Page 142 of Through the Storms

“Right.” Chloe laughed. “I swear since Riley moved in, it’s like I have two teenagers in the house some days.” Chloe’s eyes softened. “Mia adores her.”

“By that look, I’d say that makes two of you.” A smile parted Lana’s lips, and she nudged Chloe. “So I was right?”

“Yes.” Chloe crinkled up her nose.

“Yes, what?”

“Yes, you were right. I was meant to be with Riley. Is that what you wanted to hear?”

“Music to my ears.” Lana grinned. It was only three months ago that Chloe had finally invited Riley to live with her and Mia. For several months, Chloe had agonized over the decision, while Riley patiently waited for her to be ready. Lana had repeatedly told Chloe that she wouldn’t regret the decision. “You look so happy.”

“Happier than I ever thought possible.” Chloe put her hand on her chest. “Funny how life turns out.”

A cameraman from KOOK 13 jogged toward them.

“Looks like I’m about up,” Lana said.

He held up two fingers.

Lana nodded. “Two minutes.”

The rain had begun to fall, and thunder sounded in the distance.

“Is Mia still insisting on chasing with us on our next run?” Lana asked.

“It’s what she wants for her fifteenth birthday. Well, that and a puppy. She says Sparky needs a friend. I swear, that dog has done more to help her heal than anyone, so I’m sure we’ll be a two-dog family soon.” Chloe shook her head. “I still can’t believe it’s been nearly a year.”

“Time flies. Are you sure Mia’s ready?”

“Her therapist is encouraging it. Says it’s her last step.” Chloe let out a deep breath. “It makes me nervous just thinking about it.”

“But the therapist thinks she’ll be fine?”

Chloe nodded. “She feels safe with all of you, and I think she has a little crush on Asher.”

Lana groaned. “Every teenager that ever goes on the trip has a crush on him.”

Oakley and Riley bounded up. Their excitement radiated off them.

“Whoa, what’s up with you?” Lana asked.

“Just excited about the run,” Oakley said. “Your crew is set up by the car.”

Lana turned to Chloe and wrapped her in a hug. “I won’t ask you to wish me luck because that might be bad luck.”

“But I don’t think I should tell you to break a leg,” Chloe said.

“No,” Riley said. “Mia wouldn’t approve.”

They all laughed.

“How about saying, I’ll buy you a beer when you get back,” Oakley said.

“Hell no.” Chloe put her hand on her hip and frowned at Oakley. “I’m buying her something classier than a beer.”

“Champagne?” Oakley asked.

Chloe nodded.