“Positive. Anything I need to know? Allergies, likes, dislikes?”
“No allergies, he prefers snack foods, and his favorite is macaroni and cheese.”
“Perfect. I made homemade macaroni and cheese last night. I can heat some of that up for lunch.”
“Calum, Mommy is going to go for a little bit. You be good for Margaret, okay?”
He didn’t even look up. “Bye, Mama.”
I laughed. “Bye, buddy. I’ll write my number on a piece of paper on the counter if you need me. I’ll just be next door working.”
“Take your time, dear.”
“Thank you.”
I went straight for my laptop, set it up on the island, and made myself a large pot of tea so I could get through everything. If I could get ahead of my work, I’d have happy clients, and I wouldn’t have to do too much over the next few days.
As soon as I sat down, my phone went off with a text.
Bestie: We still on for dinner tonight?
Me: Yes. Where do you want to go?
Bestie: I’m thinking buffet for the little man. He can pick what he wants.
Me: Ugh, I hate that place.
Bestie: Suck it up, Mama. It’s for Calum.
Me: Fine!
Bestie: Don’t sulk. I’ll drive. How’s five?
Me: Sounds good. Gotta get some work done. See you tonight.
Bestie: Later, whore.
I laid down my phone and got to work. I whipped through everything, and before I knew it, it was two o’clock. Holy shit. I rushed over to Margaret’s, feeling horrible that I’d gotten lost in my work. There was a note on the door that said Do not disturb; there’s a little one sleeping. I debated for a moment, then walked in slowly, Margaret was sitting on the sofa watching a soap opera. She looked over before getting up and indicated for me to follow her. We sat out back on the porch.
“I’m sorry I was gone so long. I got caught up in work, and before I knew it, I looked at the time, and it was already two.” I felt awful.
“Jules, don’t apologize. I’m glad you got what you needed done. I’m happy to help. He’s such a doll; a true joy to have around. Thank you for letting me care for him. We had a great time. He had so much fun that he tuckered himself out. He went down without a fuss and has been down for a couple hours.”
“He’s a good napper that’s for sure. I’m so pleased you guys had a good time.”
“We really did. It’s so great to have a little one around again. Tomorrow, what time will you be heading to your moms?”
“Oh, I was thinking around lunchtime. Does that work for you?”
“That’s perfect. I’m going to run to the store in the morning to grab some stuff for Calum for lunch.”
“Oh Margaret, please let me bring his food. That’s the least I could do.”
“Nonsense, I truly enjoy this. I know you feel like I’m doing you a favor, but you’re actually doing me one.”
I leaned over and hugged her. “Thank you. This is great. Not only for me but for Calum. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay you.”
“Seeing a child play in that room again is payment enough.” She grinned.
When Calum woke up, it was past three, and all he wanted to do was play. I promised him that he’d be able to come back tomorrow. He was less than impressed that he couldn’t stay, but he was also excited to see Taylor.
We went home and got ready for dinner, opting for a bath before we went out in case we ran late.
Taylor arrived right on time. Dinner was actually pretty good. Apparently, someone bought the restaurant a few years back, and the food had improved tenfold. Thank God. It was the best choice for Calum. He loved choosing his food and that he could get more when he wanted, plus the dessert bar after, he was in heaven.
Taylor took us back home where we all hung out. While Calum was occupied with his iPad, I told Taylor all about the disaster with Calum visiting Mom and how I broke down in the car. I also told her about my new fairy godmother, Margaret.
“That’s so amazing, Jules. Hey, do you think she’d watch him for you on Saturday night for girls’ night? Would be more fun than my mom.”
“I can ask her. She is so amazing with him, and he loves it there. Wait until you see the place.”
Calum’s show was over, so I put him down to bed.
“I better get going, Jules. I have an early morning meeting, but I’ll text you tomorrow. I know I’ve said this already, but I love that you’re home. I’ve missed you.” She hugged me tightly.
“I’m glad to be home, too, Taylor.” Honestly, I was a little surprised that I meant it.
15
Jules
It was Wednesday morning, and I was in an awesome mood. Calum woke up and went on the potty, I successfully programmed the coffeemaker, and I received a beautiful bouquet of flowers with a card that read:
Can’t wait for this weekend
I’d been a little down this last week, so this new feeling was very welcome. Calum was so ecstatic to hang out with Margaret, he ran to her house without hesitation, which made leaving him so much easier.
On my way to see my mom, I stopped by Maggie’s to grab Mama a tea. She’d been complaining about the hospital tea, saying it tasted like toilet water; her words, not mine.
Walking in the door, I was greeted by the hostess.
“Good morning, how can I help you?”
“Morning, I’m looking for Maggie. Is she around?”
The hostess’s smile fell, and she glared at me without responding.
“Umm, is she around?”
She rolled her eyes before answering me. “Yes, she’ll be right over there at that counter.”
“Thanks so much. Have a great day.”
She huffed and went back to whatever she was doing. Wow! Bitch much? I wasn’t about to let her get my day down. I saw Maggie leaned over behind the counter.
“Hey, Maggie.”
She looked up and squinted. “Oh my Lord, is that you, Julianne Davis?”
