Wayward Hearts Read Online Free PDF

from the cupboard.
    Irritation rose in waves through Maxi’s body. “I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t talk to my former friend about me behind my back.” In some small corner of her brain, she knew she was overreacting, but she was powerless to stop the tide. She paced to the far side of the room, the words of her last encounter with Jason echoing in her head.
    “If you can’t be happy I’ve found someone I care about, you might as well…”
    “I might as well what, Hanley?”
    She remembered the uncontrollable anger, flashing like fire, fueled by his words.
    “You might as well leave and never come back.”
    The hurt had seared through her, cutting off her breath. Her whole body had shaken with the thought that Jason had chosen Susie over her. Did their friendship mean so little to him?
    “Don’t worry. That’s exactly what I intend to do,” she’d yelled back.
    Those had been their last words to each other before she’d slammed out the door. The next day, she’d left without even saying good-bye.
    The touch of Lily’s hand on her arm made her jump.
    “Hey, I didn’t mean to upset you. It’s just that I miss you, and I’m worried about you.”
    Maxi released a deep breath and let Lily’s apology soften the anger inside. “It’s not your fault. I don’t have the energy to deal with past baggage right now. I’ve got enough problems with the farm and my mother.”
    Lily pulled her into a tight embrace, the warmth of her large belly as comforting as her compassion. Maxi stepped away before tears could blossom, and Lily moved to the counter, poured lemonade into two tall glasses, and handed one to Maxi. “So tell me about this partnership.”
    Maxi took a sip of the tart liquid, grateful for the change in topic. “It’s exactly the type of thing I’ve dreamed about. Which is why I have to get back. I need to work on my portfolio and let Philippe know I’m serious about this promotion.”
    “What about your mom? Has she made a decision yet?”
    Maxi swirled the contents of her glass and frowned. “Mama says she’ll go into a home, but I don’t know if I can let her do that.”
    Lily patted her arm. “What a terrible position to be in. I guess Bernice wouldn’t move to New York with you.” It was more of a statement than a question.
    “No. She’s lived her whole life in this town. It wouldn’t be fair to make her leave her friends, her church, and everything she’s familiar with.”
    Lily nodded her agreement. “I’ll pray for you and your mom. I know God will help you find the right solution.”
    An uncomfortable sensation stiffened Maxi’s spine. As much as her own faith had lagged in recent years, she didn’t like to dampen anyone else’s. “Thanks.”
    Maxi’s cell phone rang. She read the name on the display and answered. “Hi, Jason.”
    “Hey. How’s your visit with Lily going?”
    She glanced over at her friend, who motioned for her to go on. “Just finishing up.”
    “Good. You still want to get together?”
    “I guess, if you have the time.” Could she sound any more unenthusiastic?
    “I’m almost finished here. Why don’t you meet me out back?”
    Lily waved madly, pointing to the pitcher of lemonade.
    Maxi rolled her eyes. “Lily wants to know if you’d like some lemonade.”
    His chuckle echoed through the phone. “I’d love some.”
    “Be out in a minute.”
    Lily was already pouring the drink into a tall plastic glass when Maxi disconnected. Dread pooled in her stomach, combining with the acid of the lemonade to make her somewhat queasy.
    Lily held out the glass. “Go talk to him. You’ll feel better. I promise.”
    Maxi sighed and headed out the back door, feeling like a prisoner about to face the firing squad.
     
    ****
     
    Jason wielded the clippers with extra force, trying to steady his nerves. He hoped it’d be easier to talk out in the open while he worked, instead of being stuck behind a table in some noisy coffee shop.
    His hands dampened