unsure if she should interrupt her mother’s blissful moment. As if sensing her, her mother opened her eyes and spread her arms wide.

“Alex,” she said. “It’s so good to see you. Come give me a hug.”

Tears stung Alex’s eyes as she slipped onto the bench and her mother enfolded her in her embrace. “Mom, I’m so happy to see you.”

Her mother held her close and rubbed her back. “I can’t believe how you’ve grown, honey.”

She pulled back and tucked Alex’s hair behind her ears. “I like the shorter length, though what does Chase have to say about it?”

“Chase? He really hasn’t said anything.”

“He is taking you to prom, right?” Light danced in her mom’s blue eyes. “We’ll have to find you a dress and I’m sure we can find a way to put your hair up that will look nice.”

Prom? Disappointment flickered through Alex, but she shook it off. At least she wasn’t some stranger today. She dredged up a smile. “I’m sure we can figure something out.”

“He’s such a nice boy. I’m so glad he finally came to his senses and noticed what was right there under his nose all these years.” She laughed lightly. “Of course you were too young for him to date most of that time, but anyone with eyes knew it was inevitable.”

Alex gripped her mother’s hands. Should she ask her about the affair? Should she ruin what might be the last semi lucid visit they shared? “Mom, do you remember Chase’s aunt Rena?”

She again laughed. “I think I remember my best friend.”

“I know you two spend a lot of time together.” She cocked her head. “Where’s your favorite place to go with her? Who do you hang out with, besides Rena?”

“Did you know we went to school together? Rena and I go way back.” She shook her head and her smile faded. “We like to go dancing. Your father doesn’t care to dance, but I decided that wouldn’t stop me from kicking up my heels.”

Shifting on the bench, she faced Alex more fully. “Listen, honey, I want to talk to you about Chase.”

“Mom, Chase and I...”

“Relationships are hard and they require a lot of work. I know you’re frustrated with his go-with-the-flow attitude, but I do think Chase will make something of himself one of these days. True, he lacks direction, but he’s come such a long way. He’s doing great considering all the drama he has at home.” She patted Alex’s hand. “Cut him some slack, okay? I think he’ll surprise you. When you find someone who cares about you the way Chase does you should hold on tight to that.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.