I smiled, she was such a sweet woman. “Yes, ma’am. How’ve you been?”
She ran around the counter and enveloped me in a huge hug before pulling back to hold me at arm’s length. “It’s so great to see you. I’m sorry to hear about your mama. How’s she doing?”
I sighed. “Honestly, I’m not sure. I’m headed there this morning, and I’m going to try to get some answers. She seemed to be better than last week, but I don’t know for sure.”
“Please pass on my well wishes, and I will keep her in my prayers.” She patted my shoulder.
“I will, thank you.”
She walked back around the counter. “So, enough of the sappy stuff. What brings you in here?”
“I need tea for Mama. She’s complaining about the choices at Mercy, something about toilet water.”
She laughed. “Of course, dear.” She leaned down. “Oh darn, I’m out of to-go cups.” She looked around me. “Sherry, run to the back and grab some cups.”
I heard the girl groan and walk by, hitting me with her shoulder as she did. I realized where I knew her from. I waited for her to go into the back.
“Is that Sherry Dews?”
Maggie made sure that no one was listening and leaned in.
“The one and only, if you thought she was a peach back in high school, she’s so much peachier now.” She rolled her eyes.
I laughed. I really shouldn’t have, but Sherry was a mean girl in school to put it lightly.
“I wish I hadn’t hired her, but her poor mama needs the help. I was trying to do the right thing by offering, but she’s rude to customers and gives me a hard time with every task I give her.”
“She was not so nice to me when I came in. Looks like she hasn’t changed a bit.”
“We all know why she doesn’t like you. Every single girl in this town dreams of landing Hunter Rivers. They all know his heart is yours and have a delusion that one of them will break the spell.”
I laughed hyst
erically. “You’re kidding, right? Hunter and I have been split up forever. He’s as much mine as he is yours.”
She smiled softly at me. “Oh sweetie, you couldn’t be more wrong. You’ll see one day what everyone else already knows. I know it’s hard to see something that’s staring you right in the face.”
“Whatever you say, Maggie.” I rolled my eyes at her like a child.
“Don’t you get saucy with me, young lady.”
She took my hand on the counter. “He loves you; he never stopped.” We both turned at the sound of a snicker.
“Here are your cups, Maggie. So great to see you again, Julianne. Glad you’re back in town.” She gave me another glare, telling me she hadn’t meant a word she’d just said, and then turned and walked away.
“She’s such a ray of sunshine.” We both laughed.
“Don’t let any of the girls in this town get to you, Jules. You deserve happiness.”
She handed me a cup of hot tea, along with a cup of cold milk. “Thank you, Maggie.”
“Any time, darlin’. Oh hey, you better bring that cute little boy I keep hearing about in to see me.”
“I promise, as soon as I catch my breath, I’ll bring him in. He’ll love your macaroni and cheese.”
“It’s a deal. Say hi to your mama for me, and Hunter, too.” She winked and walked away before I had a chance to say anything.
I walked out of Maggie’s, shaking my head and smiling from ear to ear. This town! I’d missed it. It was good to be back, even if it was just temporarily.
The fourth floor seemed to be all a buzz today. “Good morning, Susan. What’s all the fuss about?”
Susan looked up and smiled at me. “Morning, Jules. It’s Doctor Naughton’s birthday on Friday, and since he’s off the next few days, we decided to celebrate today. He wasn’t happy about it.” She laughed.
Just then Bradley came walking around the corner. “Do you see all this craziness? It’s just another day. I don’t know why people make such a big deal over birthdays.” He shook his head, clearly exasperated.
“But it’s your birthday. It’s cause for celebration. Happy birthday!” I smiled.
“It’s not even my birthday today, and I already have a great birthday planned.”
“What are you doing?” I asked.
“Going to dinner and movies.”
“Sounds like fun.” I smiled.
“It should be.”
Susan came up just then. “Is he complaining again? He should be thankful,” she joked. “How is your day so far, Jules? Don’t let the good doctor here ruin it with his crankiness.”
“Great actually. I’m not usually a morning person, but this morning has been great. I even got flowers.” I blushed a little.
“Oh? Does someone have a secret admirer?”
I shook my head still smiling, but before I could speak, I was cut off.
“It’s never been a secret how I feel about Jules.” Just the sound of his voice had my stomach doing somersaults.
I closed my eyes. I couldn’t help it. I was not ready to see him, but I was excited all the same. Wait, did he just say how he feels? As in present tense?
He touched the small of my back ever so slightly igniting my whole body. Leaning in, he brushed his lips against my cheek, and my eyes snapped open. Is that a beard? I turned to see for myself, and he was right there. His lips were a mere inch from mine.
“Hi, Jules.” He was smirking at me, was he always this sexy?
Say something, move your mouth. “Uh, um, hey, Hunter.” Smooth, stutter much?
I looked away for a second, but my body betrayed me by turning back to take him in again. He was still smirking at me like he could read my mind.
“I’m sorry. I’m just in shock. How are you?” I gave him a hug, that was a normal thing to do right now, I believed.
Hunter wrapped his arms around me tightly. I didn’t want him to let go; it felt so good to be in his arms. When I finally pulled back, he kept his hand on my waist.
