Book 15: Seven Years

Marianna

I don’t realize I’m gripping Blake’s hand until his fingers loosen and fall away from mine. I tuck my hands behind my back, taking a deep breath to rein myself in while he stuffs his hands in his pockets–a very uncharacteristic motion that I notice, like he’s nervous.

But of course he is.

He hasn’t seen Skye since the day she was born, and I feel… awful about that now that I can see his face as he looks at her, seven years later, cautiously taking her in.

And Skye is looking right at him. She slides off the chair, her hands resting at her sides. She chose her outfit today. Denim overalls, a black shirt, her hair loose and falling down her back. The only pop of color she wanted was her shoes, which were a birthday present from her grammy in hopes Skye would start liking color again.

Skye inspects Blake from head to toe while I hold my breath for both of them.

I know Blake. I used to, at least. Maybe he’s changed in the sev