“Liv, can I talk to you for a minute?” she asked.
“Sure.” Olivia turned to Carol. “I’ll be right back.”
“Okay.” Carol absently studied the board as she gripped her black checker.
Leah’s heart pinched. It didn’t matter how many times she saw her mom like this, she would never get used to it. Her mother was her everything—the sun in the center of her universe. She’d never known her dad. Her mom had had her in college and the man who was Leah’s biological father hadn’t been interested in a relationship with Carol, much less in being a father.
Leah looked him up once, but she had no desire to contact him. In her mind, he had abandoned her mother, and that was unforgiveable. For years she’d blamed him for being the reason her mom had never shown any interest in dating—until she’d discovered the true reason.
Leah pushed the unwelcome thought away. All that mattered was that she would never abandon her mother. Carol was the best mom any girl could hope for. She was unendingly kind and positive, even after working her long night-shifts as a nurse. She’d always been there for Leah, and now Leah would be there for her.
Olivia followed Leah into the kitchen and Leah turned to face her. “How have things really been going?” she asked, prying her friend with a gaze.
Liv frowned. “Honestly, she was doing really well until this morning. I was hoping she would still be lucid when you came home. I’m sorry it didn’t work out that way.”
Leah bit her lip, willing herself not to be sad. Her mom would have lucid moments again. “Thanks for taking such good care of her, Liv,” she said, touching her arm. “I know this is a lot. How are things going for you? Is it too much?”
Olivia shook her head. “Piper and Drew stayed with her for a little while last night so I could get a break. When Carol’s lucid, she really is so pleasant and easy to be around. I love spending time with her.”
“I’m glad Piper and Drew helped you out,” Leah said. Piper was one of Leah’s best friends and she’d recently begun dating Olivia’s brother Drew. They were great to help out in a pinch, but Leah didn’t want to burden her friends with too much. “I can look into hiring someone else so that you can get more breaks when I have long trips,” Leah offered, still worried her mother’s care was too much for one person.
Olivia shrugged. “Let’s see how the next trip goes. Like I said, when she’s lucid, it’s no trouble at all. I almost feel guilty having you pay me while I stay here and take my online courses.”
“But when she’s not lucid,” Leah countered, “I’m sure I’m not paying you enough.” She squinted. “And according to the doctors, those good days will eventually come fewer and farther between.”
Olivia shook her head. “Let’s think positive. I know you would feel better if you’d seen how sharp she was the past few days. For now, we’ll just take things as they come.”
Leah’s throat thickened, and she pulled Olivia in for a hug. “What would I do without you?”
Liv squeezed back. “I’m glad I can help. You take on too much.” She pulled away, her eyes curious. “Do you have any fun plans while you’re home?”
Leah cringed inwardly. Why was everyone always asking her that? The question was a painful reminder of how pathetically nonexistent her social life was. She forced a bright smile. “Patty is coming to watch Mom tomorrow night so I can hang out with my girls. You’re coming, right?”
“Definitely.” Liv’s mouth twisted and she pretended to inspect her nails. “Just as a heads up . . . it sounds like Savannah may be inviting a few guys to the get-together as well.”
“Oh, no. Don’t tell me.”
Liv gave an apologetic shrug. “I wasn’t supposed to say anything, but I didn’t want you to be caught off guard.”
Leah rolled her eyes. “You’re in for it too, you know. No single friend of Savannah’s is safe. She won’t rest until she’s seen us all married off.”
“And planned our weddings,” Liv added with a laugh.
“Maybe that’s why she took up matchmaking, for job security,” Leah teased. The truth was, Savannah was a brilliant wedding planner. She was highly sought-after, and when her boss retired, she would likely take over the company. But her matchmaking skills were another story. Leah suspected it was her way of coping after being left at the alter two years ago. It was a tragic event and Savannah had sworn off dating ever since—shortly taking up matchmaking for her friends instead.
“I was really looking forward to some girl time,” Leah complained. “Why did Savannah have to go and ruin it?”