“Morning, Doctor. How’s Stephanie today?” Hunter asked.
Bradley smiled. “Why don’t you go ask her yourself? She seems to be in good spirits.”
Hunter looked down at me. “I think I’ll wait for Jules. I’d like to speak to her before we go in to see her mother.”
“I actually have a few questions for Bradley. Do you mind answering them?” A few minutes away from Hunter to calm my nerves might help.
“I will answer what I can.” He smiled.
“I’ll wait for you over there.” Hunter indicated a chair a few feet away.
“All right.” I forced a smile. I was not the least bit prepared to see him, and he seemed so comfortable like this wasn’t affecting him in the least.
16
Hunter
I couldn’t help myself, seeing her standing there with that doctor; it had me all kinds of pissed off. Secret admirer? Hell no, there were no secrets here. I wanted to pound that smile right off his face.
I knew she would be here. Maggie mentioned it when I went in to get a hot tea for Stephanie, but I had to admit it was perfect timing that they were talking about my flowers, though. It looked like the heavens above are looking out for me, finally.
I couldn’t believe she was on a first-name basis with him, what the fuck?
I probably could’ve given them a little privacy, but fuck him. Why don’t you go ask her for yourself? Why don’t you go fuck yourself, Doctor?
I pulled out my phone and stopped my inner musings while trying to pull myself together. I was sure it was nothing. She was probably just being the sweet Jules I’d known her to be. There didn’t seem to be anything romantic going on, was there?
They were just talking about her mom’s health. Get it together, Hunter. They approached a few minutes later.
“Sounds good, sorry I wasn’t able to answer all your questions, Jules. It was great seeing you again, Hunter,” he said.
I nodded without looking up. “Great seeing you too, Doc.” I wasn’t sure why I was being such a dick; he really didn’t do anything wrong.
Jules’s feet came into view, and I heard her take in a deep breath. Good, she was nervous. Any feelings are a plus, I thought.
“Hunter, you should probably loosen up on your phone there; your fingers are losing color.” She was teasing me, another good sign.
I looked up to see the full view of her for the first time in eight years. She was even more beautiful than I remembered. Photos and memories have not done her justice. I smiled up at her. “Jules.” Her name came out as a whisper. The confidence I projected earlier had vanished, and I was back to that awkward high school kid again.
I got to my feet with my heart in my throat. I was staring, but I didn’t care. It had just been too long, and I wanted to take in every inch of her. She was gorgeous. Her hair was longer and darker than I remembered. I cleared my throat. I couldn’t believe how nervous I was. “You look amazing. How are you?”
She looked down at her hands and shuffled her feet just like she always did.
“Hey, look at me.”
She looked up with tears in her eyes.
I didn’t want her to cry. I pushed her hair behind her ear. “What’s wrong?”
She shook her head. “I just.” She reached up to touch my beard and smiled. I guess I looked different. I forgot about that.
“You like it?” I hoped she did. I could shave it off, but I’d gotten used to it.
She laughed softly. “I do. It suits you, and I like the longer hair.” She ran her fingers through the strands, and my eyes closed at her touch, but her hand was gone too quickly.
“I’m sorry, I—” She didn’t complete her sentence.
“I’m not,” I muttered.
She smiled shyly up at me.
“We should probably get in there to see your mom. I don’t want her tea to get cold.” I lifted up the tray that was on the seat.
She laughed and pointed to the counter where an ide
ntical pair of cups sat. “Guess we both had the same idea.”
“Guess we did. Let’s go in and see how she’s doing.” I indicated with my hand for her to proceed ahead of me.
We headed in together. I couldn’t help but touch her as we walked, even just my hand on her back was enough, for now.
Stephanie’s eyes lit up when she saw us walk in the room. “Dreams do come true,” she said.
I smiled at her. God, I loved Stephanie. She’d been rooting for us since day one. I just hoped we could get Jules on board.
“Seriously, Mama?” She sounded annoyed but had a smile on her face. She walked over and gave her a hug. “How are you feeling?”
Seeing them together made my throat tight. I wished I could hold her and tell her everything would be all right.
“I’m good, baby girl. How are things with you two?” Stephanie looked at me. “Hunter, it’s a pleasure to see you, especially with my girl.” She winked at me. That woman.
“Mama! We literally just saw each other for the first time in what feels like forever. Can you please give it a rest?”
Stephanie rolled her eyes. “You always were a stubborn child.” She was playing with her, but I didn’t want her to push Jules too far.
“I’m great, Stephanie. We both brought you tea, so maybe we can get the nurse to put one in the fridge for you to heat up later?”
“That would be lovely. Thank you. Looks like you think the same as well.”
Jules laughed nervously and looked over at me. I shrugged.
“She’s been like this for eight long years. What do you expect now that we’re in the same room?”
“She’s been like this since I left?” She looked a little shocked. “I’m so sorry you had to deal with that all this time.” She smirked, teasing of course.
“It was so horrible. You owe me big-time.” My tone was dripping with sarcasm.
Wrecked by Her (Like a Hurricane Duet Book 1) Page 9