Chapter 43
He was cleaning. Not just a straightening to bring chaos to his messiness, actual cleaning. She watched him, his last words from a few days before on repeat in her head.
"You missed a spot."
To his credit, he only tensed for a second. "I guess that's what happens when you don't clean regularly."
"Probably."
He turned to look at her, "Care to tell me what I missed?"
She shrugged, "Now where would be the fun in that?"
He laughed, easily, comfortably. "It's good to see you, Val."
"I thought you might want a bit of space." She paused, unsure of what to say next. "How's Laura?"
"She's good."
"Is she the source of this cleaning bout?"
Robbie blushed, looking away to hide the smile. "Well, this isn't awkward at all."
"Sorry, Robbie. I shouldn't tease."
Confidently, he turned back to her, evenly met her concerned gaze. "It's OK. I wouldn't be here if not for you." He paused, watching her. Would have sworn he could hear an intake of breath. "Thank you, Val. For guiding me, pushing, cajoling but most of all for loving me."
She nodded, tears building in her eyes, "All I've ever wanted is for you to be happy, Robbie."
"I know. And I am. She makes me happy."
"I love you, Robbie."
"I love you, bonnie lass. Always and forever."
"It's time."
He nodded, a single tear falling down his cheek, "I know."
"One last bit of advice before I go."
"I'd love that."
She turned slowly, spinning in the center of the room before facing him and meeting his gaze. "Spruce up the place a bit."
"Goodbye, Val."
As she faded from his sight, merely a wisp of his imagination he heard her last words, "Goodbye, Robbie.