The idea had resonated with Angi’s mother, as well. It was obvious Bianca still harbored tremendous anger and disappointment in Angi for lying about her work at the inn but she had a soft spot for Gabe Carlyle.

For better or worse, Bianca didn’t seem to realize that her daughter’s biggest deception involved the relationship with Gabe.

How was Angi supposed to admit to that now when her mother already had so many reasons to be upset? Maybe she should feel relieved that at least Bianca hadn’t done more heart clutching in the wake of discovering Angi had been lying. That felt like progress.

As Angi’s palms went sweaty, Bianca knocked on the door. Gabe opened it a second later, as if he’d been standing on the other side or watching them approach from the front window.

Then Angi noticed that he wore a jacket like he was on his way out. Where would he be heading on a night like this?

“Your grandmother was a wonderful woman and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.” Bianca wrapped Gabe in a tight hug, rocking back and forth with her arms around him like she was comforting a small child.

He met Angi’s gaze over her mother’s shoulder, his eyes both stunned and strangely shiny with emotion.

Not for the first time, she’d wished he had grown up with a mom like hers. Angi might have issues with how overwhelming her family was, but she’d never once doubted her mother’s love or dedication.

Every child—young or adult—should have that.

“We brought dinner,” she told him, somehow understanding that he needed her to lighten the moment.

“And Christmas decorations,” Andrew added from behind her.

Angi nodded as Bianca released Gabe. “But it looks like you were headed out? We can just leave—”

“I was coming to see you,” he said, scrubbing a hand over his jaw. “To apologize for being rude earlier.”

Angi’s heart seemed to skip a beat, and she couldn’t quite form a response.

Her mother had no such trouble. “Don’t be silly,” Bianca told him, patting his arm. “You’re grieving. When we’re at our lowest, the people who care about us are the ones who hold us up. Without question or apologies. You and my daughter are in a relationship. She’s your person, and we’re here for you as well, Gabriel. Now you should invite us in.”

He stared at Bianca for a long second, and Angi had the fleeting fear that he might divulge the truth. Instead, he gave a small nod and stepped back to let Angi’s mother pass.

“Thank you,” he said quietly. “I guess it’s good not to be alone right now.”

THE NEXT SEVERAL days went by in a whirl of activity. Gabe had felt paralyzed as far as making arrangements for his grandmother’s service. It was still inconceivable to him that she was gone. No matter where in the world his career had taken him, knowing his beloved grandma was sending her love to him was like a tether to a version of home.