Resting on the crutches for support, Luke dumped the pot of pasta into a colander in the sink. “It’s amazing—and complicated.”

“What happened to her is such a terrible tragedy. How’s she doing now?”

“She still has some rough moments, but for the most part, she’s doing well.”

“I’m glad you’re getting another chance with her.”

“I just hope it works out this time.”

“And if it doesn’t?”

The question sent a shaft of fear zipping through Luke. “I don’t even like to think about that.”

Grant dropped to one of the stools at the counter. “I hope you make out better than I did.”

“I take it you talked to Abby.”

Grimacing, Grant nodded. “Twice.”

“And?”

“She says it’s over. She’s actually going to marry that guy.” He looked up at Luke, devastation marking his features. “Can you believe that?”

“I can’t imagine either of you with anyone else.”

“Neither can I.”

“So what’s the plan?”

“Haven’t exactly got one.”

“You can’t just give up.”

“She’s engaged, man. Getting married in October.”

“She’s not married yet.”

Grant crossed his arms. “She was pretty damned clear earlier when she said it’s over for us.”

“A lot can happen between now and October. You might have to bide your time. Wait for your chance.”

“Is that what you’re doing with Sydney?”

“I’m trying to give her space to figure things out. Sometimes it’s hard to be patient, because I know what I want.”

“I hope you get it.”

“Back atcha.” Luke raised his beer bottle in toast to Grant. “It’s good to have you home.”

“I wish I could say it’s good to be here, but between this thing with Abby and what happened to you and my dad, this visit has sucked the big one.”

“Nowhere to go but up from here.”

“No kidding.” Grant took a long look around the kitchen. “This place is exactly as I remembered it.”

“It’s been brought to my attention that I’m in a time warp. Syd’s going to update me.”

Grant smiled. “You or the house?”

“Both, I suspect. You know me—if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

“I envy you,” Grant said.

Luke snorted with laughter. “You envy me?”

“You know exactly where you belong in the world. You’re doing what you love in a place you love. Must be nice.”

“You don’t love your work?”