He figured his name had been mud in the house for solong, he wasn't sure how he'd be received. But the Lanes were gracious people, slightly more educated and affluent than most in Messina. If they held a grudge, and he was certain one was being held, they wouldn't show it. Not the parents anyway.
"I'm fine," he said.
"Would you come in?" she said, opening the door. It was a halfhearted gesture.
"Sure, thanks." In the foyer, he looked around and said, "Still a beautiful home, Mrs. Lane."
"Thank you. Could I get you some tea?"
"No, thanks.Actually, I'm looking for Cameron. Is she here?"
"She is."
"I'd like to say hello."
"I'm very sorry about Coach Rake. I know he meant everything to you boys."
"Yes ma'am." He was glancing around, listening for voices in the back of the house.
"I'll find Cameron," she said and disappeared. Neely waited, and waited, and finally turned to the large oval window in the front door and watched the dark street.
There was a footstep behind him, then a familiar voice. "HelloNeely ," Cameron said. He turned and they stared at each other. Words failed him for the moment, so he shrugged and finally blurted, "I was just driving by, thought I'd say hello. It's been a long time."
"It has."
The gravity of his mistake hit hard.
She was much prettier than in high school. Her thick auburn hair was pulled back into a ponytail. Her dark blue eyes were adorned with chic designer frames. She wore a bulky cotton sweater and tight faded jeans that declared that this was a lady who stayed in shape. "You look great," he said as he admired her.
"You too."
"Can we talk?"