A muscle twitched in his jaw as he put the car in motion. “I invited you to go with me last time—that’s not the same as leaving you.”

“Some offer—you knew I couldn’t go. Even if you didn’t know about my dad leaving, you knew my mom was critically ill and I’d never leave her. And you knew I dreamed of going to Duke. Was I just supposed to drop all that for you?”

“You’re absolutely right. How silly to think you might put me first.”

Put him first? Her family had needed her! She was supposed to desert her dying mom and siblings because he’d made an impulsive decision to move away?

Sophie bit back words she’d later regret. She faced the windshield where rivulets of water trickled down until the wipers swished them away. She only wished she could so easily sweep away the last hour of her life.

chapter thirty-five

The house was dark and quiet when Sophie left her room the next morning. She flipped on the living room light as Pippa trotted to the patio door and stood waiting, tail wagging furiously.

“Don’t let those mean ol’ sea oats get you.” Sophie let the dog out, then stared up the staircase.

Was Aiden awake yet? Once they’d arrived at their destination last night, they inspected the Jet Ski, which seemed to be in good shape. Aiden asked some questions, then Sophie called Jenna, who promptly sent the funds.

Despite the successful trip they drove home in silence, towing the Jet Ski along with a load of tension. Sophie had been afraid of making matters worse, and judging by Aiden’s clenched jaw, she guessed he felt the same.

But now, a full night’s sleep to her credit, Sophie was willing to admit he might’ve been right. She probably should wean her siblings from her care. Hadn’t she been feeling convicted about that lately? Perhaps coddling them might be more about meeting Sophie’s needs than theirs. She liked feeling helpful. Perhaps she even basked in the glow of their appreciation. Maybe she was even a little afraid of losing them.

But she had to consider Aiden’s feelings too. She winced, thinking of the things she’d said last night. She hadn’t meant to throw the past in his face. It had been insensitive—especially since she’d already forgiven him for the way he’d left.

But it was a fresh new day. Calmer heads would prevail this morning. They could talk this out, then get on with her grand opening. She had every reason to be optimistic.

Once she let Pippa back inside she headed to the kitchen, dished out the kibble, and went to start the coffee. She was still several feet from the machine when she spotted the note on the counter.

Her stomach sank at the sight of Aiden’s familiar scrawl.

Sophie,