Page 78 of Real Forever
“It’s not an excuse, Agatha.”
“No? Then why not make a plan to help Lauren get stuff with Dave sorted out and then move to Calgary? Make a plan. Tell Jake.”
“Agatha…”
Agatha raised an eyebrow.
“I don’t know if I’m ready to leave them,” Madison admitted.
“It’s okay. You don’t have to be ready to do that yet. Or ever, if it’s not the right thing for you. But I want you to choose for yourself the life you want. It’s okay not to have all the answers right away. You are making some big steps here and the fact you’re deciding to move forward is huge. It’s a big step Madison, and I’m proud of you.”
“Thanks, Agatha.”
Madison let go of Agatha’s hand to pull her buzzing phone from her pocket.
Jake:Madison, do whatever you need to do with these to make things right for Lauren and Maisie.
Below the textwere the photos Jake had taken at Tammy’s house. Madison’s mouth dropped open as she scrolled through each one.
“What is it?” Agatha asked.
Madison peered up at Agatha, stunned. She turned her phone around so Agatha could see for herself.
Agatha took the phone and squinted at the screen. “Is that… is thatDave?”
Madison nodded.
“Jesus Christ. Who’s the woman?”
“Her name is Tammy. She owns NorAsana. That legging company Lauren got in so much trouble with.”
Agatha covered her mouth and handed the phone back to Madison. “How did you get those? Who sent them?”
Madison let out an amused huff. “Jake.”
“What? Okay, I’m so confused.”
Madison erupted in laughter. “Agatha, I gotta go. Can I borrow your car?”
“Of course, but you be careful.”
Standing up, Madison gave Agatha a big hug. “Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you. I love you, Ags.”
“Love you too, dear.”
32
Jake
“You’ve gotto be fucking kidding me.” Adeline was calling. Jake answered with a terse, “Hello, Mom.”
“Well, well, well. There he is. Where have you been today?”
“What are you talking about?”
“I called your office line this morning and your voicemail said you were out for the morning.”
“Yes. And?”
