Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts novel Chapter 529

“I’m glad that you want to move on. You know, dear, marriage is really just about having someone to share the ups and downs with. It’s the mundane days that build a life. You’ll understand when you’re my age.”

Phoebe rolled her eyes. “Alright, Mom, I get it. But can we just cut back on the blind dates? Maybe one or two a week would be enough?”

Meg never intended to push her daughter to the brink. Hearing Phoebe’s willingness to give it a try eased a weight from her heart, and tears swirled in her eyes with relief. “Alright, I promise I won’t set you up on more than one date a day.”

A smile played on Phoebe’s lips. “Thanks, Mom.”

“Hungry, dear? I could whip up some late-night snacks.”

Phoebe pouted. “No way, midnight snacking is a straight path to gaining weight.”

“Nonsense, you’re so skinny. What weight are you talking about?” Meg frowned, with concern etching her voice.

Phoebe’s pout persisted. It was a fleeting illusion that her mother had softened. “Well, if you insist, how about fixing me some papaya smoothie? It’s low in calories, and it’s good for the skin and health. But I think we’re out of milk.”

“There’s a convenience store right at the bottom of your building, isn’t there? I’ll have your dad pick up some on his way back,” Meg decided, reaching for her phone.

Grayson had just parked the car and was near enough to the store to fulfill the errand. He returned with a carton of fresh milk, smiling as he walked into the living room to find his wife and daughter cozied up on the sofa.

“This is how it should be,” he chuckled. “Not bickering like sworn enemies the moment you see each other, when you both clearly care so deeply.”

“Come sit with us, Dad. Let’s catch up,” Phoebe beckoned, patting the couch beside her.

As they settled in, Meg excused herself to prepare the papaya smoothie, leaving Grayson and Phoebe to talk.

Resting her head on Grayson’s shoulder, Phoebe broke the silence. “Dad, you know about my... situation, don’t you? Is that why you never stopped Mom from setting me up on these dates?”

“Of course I know, sweetheart. I’m not blind to my own daughter’s troubles. That guy better not show his face around here again, or I swear...”