Healing Hearts (Hope River #3) - Margaret McHeyzer Page 0,77

Tree Parade finished so Hope and River can relax on their honeymoon.”

“Nothing you’ve said is a cause for concern. So, what’s the problem?”

I open my mouth to give Aunt May a lame excuse that even I don’t believe. “I suppose I never paid any attention to my parents’ relationship growing up.” I hold my hand up to adjust what I’m saying. “I know Dad’s really stepped up now, because he didn’t realize how bad it was for me. The reality is, I wasn’t a significant enough part of their lives to warrant their attention, and the only time I saw them in the same room was at dinner. But now there’s Charlie, who puts me first every single time and never pressures me to do or be anything I’m not. I’m so scared this is all going to come crashing down.” I sigh. “I was never abused or beaten, but I was rejected, and I think that hurts the same.”

“It’ll come crashing down if that’s what you’re looking for, Tabby. Live in the moment, it’s the only one we’re sure to have.”

“I think I love him.”

“Pffft. Really? Think you love him?”

“What do you mean?”

“The moment that boy came into our lives, you fell for him so hard. You’ve changed, Tabby, and it’s all thanks to Charlie for pushing you to open up and be more than what you’ve ever been before.”

“You think I’ve changed?”

“Nope. I know you’ve changed. You’re a wonderful woman. Embrace it. If Charlie makes you feel something, grab hold of him, and for the love of God, don’t let him go.” I smile, secretly happy Aunt May adores Charlie. “How many times have you kissed him?”

“Just the once. He told me he wouldn’t have sex with me until I kissed him. I kissed him, and he still won’t have sex with me.” Aunt May bursts into laughter. “I know, I’m telling you things I really shouldn’t.”

“Oh come on. I’m not a prude, I’ve had my fair share of fun with men, and some women.”

My mouth falls open, and my eyes widen as I slowly turn to look at her before returning my gaze to the road. “You’ve been with women?”

“It was the seventies. Threesomes were a thing.”

“You’ve had a threesome?”

“Threesomes,” she corrects with pride.

I make a fist and hold it out to Aunt May. She looks at it, then realizes I’m waiting for her to fist bump me. When she does, I say, “You rock, Aunt May!”

“Ah.” She flicks her hand at me again. “You know, just because I didn’t marry the man I love, it doesn’t mean I didn’t have my fair share of fun. I still love him with everything I have, but I made a vow to myself to enjoy the life I was given until he and I meet again.” Aww, how beautiful.

We get to the town center, and I find Lex, one of Jake’s deputies standing to the side where the street has been blocked off. I wind down my window and beckon Lex over. “Hey, Lex, can you let me through so I can get Aunt May as close as possible?”

“Hey, Tabitha. Hi Gran.” Lex waves. “Yeah, sure. Jake’s saved a spot for you outside of Elle’s café. Just park the car there.”

“Thank you, Lex,” Aunt May calls. He tips his head, then jogs ahead so he can move the barricade and allow us through.

I’m careful to drive slowly, and not hit anyone, but thankfully everyone sees my car and steps out of the way. As Lex described, Jake’s out in front of Elle’s café, and he directs me where to park. When I turn the car off, he’s by Aunt May’s door, opening it for her. “Gran, you’re looking really good. Hey, Tabitha.”

“Hey. Her walker is in the trunk.” I pop the trunk from inside, and Jake retrieves the walker. He unfolds it, and rolls it to Aunt May.

“Thank you, Jacob.” Aunt May is getting better at being self-sufficient, though I do think it’ll take her longer to be able to move freely.

She walks over to her usual spot, and I take the platter I’ve made and place it on the table, along with the other dishes people have been bringing. “Do you want a coffee?”

“Yes, darling.”

Before I enter Elle’s café, I look around for Charlie, but can’t see him. “Hi Elle,” I call when I get inside.

“Tabitha, how are you?”

“I’m okay. Need a hand with anything?”

“I think I’m okay.” She looks outside. “Ah, May’s here. Does she want a