“Not at all.” She let out a huge breath. “Listen. Somewhere along the way I became a mother figure to you guys, and I don’t regret that. It was necessary at the time. Mom was unwell and Dad wasn’t around much, and then he was gone altogether. Someone had to do the laundry and make you guys do your homework. But you’re adults now. You’re capable of handling things on your own, and I’m stepping back. I’m doing it as much for you as for me.”

“Stepping back? You already moved away from us.”

“That doesn’t mean I don’t want to be close to both of you. I do. But I’m not your mom. And even if I were, it’s time for you guys to fend for yourselves. More than anything I want to be your sister again—just your sister.”

She squeezed her eyes closed, awaiting his response.

“Does this mean you won’t rebook my flight?”

She frowned at her phone. Seriously?

Seth chuckled. “Kidding. I’m kidding. I’ll call the airline myself. And you’re right. You have made a lot of sacrifices for us, and I guess it was just easy to let you keep making them. I’m sorry I took advantage.”

This was the last thing she’d expected. She huffed a laugh. “I appreciate that.”

“To be honest, I feel kinda bad that I didn’t step up to the plate more when we were teenagers. We’re the same age; I should’ve helped instead of letting you do it all.”

She blinked. “I honestly didn’t mind too much. The role suited me—maybe too well. I’m obviously having a hard time giving it up.”

“Well, consider yourself officially fired as our mom.”

“I’m not sure Jenna will feel the same.”

“She’ll come around. Listen, I have to go. I have a workshop that’s about to start.”

“All right, have a good day, Seth.”

“You too, Sis.”

Sophie’s smile spread as she disconnected her phone, a wave of relief breaking over her. Would it really be as simple as telling her siblings things needed to change? And, if so, why hadn’t she done it a long time ago?

chapter thirty-eight

“So, how’s it going with that hunky boyfriend of yours?” The wind ruffled Haley’s dark curls, and she pushed them behind her ear. “I haven’t seen him around this week.”

Sophie gave a wan smile. “I’m afraid he’s not really in the picture anymore.”

They’d just placed their orders at the Galley. Patrons gathered around small tables on a deck strung with globe lights. The sun was just setting, and Sophie was content to be out on a Friday evening with a new friend.

Haley grimaced. “I’m sorry. You seemed so happy over the weekend. Am I allowed to ask what happened?”