“Maybe it won’t be so bad,” Olivia hedged. “Savannah promised it will just be a casual group thing, and she’s convinced these guys are ‘exactly our type.’”
Leah was about to point out that Savannah always said that, but stopped herself when she noticed the hopefulness in Olivia’s expression. She was getting over her own heartache. Her last boyfriend had broken her heart, so the fact that she was open to the idea of a blind date was encouraging. Leah didn’t want to be the one to burst her bubble. She sighed. “Yeah . . . maybe it won’t be so bad.” She smiled for good measure, hoping it looked convincing.
Olivia’s face relaxed. “At the very least it should be entertaining.”
“No doubt about that.” She held back a grimace, already dreading the small talk she’d have to make with whomever Savannah pegged as her “perfect match.” It wasn’t often Leah wished she were in a relationship, but suddenly she felt a tug of regret that she didn’t have a date to bring to her friends’ gathering, someone to save her from what was sure to be an awkward evening.
Chapter Four
Mitch pulled into the driveway of his parents’ home; the same two-story he’d grown up in. The Denver suburb neighborhood never seemed to change, and the familiarity was comforting. He loved flying to new places and experiencing different cultures and climates, but there was nothing like coming home.
Mitch grabbed the bag of sodas and snacks he’d bought at the nearby market. He’d been sure to include a package of black licorice for Lucas. Personally, he thought it was nasty, but Lucas couldn’t get enough of the stuff.
He smiled as he made his way up the walk, enjoying the sound of the crickets and the smell of fresh-cut grass in the yard. Summer was fast approaching. Maybe it was lame that he wasn’t going out on a Friday night, but he was grateful to spend some quality time with his younger brother. Lucas was seventeen years old, a full decade younger than Mitch, but they’d always been close.
Mitch couldn’t understand why Lucas spent so many weekends at home. A handsome, talented kid like him should be out with friends or on a date. Not sitting home watching Star Wars. He shook his head, forcing the worry away. His brother wanted to spend time with him, and that was all that mattered.
He walked into the house and was instantly greeted by his Australian Shepherd, Lando. “Hey, there buddy.” He crouched to give his dog a hug. Even though Lando technically belonged to Mitch, Lucas loved him and offered to watch him while Mitch worked. It was a win-win for everyone.
Mitch heard the TV going in the den so he made his way in there with Lando on his heels. Lucas and his parents were watching TV. He barely even noticed the closed captioning on the screen, he was so used to seeing it there. “Did you start without me?” he jokingly accused, using sign language.
“Hey there.” His mom jumped up and gave him a hug. “How’s my favorite pilot?”
He squeezed her back. “I’m good. We just got back from Fort Lauderdale this afternoon.”
She pulled away and smiled. “Lucas told me. He’s always keeping tabs on your flights and schedule. Thanks for coming tonight. He’s missed you.”
“I’ve missed you guys too,” Mitch signed now that his hands were free again. He turned to his dad who rose from his chair to give him a hug.
“Welcome back, son.” He gave him a clap on the back before pulling away.
“Thanks. How did the repair on that Hummer go? Were
the customers happy?” Mitch asked. His dad owned a body shop and car lot in Denver which kept him busy.
“I’m not sure any job would be to their liking, but they finally picked it up on Tuesday.” His dad sighed, looking tired.
“I’m sorry they were so difficult.” Mitch continued the conversation in sign language without even thinking about it. “There isn’t a better body shop in Colorado.” He wasn’t biased in his praise. His dad had built an admiral reputation for himself and his business, but there was always the occasional disgruntled customer to deal with.
Charlie Harrison ran a hand down his face. “It was a long week. I’m hoping to take the Cessna out for a bit tomorrow. You interested in coming along?”
“Of course,” Mitch signed. His dad owned a small private airplane and he loved any opportunity to fly with him. He turned to Lucas, who had moved from the couch to stand beside him. “As long as you’re coming along too?”
“Depends on who’s flying,” Lucas signed back, throwing a teasing look to his dad. “Last time Dad’s landing wasn’t so good.”
