Page 100 of Promises in the Dark

I show a grateful smile. “I appreciate that.” My eyes drift to Clara, her head on a pillow. “And thank you for watching her during my appointment.”

“Of course.” She slides the bag strap over her arm. “We should have a girls’ night soon. Maybe one without the boys.” She laughs.

My lips curve up. “I’d like that.”

She looks over at Clara. “Bye, Clara! I’ll see you soon.”

Clara blows a kiss, and Scarlett pretends to catch it before she turns and exits out the front door.

I sit beside Clara, the tips of my fingers pushing back her hair. “Did you have a nice time with Aunt Scarlett?”

A slight smile appears between her chubby cheeks as she nods, but it’s not one of her big ones that I’m used to.

I look at the time on my phone. “I’m going to make us some lunch. Sound good?”

She nods, her eyes fixed on the TV. I’m caught off guard by how quiet she is, but I stand and head into the kitchen, gathering what I need while also deciding to turn our lunch into a picnic by the lake.

Maybe that will bring a smile to her face.

A familiar nursery rhyme plays in the background on the TV, capturing Clara’s attention while I finish preparing our lunch.

“Almost done, Clara,” I call out, humming along to the tune as I cut the grilled cheese sandwich into bite-sized pieces. Then I arrange the peach slices into the shape of a flower and smile, admiring my work. “Not too bad, if I say so myself.”

My phone vibrates on the counter beside me, and I grab it, seeing Alex’s name on the screen. I can’t help the swirl of butterflies in my stomach as I quickly swipe my finger across the screen.

Alex

How’s everything?

Charlotte

Just putting together a picnic for Clara and me to eat by the lake. How’s Montana?

Alex

We’re heading to the ranch now. Not great service here. If you need something and can’t get ahold of me, my mom’s home. I put her number in your phone. I’ll be home before dinner so I can cook for the both of you.

My heart flutters, warmth swirling inside my chest.

Charlotte

Looking forward to it. Be safe. And please come home in one piece.

Alex

Always, Fiorellina.

I drop my phone onto the counter, pick up the picnic basket, and carry it over to Clara, who is curled up on the floor with her eyes glued to the TV.

“Lunch is ready. I thought we could eat by the lake since it’s so nice out.” I stop in front of her, frowning when she doesn’t spring to her feet the way she always does. She loves the lake. Normally, she’d already be halfway to the door. “Not hungry, sweet girl?”

She gives a small shake of her head and pushes herself upright. Tiny fingers rub at sleepy eyes that look too heavy to stay open. Her chubby cheeks are slightly pink, and when I crouch down and press my palm to her forehead, her skin feels warm. Too warm.

“Oh no,” I mutter under my breath, worry immediately filling me.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

She looks up at me with her big, cloudy eyes, her lips turning downward.