“One other thing I wanted to mention is I rented a small U-Haul for moving day, and we can attach your car to the back of it,” Jack told Kate.

“I was just going to drive there and figure it out when I got there. You can’t leave now with the babies and everything.”

“It’s all worked out. Andi’s mother and aunt are coming from Chicago for a week to help out while I get you settled. They get here the day before your birthday. I promised Mom I’d take you myself.”

Kate hugged him. “Thank you. You’re the best, Dad.” She gave her mother a hug as well. “Thank you, too, Mom. I know this isn’t what you wanted for me, but I appreciate your support.”

“I want whatever you want, honey,” Clare said. “I’m so very proud of what a fine young woman you’ve grown up to be.” She only wished she’d been there to see it happen.

“I love you guys. See you later,” Kate said with a wave from the door. A moment later, they heard her drive away.

“I have to give you credit, Jack.” The room had grown dark, so Clare reached up to flip on a lamp.

“For what?”

“You had to steer Kate and Jill through the toughest years on your own. You did a wonderful job.”

“I had a lot of help. I certainly can’t take all the credit.”

“You can take a good chunk of it since you had to make the big decisions. You did the right thing letting her do this.”

“I hope you’ll still think so in a year. It’s not just the twins keeping me awake at night. It’s terrifying to think of that beautiful girl alone in a strange city.” He shuddered.

“We just got a good demonstration of how capable she is. She’ll be fine.”

“Do you want to come with us to Nashville? I should’ve asked you sooner. I didn’t realize you were getting around so well.”

“Thanks for asking, but this is something you should do with her. You had the courage to agree to it, so you should take her.”

“You’re welcome to come if you change your mind.”

“I appreciate that, but I’ve been making some plans of my own. That’s what I wanted to talk to you about.”

“What kind of plans?”

Gathering her thoughts, she looked down at the floor. When it was just the two of them together in their house, it was easy to forget that he no longer belonged there. “I’m going away for a while. At least I want to, but it all depends on your willingness to have Maggie full time.”

Surprise registered on his face. “Going where?”

“To Vermont.”

He stared at her as if she had said she was going to the moon. “What’s in Vermont?”