Chapter 92 Ivy
IVY
FIVE WEEKS LATER
“Are you sure you don’t mind? I know it puts more on your plate having three more people here.”
“It’s your home; therefore, it’s your decision,” Anthony replies as I tilt my head, my hand on my hip as I wait for an actual reply until he continues, “It’s no bother to me at all. And I believe it’d be great for you and Zachary to have more family around.”
“Yes, it’d be nice,” I admit That’s why I had a conversation with Uncle Shawn when they came over for Thanksgiving supper last week.
At first, I didn’t think my uncle would go for the idea.
Especially with how Grandma feels about me.
Although, she seemed to be a bit less hostile when she was here.
I believe that Anthony had a lot to do with the fact because he kept her engaged in conversation about king cakes, which is a favorite topic of hers.
But even when she did see me, she didn’t scream and only told me one time to get away from her.
Nevertheless, the house is spaced-out enough that I won’t be around her unless she wants to see me.
Plus, I offered to hire additional medical staff to come in and help out.
So, it’ll take a load off of Aunt Kathleen.
And that’s why I really think Uncle Shawn agreed.
They’re making arrangements and should be here in the next few weeks.
Maybe even in time for Christmas. Of course, I said I’d still do the same even if they didn’t want to move in with me.
But I really hoped they would. The house feels too empty.
Zachary is hardly around. However, he’s doing well in school.
He’s showing up and actually making decent grades.
It’s one of those situations where I go with my mom’s old saying of pick your battles since he’s on a decent track.
Especially since he got up and ready for school this morning without complaint. Usually, the first day after break is rough. I’m dreading going back tomorrow but thankfully had a good excuse for my absence today.
“You know what else is good?” I point to my right leg that’s now in a soft brace. “I can drive now.”
“It’s no trouble for me to chauffeur you around, Ms. Walker,” Anthony states.
“Can’t say I’ve minded either, but it’ll be nice to have a little freedom.” The hard brace was miserable and constrictive. Just getting around seems easier.
“Have you decided if you’re attending the fundraiser this upcoming weekend?” he asks.
It’s not just any fundraising event, it’s Luca’s event.
He’s still on his do-gooder roll and I have to say this one is hard to overlook.
The foundation raises awareness and funds for mental health and suicide programs. And while all that is amazing and important.
I don’t know what to do with him. Always lurking and lingering in the background.
He’s not pushing but is always there. “I don’t know.
I think it’d be better just to send a donation.
Then someone else can have my ticket.” That was purchased by Anthony before he asked if I wanted to go.
“It would be good for you to get out.”
“Anthony, my goal is to not leave the house. I’m going to finish the next few weeks of school then hibernate until after New Year’s.” I’d really considered going remotely to school; Zachary is the only reason I didn’t. Kind of hard for me to preach to him if he perceives I’m skipping out.
“There’s going to be several scholarships awarded in your mother’s honor. I presumed you’d want to be present.” When I don’t reply, he adds, “Perhaps, give it a little further consideration.”
I’ve given it a shitload of consideration. And I’m no closer to being comfortable with the decision than I was when he first mentioned the subject.
Once we’re home, I head to my bedroom and tell him I’m going to take a nap.
I should try since I didn’t sleep much last night.
The nightmares have been loads worse since I switched to a bedroom on the first floor.
Making it upstairs wasn’t ideal. Initially, I didn’t mind the change of scenery—Luca had never been in this one, though he’s been in my dreams plenty.
It couldn’t just be good sex dreams though; No, he joined the cluster of nightmares.
Mostly, he’s injured and dying. Remy doesn’t appear as often. My mom is always there.
I lie across the bed and stare at the walls.
Since the window faces the backyard, the curtain stays closed at all times.
Maybe I should move back to my old room.
The staircase shouldn’t be as much of a challenge now.
But I decide to wait. I don’t want to make any rash decisions until I can think clearly.