Chapter 9

As if she’d touched something hot, Andi’s hands fell from her husband’s face.

“Clare, come in,” Jack said.

Clare felt her cheeks heat with color. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“You didn’t,” Andi said graciously. “Do we need more ice?” She took the bucket from Clare. “It’s out in the garage. I’ll get it.”

When Clare turned to go back the way she’d come, Jack stopped her. “Clare.”

She turned to him and fought through her embarrassment at having witnessed a tender moment between her ex-husband and his new wife.

“I’m glad you came tonight. I know it means a lot to Kate that you’re here.”

She nodded. “We’re going soon. I still get tired far too easily, and you’ve got an early morning.”

He groaned. “She wants to leave at five.”

Clare smiled. “She’s not wasting a minute.”

“We’d be leaving at midnight if she’d had her way.”

“Your mother’s worried about Kate.”

“Believe me, I know. I’ve heard all about it.”

“Well, have a safe trip, and thanks again for taking her.”

“I promised I would.”

“Make sure she calls me when you get there.”

“Will do. When are you leaving for Vermont?”

“In the next few days. I’ve been so busy getting Kate ready that I haven’t packed a thing for myself yet.”

“Keep in touch while you’re there.”

“I will.”

Andi came back in with the refilled ice bucket.

Jack took it from her. “I’ve got it,” he said and went back out to the party.

Clare started to follow him but turned back. “Andi?” she said. “I want to thank you for giving this lovely party for Kate.”

“It was my pleasure,” Andi said with a warm smile.

“And for everything else, too. You’ve been so good to my girls. I just…well…thank you.”

“I love them.”

“Yes, I believe you do.”

“We’re glad you could be here tonight. Jack told me you’re planning to go away for a while. We’ll take good care of Maggie for you. Don’t worry about her.”

“I appreciate that. I know it’s an imposition with all you have going on.”

Andi’s eyes danced with amusement. “Are you kidding me? She’s the biggest help with the boys—all of them. I’m lost without her on the days she’s at your house.”

Clare smiled, imagining Maggie bossing everyone around. “I’m glad she’s a help to you.”

“Take care of yourself, Clare. We’ll take care of Maggie.”

“Thank you.” God, Clare thought, that was awkward. Yet she was oddly relieved to know that her daughter was well loved by the woman who’d be helping to care for her while Clare put her life back together.

“May I borrow the birthday girl?” Clare asked.