Page 100 of Backup Plan

“Oh, Liam. There’s a place not far from the boys’ school. Does that work?”

“Yeah.” I press my lips together and stare out at my view.

“I’ll go now. Okay?”

“Great. Thanks.”

I stall with the moving crew, and Dolores arrives in time. I hand them the paperwork and the key. “This belongs to Penny, too,” I tell them.

And then they leave. Dolores leaves. I’m all alone again.

I stand in the doorway of the boys’ room.

It’s empty except for the furniture. Two loft beds meant to be shared by brothers are empty now.

I move next door to Penny’s room and stand in the doorway there. It’s empty, too. I even sent the sheets and blankets with the moving company. The thought of smelling her on them felt too overwhelming.

It’s a little after nine o’clock when my phone rings.

I see it’s Penny calling, and I actually hesitate a moment. I’ve been drinking, and I’m not sure picking up is the best idea.

I do anyway.

“Hey,” I answer.

“Thank you.” Her voice is quiet, but it feels good to hear it.

“You’re welcome.”

Neither of us says anything for a few awkward beats.

“Where are you staying?” I finally ask.

“My mom’s.”

“I figured. It’s why I got you the storage unit. You’re welcome to stay here.”

“I know.”

More awkward silence.

“Okay,” I say.

She clears her throat, and I think she’s going to say something, but she doesn’t.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you around.”

“Yeah,” she murmurs. “Bye.”

My phone beeps at me, indicating the call has ended, but I can’t find the energy to lower the phone from my ear for a while.

Eventually I do, but only so I can change my flight for Sunday to tomorrow. I need to get the hell out of here.

And as I’m rebooking my flight, my phone rings.

I glance at the top of the screen to see who’s daring to interrupt my task.

Everleigh Bradley.