Page 399 of Hidden Depths
“I know.”
“We can’t keep protecting one another with secrets.”
“No.”
“Not anymore.”
Mom looked toward Nathan.
He stood several feet away, speaking with a Coast Guard officer.
“There are some secrets we keep because we’re afraid,” she said.
“Afraid of what?”
“The truth changing everything.”
I followed her gaze.
“You knew Nathan loved you.”
“Yes.”
“Did you love him?”
Her silence answered.
“Mom?”
“I loved your father.”
“That isn’t what I asked.”
“No.”
She closed her eyes.
When she opened them, tears glistened there.
“After Daniel died, Nathan searched for him longer than anyone. He came to the house often. He repaired whatever broke. He brought groceries when I forgot to eat. He sat with you girls when I couldn’t stop crying.”
“I don’t remember that.”
“You were grieving. And Nathan never stayed long enough for you to become attached.”
“Why?”
“Because one night I asked him not to leave.”
I stared at her.
“What happened?”
“He stayed until morning.”
My mouth fell open.
Mom almost laughed.
