The Wonder of Now by Beck Jamie

Author:Beck, Jamie
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781542044325
Published: 2019-09-09T16:00:00+00:00

Peyton opted against spiky heels, which would get caught in the cobblestone at the mews. She twirled in front of the mirror, the paisley boho dress swooshing as she spun. Her foobs looked surprisingly realistic through the dress’s deep keyhole neckline. Bell sleeves added another hint of flirtation, as did the short skirt. She paired it with a square-heeled ankle boot and thick oval gold-and-pearl hoop earrings. But the most surprising accessory was a genuine smile, something she hadn’t seen much of lately when looking in the mirror.

This outfit was something she’d wear on a date with Mitch if he invited her on one. Which he hadn’t and might not ever—even if she summoned the courage to be bold enough for romance.

Her phone rang, surprising her. Steffi?

“Hey, Steffi. What’s up?” She sat on the edge of the mattress and finger combed her hair. Steffi had been the other third of their childhood triumvirate, the Lilac Lane League, and one of the first people Peyton had told about her diagnosis.

“Up since dawn to take Emmy to swim team before I head to the lumberyard. We saw Logan and Claire last night, so I thought I’d check in and see how you’re holding up.”

“Pretty good. Ready to sleep in my own bed, though.”

“Really? You used to hate to come home.”

“I used to have more energy. And after all I’ve been through, as much as I still enjoy exploring new places or revisiting old favorites, I keep feeling like there is something more I should be doing with myself. I need downtime to figure out what that is.”

“Who are you and what have you done with my friend?” Steffi chuckled.

“Ha ha.”

“Kidding. I hear you, though. Trauma can make you see things in a new light. Look at what I did after the attack. Quit my job, moved home, started my own business . . . but the biggest risk I took was with Ryan. That’s the final piece that changed my life for the better and gave me the most fulfillment.”

“And I’m thrilled for you that it all worked out. You and Claire both seem so settled and happy.”

“Claire is floating around like a helium balloon these days.”

“You have no idea how ecstatic that makes me.” Peyton clutched a fist to her heart, eyes closed in prayer. “Thank God she found love after Todd.”

“Thank God Todd is out of the picture for both of you.” Steffi’s hatred for him hardened her voice.

Peyton closed her eyes. She understood why everyone hated Todd and assumed she had grown to hate him, too. Yet despite her revulsion, a little grief lingered, probably because she’d handled his rejection in silence, knowing she’d get no sympathy after how she and Todd had hurt Claire. “Yes, that too.”

After a slight hesitation, Steffi said, “Logan hinted at something brewing between you and your PR guy. I think you owe me the scoop after how you grilled me about Ryan when I first moved back home.”

Oh Lord. Her brother kept thinking

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