Read Online Her Mother's Daughter by Lesley Crewe - Free Book Online

thanks.”
    Gertie took a handful. In between crunches she said, “So, what’s up?”
    â€œI hate that she’s back and I love that’s she’s back. I want to wring her neck while I’m hugging her. I can’t seem to relax when I’m with her.”
    â€œFor pity’s sake, Bay, she just got here. You both need time to get used to being in each other’s lives again before you can talk. Once you do, I’m sure this emotional stuff will sort itself out.”
    â€œI guess so,” Bay sighed.
    â€œWhy are you here and not with her?”
    â€œShe went into town.”
    â€œAlready? Alone?”
    Bay laughed. “If she’s still Tansy, it’s probably not alone, but I can’t see her working that fast. Even she’s not that good.”
    â€œWhat does Ashley think of her?”
    â€œShe’s in love with her.”
    Gertie continued to crunch. “And you’re afraid you’re not going to measure up, is that it?”
    â€œSomething like that.”
    â€œOf course Ashley’s going to be thrilled with her. You guys have been missing your mom for a year, and now a relative comes home who’s beautiful, sophisticated, and exciting. I’m sure to Ashley she’s the epitome of everything cool. But for heaven’s sake, you’re her mother. She’s not going to love Tansy more than you.”
    Bay looked away. Gertie stayed quiet, except to rattle the bag every so often. Bay glanced at her pal. “I’m letting Tansy buy her a prom dress.”
    Gertie’s eyes got big. “What do you mean? You made her one. It’s adorable.”
    Bay shrugged. “Not adorable enough, apparently. When Tansy suggested it and I agreed, Ashley ran out of the house and was so excited. I hate that I can’t provide things that put that kind of smile on her face.”
    â€œGee whiz, you worked hard on that dress. How easy is it to slap down a Visa card? I think that’s crummy.”
    Bay smiled. “I knew you’d stick up for me. But when you’re seventeen, it’s all about looks. I want her to be happy.”
    â€œBut…”
    â€œIt’s done.”
    â€œOkay.” Gertie rolled up the bag of Doritos, put them beside her, and then licked her fingers clean. “So, Bay, can I ask you something?”
    â€œShoot.”
    â€œIf I ever have a daughter, will you make her prom dress?”
    Bay leaned her head against Gertie’s shoulder. Gertie patted her knee.

    When Tansy drove to the gas station there was no one there. She looked at the time. It was 9:40. She decided she’d wait for five more minutes and if he wasn’t there by then, she’d continue on alone.
    Every time a car went by she wondered if it was him. Finally it was. A truck came towards her and parked beside her car. He smiled at her but sat for a few seconds as if debating whether to get out. It unnerved her. Most men jumped at the chance to be in her company. She looked at those dark brooding eyes and decided his uncertainty made him more attractive.
    When he got out of the truck, she tossed her head towards the passenger door of her car. Dermot walked over, opened the door, and got in. He smelled heavenly, which was a complete surprise.
    â€œHi.”
    â€œHi, Dermot. It’s good to see you.”
    He looked nervous and awkward in her fancy car. He said, “You look nice.”
    â€œThank you.”
    He slapped his knees. “So, where to?”
    She took the keys out of the ignition. “How about we go in your truck?”
    He seemed surprised. “Oh, sure.” He looked around. “But you better not leave your car here. How about I put it in the garage? That way it will be safe.”
    â€œOkay,” she smiled. “Whatever you think.”
    He got out of the car and went over to the garage doors to unlock them. She fired up the engine and manoeuvred the car through the tight space.