Summer of Second Chances - Andrea Hurst Page 0,118

over to greet them, her tail wagging briskly.

"So how did everything go?" he asked. "It didn't last very long. I barely made it to Redd’s and back before I got your message.”

Alice took the box from his hand. “What did you bring us?”

“Steph and Josh thought you might need a little cheering up. They gifted you a box of cookie ice cream sandwiches.”

Shelby peeked inside. “Perfect timing. Let’s take them to the table.”

Between bites, Shelby relayed to Theo what had happened, leaving out some of the gritty details. The dogs lay on the kitchen floor, content to munch on some of Alice’s doggie treats.

"Would you like me to try to talk to Dana? Or Gus?" Theo asked.

Shelby shook her head. “Thanks, Theo. You’re a good friend. But I don't think that's a very good idea.” She wasn’t sure anything would help at this point. And she didn’t want to put Theo in the line of fire. Her mind raced, along with her heart. “If you don’t mind,” she said, “I’m going to go to my room to lie down for a while.”

“Of course,” Alice said.

Shelby’s bed was a welcome sight. She plopped down, curled up on her side, and stared out the window. This was her very own room and she felt safe here. She wished she could speak to Logan in person, but she knew he was working late and had a family commitment tonight. Instead, she texted him. It was rough. My mom is staying in town tonight to think things over. Should know more tomorrow.

I’m sorry, Logan texted. Let me know as soon as you know more. Miss you.

It was going to be a long night ahead waiting to hear back from her mother. But for now, she burrowed under the covers and wanted nothing more than a long nap.

Chapter 40

By nine in the morning, there had been no word yet from Dana when and if they would be coming back over today. Shelby continued her regular routine and covered her dog walking clients. Everyone had asked her how she was doing, and the dogs had been extra affectionate with their kisses and snuggles. Logan had texted early to see if she’d heard anything yet and offered to come over if she needed him. When she returned home a few hours later, her grandmother offered to make something to eat, but Shelby’s stomach was still in knots.

"Have you heard anything yet?" Shelby asked.

Alice shook her head. "Not a word.”

"I wish she would at least let us know if they’re still in town,” Shelby said.

At Shelby’s feet, Scarlett rolled over for a belly rub.

“You sweetie.” She stooped to the floor and ran her fingers through the curly, soft poodle hair. She couldn't stand the thought of not seeing all her furry friends again.

Dana’s comments about Logan had really gotten to her, and even made Shelby doubt him for a minute. But she knew in her heart that what she had with him was real. No one knew how long anything would last, but it did not affect her decision. She was staying no matter what Dana did or said. She didn’t think her mother would resort to physically kidnapping her and causing a scene, but she couldn’t be entirely sure.

Without notice, the sound of a car pulling up in front of the house jolted Shelby from the floor to the window. It was Dana. Gus walked over to open the door for Dana and reached out his hand to help her out. Dana stood for a moment and looked toward the house. With a swift motion she tried to get back in the truck, but Gus took her in his arms. They spoke for a moment before Gus nodded toward the front door. Dana turned and walked up the path, her hand in his.

Alice was already up to answer the door. “You ready?” she asked.

Shelby nodded and her grandmother escorted them into the house.

Her mother’s eyes were red-rimmed with dark circles under them. And for once, Dana wasn’t in full makeup and perfect hair. It had not been a great night for all of them, it seemed. Dana seemed glued in place and didn’t move.

Alice, her face lined with concern, suggested they all sit down in the living room. Shelby stayed standing with a clear view of the door and her mother. At first no one spoke. Then Dana glanced up at Shelby. "I can't say it was an easy night. Thank goodness for Gus,” she said, looking