“Free for a cuddle?” I asked Z, waiting for her permission.
“Aye, he’s off work.” Zara smiled gently as I dropped to my knees and wrapped my arms around a delighted Mitch, who dragged his tongue across my face as his whole body vibrated in excitement. He was a great dog and he’d made an enormous difference to my sister’s mobility and independence.
“Cuppa tea?” Zara asked, moving confidently through her space, which was set up to her own exacting standards. I’d learned long ago to keep things neat and tidy when I was with her, lest she inadvertently trip over something I’d carelessly left out.
“Please, thanks.” I stood and crossed the room—an open-style lounge and kitchen space—and put my bag on the couch and off the floor. “I’m just putting my backpack on the couch and then I’ll deal with the rest of the luggage later.”
“I’ve already got your place lined up.” Zara filled the kettle and clicked it on, pulled out two sage green mugs, and a box of Twinings. Her movements were methodical and precise, much like her personality, and I smiled. Being with her was like the cup of tea she was making for me—warm and soothing.
“That’s shockingly fast. I wasn’t sure you’d be able to swing anything in my budget,” I said, raising an eyebrow.Of courseshe’d already sorted out my accommodation.
“Loren Brae has had some struggles the last few years, it seems. There are a lot of people heading out to the cities. But I managed to find something serviceable enough. It’s small, but clean and warm. It’s just a wing of a house, and you’ll have to share the kitchen, I’m told, but you’ll get your own bedroom and lounge room. Faelan said her client’s friend is renting the space for a little extra income. He’s watching after the property for his mum who has moved into assisted care and could use the extra money. Parkinson’s, I believe. Such a shame.”
“That’s … a lot of information,” I said, instantly being reminded what living in a small town is like. “I guess that will work. I don’t really cook much anyway, so I’m sure the shared kitchen won’t be a bother.”
“I don’t know the lad, but he’s coming by with keys tomorrow. I paid the security deposit and first month’s rent foryou.” Zara’s tone was as measured as the water she poured into the mug, and my stomach twisted.
“Z. You didn’t have to do that. I have savings. Not much. But some.”
“An early Christmas present,” Zara said, turning to me with a small smile. “You know I hate frivolous gifts. It makes me feel good to be able to help, and I know you can use the help. Win-win.”
“Only if you’re certain.” I crossed the room and took my mug from her, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek. “Love you, Z.”
“You too, L.”
Mitch sat hopefully at the counter, his eyes going from us to a cabinet door.
“Does Mitch want a treat?”
“Mitch lives for treats.” Z’s smile tugged up the corners of her lips. “But go on, he can have one.”
“Yay!” Digging into the cabinet, I found a bone for him, and retreated to the couch, mug and treat in hand. Mitch followed closely and then sat, his eyes staring at my hand.
“Who is the best boy in all the land?” I asked, and Mitch wiggled, but stayed in place. “You are!”
I handed him his bone, and he took it gently, then dropped to the floor to chew happily, clearly agreeing with my assessment.
“I’ve got work in the morning, so you’ll have to meet the landlord, but I figured you’d be fine with that since you’ll be living there.” Zara settled onto a lounge chair with a side table next to it. “You know I’d have you here but…”
“I’d clutter up your space, make you break a hip, and you don’t like sharing your bed,” I deadpanned and Zara laughed, shaking her brown hair back from her shoulders.
“You’re not wrong. But I am so happy you’re back here. I’ve missed you. I mean, I don’t want to live with you, but Ihavemissed having you around.”
“The feeling is mutual. You’re far too uptight for me,” I said, blowing on my tea and taking a sip. Easing back into the cushions, I crossed my legs and grinned as my sister made a rude gesture at me.
“Try navigating the world in darkness and see how you feel about rules,” Zara said.
“Ugh, playing the blind card once again,” I murmured and she laughed.
“Only with you because you’re a pain in the arse,” Zara said.
“But I’m your favorite pain in the arse, aren’t I? Admit it.”
“Aye, my bubbly, sunshiny, chaotic, messy whirlwind of a sister. You are my favorite pain in the arse. Though I certainly have some opinions on your latest snafu. Have you heard what they’re saying about you on TikTok?” Zara shook her head, pursing her lips.
“Och, you have to ignore them.” I’d removed the app from my phone to avoid hearing hurtful things. Denial is thy name and all that.
“I try, but my algorithm keeps serving it up. Don’t you think it’s … it’s time?” Concern flooded Zara’s pretty face.