Losing Penny (32 page)

I put my hands on my hips and slipped into my
Miss Emma no nonsense art instructor voice. “I
really
can’t
comment on that.”

He laughed. “I get it. Hailey’s Comments—no
comment.”

I gave him a weak smile. “You overheard me
talking about lemons while standing in the produce section.”

“So you do remember.”

“
Maybe
it sounded like something
Hailey would say, but I’m sure you just…” I faltered a moment, but
then regrouped and gathered my wits. “I’m sure you either heard
wrong or it was just a coincidence.” More lies. Sticky lies.

He studied me for a long, quiet moment then
asked, “What were you talking about?”

“Lemons obviously.”

“Lemons aren’t that interesting.”

I shrugged and squirmed beneath his gaze.
“I’m boring.”

“No, I don’t think so.”

“Well, this conversation is boring.”

“Really?”

“Yes, look at Savannah.” His daughter stood
in front of the dry erase board, drawing flying goddesses. “I’m
sure she wants to go home…as do I.”

He cocked his head, but didn’t budge from the
art table. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to keep you.” The dying winter
sun back lit his blond hair. “Or offend you.”

“Offense can’t be given if not received.” The
words just popped out. I was spouting platitudes and clichés.

I wondered if I would enjoy his laughter if I
didn’t feel it was directed at me.