“I say you play the friend card. Be there for her. Show her what she’s been missing without trying to get back together. I think just having you around will be enough for her to realize that she can’t live without you, anymore.”
I shook my head, she thought this was so easy.
“Don’t you shake your head at me. She loves you, and I know that for a fact,” she said smugly.
“She told you that?” My eyes went wide as I leaned in toward her.
She slapped her hand to her mouth but quickly pulled it away. “You know what? Fuck it. This is for my best friend, so I’m going to break code. I’m not going into details, but yes, she is still in love with you.”
“She actually said those words?” My voice came out in a whisper. I had hoped, but to hear this from her best friend, I was a little shocked.
She smiled big and nodded her head. “She did.”
I tried to keep my cool, but inside I was jumping up and down like a five-year-old. “Well shit. I’d hoped I had a chance, but this is a game changer. You really think the friend approach will work?” I was in complete awe at finding out this new information.
“Definitely. Once you’re back in her life, she won’t want to let you go. And as long as Calum likes you, you’re golden.”
“Kids and I are like this.” I crossed my fingers and winked.
“Then you’re good to go.”
The chair beside me screeched as it’s pulled back, and we both looked over to see Desiree. Ugh, what the hell did she want?
“Of course, take a seat. You aren’t interrupting or anything.” Taylor had a what-the-fuck look on her face as she watched Desiree sit down.
“Thanks, Taylor. Don’t mind if I do.” Desiree’s voice was like nails on a chalkboard.
“To what do we owe the pleasure, Desiree?” I gritted out through clenched teeth.
The feeling of her hand on my thigh made me flinch, but my knee smacked against the table leg with nowhere to go. Her hand crept up a little too high, so I gripped her hand and moved it to her own lap. That didn’t deter her, as she leaned in with a devilish smirk on her face.
Her lips brushed against my cheek as she spoke in my ear. “I heard about Davis. I’m so sorry. I know how close y’all were. I thought maybe I could come by tonight and take your mind off things.” Her attempt at sounding all honey and sweetness was laughable. She was anything but.
My body jerked back. The mental image of being with her again made my stomach turn. She couldn’t be serious; it was like this woman couldn’t take a hint.
“Thank you for the”—I swallowed hard, trying to get the words out—“lovely offer, but I’m good.”
She tried to reach over again, but I shifted my body so my legs were on the other side of my seat. “Are you sure, Huntie?” She batted her long, fake eyelashes.
I rolled my eyes so hard I feared they’d stay that way. I despised when she calls me Huntie. It made me cringe every time.
“Ugh, seriously, Desiree. First off, don’t call him that. Can’t you take a hint? He’s clearly not into you.” Taylor was completely irritated, and I loved it.
I could kiss Taylor right now, platonically, of course. I couldn’t be a dick. It was just not in me, but Taylor, she could say whatever she wanted to the girl.
The look that Desiree shot Taylor could kill, it made me chuckle, which caused Desiree to turn and look at me with a raised brow.
“Are you going to let her talk to me like that?” Her whiney voice grated on my nerves.
“Listen, I’m sorry, but I’m not interested. I thought I’d made that clear a few times. You know where my heart lies, and that isn’t going to change.” My tone was firm. I didn’t want her to think there was any room for argument.
Crossing her arms, she huffed, clearly frustrated. “Whatever. I don’t know why you’re still pining after that bitch. It’s been what? Ten years? Jesus, you’re like a lost puppy. I mean, she even has a kid. Who wants all that baggage?”
Taylor went to get up. I had no doubt she was ready to slap her, but I put my hand out to stop her.
“I do.” I pointed to my chest, emphasizing my words. “I would wait another ten years to be in her life. You aren’t even close to the woman she is, and her having a child is a bonus. Don’t ever think that you have anything on Jules because you could only hope that one day you are half the woman she is.” My voice sounded cold. I was beyond pissed right now.
She opened her mouth to interrupt, but I shut that down quick.
“No, please don’t speak. You’ve said plenty, but evidently, I haven’t made it clear enough to you, so let me spell it out. I love Julianne, and I will always love her, no matter what happens.”
Taylor took the opportunity to interject. “Now, we all know how you love to spread gossip, so spread this, Hunter is spoken for. So all y’all skanks can stop trying.” Taylor shooed her away like she meant nothing.
“Whatever. You deserve her. Go play baby daddy to someone else’s kid, see if I care.” The sound of the chair pushing back from the table was loud but welcoming. She nearly knocked Heather over who was standing there with our food.
