One Wish Left

CHAPTER 32: TOGETHER

Eleanor wiped at the counter for the fiftieth time. How was it that she felt so nervous? This was a teenage girl—hardly someone to feel intimidated by. Nevertheless, there she was, anxiously making sure every piece was in place for a perfect family dinner.

She knew this girl probably wouldn't be around for long, but something about the fact that this was Brodie's first girlfriend made her want to make a good impression. She would do anything for her son's happiness, and welcoming his girlfriend with open arms was the least she could do.

At least, that's what she kept telling herself.

Part of her felt jealous. This girl was taking away her son! Her one and only son. And there was no way in hell she would ever be good enough for him.

As she heard the front door to their apartment open followed by hushed giggles, Eleanor checked herself and pasted on a smile she hoped said, I'm delighted to meet you.

When Brodie walked around the corner into the kitchen blushing—blushing!—and with a huge grin on his face, Eleanor's heart melted straight to the floor and her smile transformed with genuine joy.

Clearly, her son was happy, and whoever was helping to make it happen was a treasure in her book.

"Mum, this is Laura, my girlfriend," he said with a look of open admiration at the girl.

Eleanor took in the young woman's asymmetrical smile, gorgeous green eyes, and touchable chestnut hair and knew instantly how easy it must have been for Brodie to become enchanted. This girl was beautiful without even trying.

The girl detached her hand from Brodie's and held it out. "Hello, Ms. Johnson. It's so nice to meet you."

Eleanor clasped her hand. "Please. Call me Eleanor. I'm so pleased to meet you, Laura. Would you like a sparkling water?"

"Oh! I've never had one," she said with a sheepish look at Brodie. "But I'd love to try it."

"Very good. Brodie?"

"Yeah, thanks, Mum."

Eleanor turned to grab two peach-flavored waters from the refrigerator while her son led Laura to the small, round table situated between their kitchen and living room. She set the cans on the countertop and cracked them open. As she poured the drinks over ice, she peeked up through her lashes to observe her son pulling out Laura's chair.

It was a little strange to see Brodie playing out the boyfriend role, but she could hardly keep herself from smiling at the look on his face. It appeared he couldn't keep himself from smiling either.

Neither of them could.

Eleanor sighed.

They were in love, and it was cute. But the jealous part of her reared its ugly head when Laura giggled at something Brodie was whispering in her ear. Something Eleanor couldn't be a part of.

"So, Laura. Tell me about yourself. And don't worry—this isn't a test," she said sweetly, all while crossing her fingers behind her back.

Laura turned to give Eleanor her full attention. "Well, my parents are Henry and Donna Gibson—"

"Donna?!" she interjected. "She works at Heartland, right? I've seen her around the hospital a few times."

Laura nodded, smiling. "Yes, she's a nurse, and dad's a chemist. I'm their only child."

So you're spoiled, Eleanor amended mentally, failing to acknowledge that her son was also an only child.

"I'm really into art and reading. I like doing yoga with my mom, but I don't really do any sports."