“Hey!” Mr. Harrison exclaimed while signing at the same time. “It was windy.”
Lucas rolled his eyes and turned back to Mitch. “Ready to start the movie?” he signed.
Mitch nodded and held up the bag of snacks. “I brought you a little something.”
“Thanks, bro,” Lucas signed, grabbing the licorice along with a can of soda before finding his spot on the couch.
“So much sugar,” Mitch’s mom wrinkled her nose. “I’m going to go make a vegetable tray to counterattack.”
“I’ll help,” Mitch offered before turning to sign to Lucas, “I’ll be right back.”
“Want me to make nachos?” Lucas signed.
“I’ve got it.” Mitch followed his mom into the kitchen. Even though his brother wouldn’t be able to hear him, he lowered his voice, “It’s Friday night. How come he’s hanging out at home again?”
She pulled out a bag of carrots and a cutting board. “He’s comfortable here.”
Mitch gave her a look. “You mean you’re comfortable with him here.”
She lifted a shoulder, avoiding his eyes. “He’s graduating soon. Is it so wrong for me to want to keep him close while I still can?”
He leaned one elbow on the counter. “No. As long as that’s the real reason you’re keeping him close.”
Her eyes darted to his and the guilty look in them told him his suspicions were correct.
“Mom, you need to encourage him to hang out with his friends. It’s healthy for a kid his age.”
She raised her hands. “He did ask that sweet Jessica Jorgensen to prom, and he’s looking forward to graduation,” she paused and her brows furrowed, “I just worry about sending him off on his own, you know?” Her face took on the worried look Mitch had seen so often over the years. He touched her sleeve.
“He’ll be fine. He’s more responsible than most people my age, and he’s smart. He’ll do well in college and will find some amazing girl who sees how incredible he is.”
“I hope so.” She smiled. “I’ve missed your steadiness and optimism. You’ve always been Lucas’ biggest supporter, and it means the world to him.”
Mitch shook his head. “No one comes close to you as his biggest supporter. But I do hope he knows I’m here for him whenever he needs me.”
“He knows,” she assured, effortlessly cutting the carrots in uniform slices. “But since you brought the subject up—have you met any ‘amazing girls’ of your own lately?” She gave him a quick side-eye before resuming her task.
Mitch smirked. Leave it to his mom to turn the dating topic back on him. The question instantly brought Leah to mind, which was exactly who he’d come here tonight to forget. He moved to the fridge and grabbed the celery. “I’ve met some great girls, sure. But if you’re asking if I’m dating anyone, the answer is no.” He didn’t have to turn around for her reaction. Even without looking, he sensed her disappointment.
“What about that girl who cuts your hair? I’ve heard you mention her a few times.”
“Valerie?” Mitch closed the fridge and moved to the sink to rinse the celery. “We’ve hung out a few times, but she’s just a friend.”
His mom quirked an eyebrow. “Did you give her a chance to be anything more than that?”
He sighed, regretting that he hadn’t seen this conversation coming. He knew his mom wanted to see him meet someone special and settle down, but it wasn’t like he could just force feelings that weren’t there. He was pretty sure Valerie wouldn’t mind being more than friends, which was why he hadn’t called her for a few weeks. He didn’t want to lead her on when there was someone else he couldn’t stop thinking about . . . someone he didn’t have a prayer with.
“Well?” his mom prodded, nudging him with her hip.
Mitch blinked back to the present and offered her a placating smile. “Don’t worry, I’m sure the right girl will come along eventually.”
She rolled her eyes and began chopping with a bit more vigor. “Only if you let her, Mitch. There are dozens of girls who would love to date you. You just need to open your eyes and start noticing them.”
He folded his arms, knowing she wouldn’t rest until he agreed with her. “I’ll do my best. Scout’s honor.”
She snorted and shook her head, taking the celery from him with a smile. “Somehow that’s not very convincing.”
He grinned before moving to the cupboard for a serving dish. His mom was normally great at giving at advice, but in this case, she had it all wrong. Mitch did notice a girl. When it came to Leah, he couldn’t help but notice. The problem was, she didn’t notice him back.
