CHAPTER ONE #5
The support was overwhelming. She put her elbows on her knees and buried her face in her hands.
She was doing her best not to weep. She never showed her emotions, ever.
This was so sudden and unexpected. It was still surprising that none of them even asked her why her family didn’t know where she lived.
She knew it was out of respect for her privacy.
What a wonderful group of friends she had.
They were going to help her even though they knew nothing about her.
“You are all so amazing. I couldn’t ask for better friends. ”
Elaina hugged her. “We’re here for you.”
“I have to go to New York anyway. I have a charity dinner midweek next. I don’t mind. I’ll just leave a few days earlier.”
She heard the deep treble of Lance’s voice and was grateful he read the situation well. He was trying to minimize the impact of her guilt over accepting help. Knowing that, of course, didn’t help at all.
“Tammy?”
It was Elaina’s voice; soft, sweet and concerned.
She nodded and lifted her head. She honestly couldn’t go back alone.
She needed someone. Elaina was pregnant, Debbie couldn’t do the five hour plane ride and Tessa was too darn busy being the wife of a doctor, and the mother of two rambunctious children.
She certainly couldn’t take Colton. He was married and it would be improper.
Her eyes met Lance’s; she nodded agreeing to his offer.
“Thank you.” She would be thrilled if it was under different circumstances, but she knew this wouldn’t go well with some of her family.
He gave a subtle nod and left. Colt followed him.
“Did you want to talk about it?” Elaina asked.
She looked at her friend. “I can’t.” She was struggling to regain control of her emotions. She couldn’t break down, she wouldn’t. Her mother would not have that hold over her anymore. “It’s a part of my life I ran away from.”
Elaina squeezed her hand. “It’s okay Tammy. You were there for me when I needed you. Just know I’m here. I know it takes time. I feel better that you are not going alone. Lance will make sure you’ll be okay.”
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