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“You should really clean out the mud room, Mom.”
“It’s fine as it is,” her mom snapped.
“It’s like a shrine in there.”
“The time isn’t right yet.”
There was no eye rolling this time, and Sebastian could feel the tension hanging in the room. Though she hadn’t shared with him, it was obvious that Genevieve’s dad was no longer around.
Ida motioned for them to follow her into the living room, and she settled into a recliner, turning the already-running television to the local news. “Did you see that story this morning about the guy who left his dog in the car in this heat?”
“You know I don’t watch the news, Mom,” Genevieve replied. “What happened? Did the dog die?”
“A person walking by saw and called the police. They got the dog out in time.”
“That’s good.”
“Yeah, I can’t believe some people. I’m always hearing stories about kids and animals dying when people do that. It’s like leaving them in an oven.” She took a sip of water.
“Nice place you have here,” Sebastian said.
“Thank you.”
“Seems like a peaceful area to live in. How long have you been here?” he asked.
“Since before Genny’s sister, Rhonda, was born. Going on thirty-five years now, I’d say. Where do you live, Kurtis?”
“In Grand Rapids. I have a place on the east side.”
“Very nice. So, you must do well for yourself then.”
“Mom,” Genevieve cut in. “That’s his business.”
Her mom shrugged her shoulders innocently. “Drives a nice car. Has his own place. I’d say he’s a successful man.”
There was that eye-rolling again, which he was starting to find adorable.
“Anyway …”
He could see she was anxious to change the subject.
“I read an article about the fundraiser for the Schultz Foundation, Genny. Is that the thing you’re in charge of?”
“Yes, Mom. It’s a regatta.”
“Well, that’s nice. You always try to do too much yourself, though.”
“She’s doing an amazing job,” Sebastian told her. “You should be very proud.”
Ida’s appreciative smile suddenly shifted, and she began eyeing him strangely. “Have you been working at the Schultz company for long, Kurtis?”
“Ten years.”
“Hmm. And you like it there?”
“I do. It’s a good company to work for.”
Her eyes narrowed a little as she looked at him. It was like she was trying to figure something out, and it was a little unsettling.