Chapter Five
“I don’t think I can do this.” Leah prepared to bolt back down the steps before Olivia grabbed her arm.
“No way! You’re not leaving me alone to fend for myself with whomever might be in there,” she protested, pulling Leah back onto the porch of Savannah and Piper’s townhome. “We’re in this together, and we have an exit plan, remember? If the guys are awful, we’ll make an excuse for why we need to leave early.” Her eyes pleaded as she tightened her grip on Leah’s arm.
Leah made a face, still not convinced this wasn’t a horrible idea. Olivia didn’t know how far off Savannah could be on the whole matchmaking thing. But kudos to her for being willing to go in. Leah relented with a sigh, joining her friend on the porch.
“Okay,” she said. “If things are going south, say the code word, and I’ll pretend to get a text that my mom needs help.” It was the perfect excuse. Carol’s friend Patty was staying with her so Leah could have a night out, but her friends wouldn’t question the text.
“Got it.” Olivia nodded, the corner of her mouth betraying a smile she was trying to hide.
Leah folded her arms. “Do you remember the code word?” she asked, not finding the situation the least bit funny.
“’Stellar.’” Oliva rolled her eyes. “I remember. Now quit worrying, and let’s go.” She grabbed Leah’s hand and rapped on the door twice before entering the townhome. Music played from down the hall. “Hey, we’re here!” Olivia called.
Leah heard male voices and wanted to shrink back outside, but Olivia kept a firm hold on her arm. Why had she wasted a night out on this? She could have gone to a movie or gotten ice cream. Anything but one of Savannah’s date traps.
As if summoned by her thoughts, Savannah came flouncing down the hall with her raven hair swinging and an “I’ve got a surprise for you” twinkle in her eyes that made Leah want to run for cover.
“Hey, gals,” she sang, greeting them with hugs. “Thanks for coming over.” She pulled back, glancing between them with an approving smile. “You both look gorgeous tonight.”
“So do you,” Leah returned, tilting her hip. “What’s the occasion?” She pinned Savannah with a look which she hoped was intimidating, but her friend’s smile only grew. The nerve.
“I’ve invited a few extra fr
iends here tonight. I hope you don’t mind.”
Olivia shifted and Leah folded her arms, ready to tell Savannah just how much she did mind, when a guy appeared in the hall followed by another guy behind him. Leah clamped her mouth shut as they walked forward with friendly smiles. They looked like decent people. A sideways glance at Olivia showed that she was smiling back. Leah relaxed her shoulders. She could do this for Olivia.
Savannah turned to the boys. “Hey, I have some friends I want you to meet.” She touched Leah’s arm. “This is Leah Hunter, my friend from grade school and one of the sweetest people you’ll ever know.” She caught Leah’s eye and gave her a pleading look.
Leah groaned inside. How could she be mad after an intro like that? She forced a smile and stepped forward, moving into polite, flight-attendant mode as she extended her hand to the nearest guy. He was about her height with hair almost as blonde as hers. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“You too. I’m Dan.” His eyes crinkled in the corners, a sign that he smiled often.
Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad.
“I’m Chase.” The other guy forced Dan to the side as he reached to grip Leah’s hand in a vigorous handshake. “Pleased to meet you, Leah.”
Savannah cleared her throat, and Leah used the interruption as an excuse to extricate her hand from Chase before it fell off.
“And this is my friend Olivia,” Savannah said, pulling Olivia to stand in front of Chase. “She’s Drew’s younger sister.”
Okay, so she’s pegged Chase for Liv. Leah bit the inside of her cheek, wishing it had been Dan. He was clearly a better match. She watched as Chase pumped Olivia’s hand, stating that she looked just like a character in his favorite anime movie. Oy. Leah shot a glance at Savannah, who was biting her lip. Good. Now she could see first-hand how terrible her matchmaking skills were.
“So, Savannah told me you’re a flight attendant,” Dan said, pulling her attention back. “How do you like your job?”
When Sparks Fly (Pine Ridge Romance Book 2) Page 2
