CHAPTER 107

How many times had she done dishes at this old enamel sink? She’d never once wondered if it’d be the last time she’d listen for the melodic coos of the mourning doves, or see the golden finches pecking at the bird feeders blowing in the sage-scented breeze.

“Sweetheart?”

“Where would you go?”

“Probably tag along with Jenn to wherever she’s going. Not to live with her, but I can’t imagine not seeing Krista, Mason and Ariel regularly. Does that bother you?”

“Why in the world would it bother me? I know that if I had three kids and an iffy future you’d be right there with me, instead of with her.”

“Instead—”

“Instead, I have school to finish.” AJ faced her mother and smiled. “I won’t pretend this is gonna be easy on me, Mama, because unlike you and Jenn, this is the only home I’ve ever had.”

“I know.”

“Have you called Carson yet?”

“No. I wanted to talk to you first, since it affects you the most.”

“I appreciate it. Call him after you rest.”

Florence squinted at the clock. “He’s probably h