Page 82 of Saving Soul

“It’s a shame Nora went home for the holidays. She would’ve loved the baby cuddles.”

Josie leaned back into the chair and pondered me quietly. “You must feel like a prisoner here.” Her eyes were full of remorse. “I’m sorry their rules are so strict.”

“Please don’t apologize. This is going to help us so much. I can deal with a few missed holidays if it means Finn and I can move back to LA.”

“You wouldn’t consider staying on the East Coast? I know your sister would love it.”

My heart dipped. “I know…but it’s not my home anymore.”

“I understand,” Josie said with a solemn smile. “I loved Australia, but this is where I belong.”

A rush of sadness vibrated through her as she filled two glasses with wine and handed one over.

“Amy told me about your parents,” I said, hyperaware of her surfacing pain.

She took a sip of her wine. “Please don’t say you’re sorry.”

I chuckled. “You hate that too?”

Josie gazed up at me through glazed eyes. “It must’ve been so hard losing your husband like that.” Her voice grew hoarse. “Sometimes I wonder what’s worse: losing someone instantly or from a long illness.”

I swallowed back emotion with a mouthful of wine. “They’re both awful.”

The song switched to Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down”,andJosie grinned at the stereo. “This is one of my dad’s favorite songs.”

“Dominic loved this one, too. He played it on repeat throughout his treatment.”

“We should take it as a sign, then.” Josie brought her glass toward mine. “To keep living, no matter how much it hurts.”

“And to men with exceptionally good music taste,” I added before clinking her glass.

“Speaking of men…” She sheepishly ran her finger around her glass. “Did anything happen between you and Adam after the wedding?”

“No,” I uttered too quickly. “I mean…not really.”

“Not really?” Her brows raised.

“We didn’t sleep together, if that’s what you’re asking.”

“Maybethat’swhy he’s been so crabby lately. He’s not used to getting turned down.”

“I’m not risking my job for…”The best sex of my life.“Forthat.”

“I don’t think you need to worry about your job here. Liam loves you, and his doctor says you’re making all the difference.”

I grasped the opportunity to divert the conversation. “So, his check-up went well today?”

“Amazing, actually. Marc said Gramps is well enough to have Thanksgiving dinner with us downstairs, and it’s made his week.”

I smiled. “That’s so great.”

“I never knew how powerful Reiki could be.”

“Liam’s still here because he wants to be. The Reiki only helps manage his pain where medication can no longer.”

“It’s for physical and emotional pain, right?”

I nodded. “Has Amy tried it on you?”