Extreme Love Makeover (4 page)

“I don’t want to drop it.” He turned me slightly, trying to look me in the eye, but I darted out of his way.

“Oh, look, there’s Mayor Risley.” I waved to the mayor, and Mitch was on my heels.

“Sidney, wait.”

“Doctor Case, Miss Edwards.” Mayor Risley welcomed us with outstretched arms. “Let’s move the two of you over here to cut the ribbon, and then we can all check out the inside.”

Mitch and I glanced at each other then back at the mayor. This went beyond uncomfortable. I mean, how could we have closure if we were going to be stuck together every time we turned around? This was Mitch’s moment. He should cut the ribbon on his own.

“Shall we?” Mitch gestured after the mayor, who must have assumed we were in agreement.

“Sure.” I gulped as newspaper reporters and TV cameras prepared for the story.

We stood behind the bright red ribbon, putting our hands on a pair of scissors. With the whole town watching, along with my entire crew, we snipped the ribbon in half and everyone applauded. As people filed into the building, Mitch and I remained outside.

I fought back my tears as I thought of something to say for our final good-bye. When I’d left twelve years ago, I didn’t have to face him like this. Facing him was so much harder, but I wasn’t a girl anymore. I was a woman, and I wasn’t a coward.

“Sooo... if you ever have anything else you need building, you know who to call.” I tried for a brave smile.

He stared deep into my eyes for a long moment and I couldn’t breathe. “Actually I do have something I’d like you to build.”

“Wh-What’s that?” I couldn’t image what else he’d need after this. Didn’t he realize how difficult it would be for me? All I wanted to do was to leave and feel sorry for myself. With me gone, he could move on with his life.

“A life with me,” he said, putting that notion to rest. “I love you, Sidney. I always have and always will. Say you’ll stay.” Mitch took my hands, dipped his head and kissed me like there was no tomorrow, because today was the start of forever.

“Yes,” I said, and meant it this time.

The End

About the Author

Barbara lives in upstate New York with her supportive husband and their three children. She’s been a writer for as long as she can remember. If she doesn’t have a laptop you can bet she has a notebook. Barbara loves to travel and hopes to one day take a trip to Ireland for “research.” But until that happens she will settle for an occasional getaway with her favorite alpha male.

Fun Facts

- Loves camping, hiking, anything that gets her outside and in touch with nature.

- Avid dog lover who at a young age claimed she was going to have a house full of puppies, not kids!

- Dreamed of being a professional ice dancer.

- Enjoys crocheting and scrapbooking.

- Will never turn down strawberry liquorice.