“You can spread that, too, Heather.” Taylor’s triumphant smile had me laughing hysterically.
Heather didn’t say anything, just placed our orders on the table and walked away.
“It’s a wonder no one’s snatched you up, yet.” I grinned broadly.
“Fuck off. I’m seeing someone.” She rolled her eyes.
My brow rose in question. “Oh? We’re seeing someone, are we?”
Her face went pale; clearly, she didn’t want to talk about this.
“Cat got your tongue?” I arched a brow, egging her on.
“Ugh, well, not really. It’s nothing,” she stammered.
“Interesting. So, let me get this straight. You’re seeing someone, but not really? I think you can give me a little more than that, don’t you?” I was messing with her of course, but I was a little more than curious.
“Exactly. We’re really more like fuck buddies. No emotional attachment.”
“Mhm. Right.” I knew she was full of shit by the blush that was creeping up her cheeks.
She crossed her arms over her chest, getting defensive. “What do you mean by that?”
“Nothing, nothing at all, Tays. But as soon as it turns into something more, I want to know about it.”
“Deal.” I had a feeling I knew exactly who her fuck buddy was. I wasn’t stupid, but I’d let them tell me when they were ready. Honestly, I thought they’d be great for each other if they ever pulled their heads out of their asses.
We kept the rest of our conversation light as we ate our lunch before we both headed back to work.
22
Jules
Calum nearly passed out in the car on the way home from the Everglades, but I was able to keep him occupied long enough for us to get back to the house, get dinner in his tummy, and tuck him into bed.
Taylor was grabbing us some wine; don’t judge, I was grieving. I was currently sitting in the hot tub, and trying everything I could to stop my mind from wandering to tomorrow. I didn’t know how I was going to get through it. The funeral would be reality slapping me in the face. I had so many people around me that were here to help, but I just wished I could curl up in bed and do nothing for days. Unfortunately, as a mom, I had to push everything deep down to keep myself going.
I heard footsteps behind me, and then a large glass of wine was stuck out in front of my face, I took it and placed it on the ledge before grabbing the hand and pretending to inspect it. “Why, Taylor, what big hands you have.”
I heard a gruff laugh and turned to see Hunter with a big smile on his face. I just stared at him not saying a word. I couldn’t help it. He was just so—there was honestly no word to describe him. I’ll go with sexy as fuck.
“Surprise,” he said looking a little shy. “I’m sorry to keep dropping in like this. I tried to talk myself out of coming
, but I needed to see you.” His voice was unsure.
I felt like a bitch. He probably misunderstood my staring for what the fuck are you doing here instead of you’re hot and I want to jump your bones. I hopped up out of the hot tub and gave him a big hug, not worrying about getting him wet.
“Thank you, Hunter. I really appreciate you coming by. Please don’t ever apologize for being sweet.” I kissed his cheek and squeezed him tightly, again. I finally felt his arms wrap around me. I think I caught him off guard.
His body started to relax as he kept hold of me. “Thanks, Jules.” I felt his breath on my ear, and a shiver ran down my spine. How did he do this to me after all these years? Hunter didn’t let me get too far when I pulled back. He kept his arms around me, resting low on my hips and gazed into my eyes for a minute before he spoke. “Do you mind if I hang out for a bit?” He was so cute when he was nervous.
“Of course not. Did you see Taylor when you came through the house?” I looked around him, still in his arms.
“Yeah, she said she had to run home to grab a few things.” He shrugged.
“Sure, she did.” I smirked up at him. “I call bullshit on that one. Taylor grabbed everything she needed yesterday, but whatever.”
He chuckled and grabbed my hand to pull me to sit on the love seat with him.
“So, how was work today?” I turned and caught him staring at me.
“Ugh, it sucked. I don’t usually work weekends, but we had to catch up. This job has a deadline, and if we don’t make it, we get fined a few grand a day, so working on the weekend is kind of a must. Plus, it helps me stay busy.”
“Wow, that’s a lot of money. I don’t blame you. Well, you missed a fun day at the boardwalk. You should’ve seen Calum. He had so much fun. He would scream and jump with every gator he saw. It was so weird to have him in a place that I grew up going to. It was nice to experience that with him.” I was gushing, but I loved experiencing things through my son’s eyes.
“I wish I was there, really. If Mike were able to be there today, I would have been with you in a second, but his wife would kill him if he worked on a Sunday. Since it’s just me, I’m always there.” He seemed a little melancholy.
“Ah, don’t worry. One day you’ll have a family, and you’ll be the one getting yelled at for working on Sundays.” I laughed but noticed he wasn’t laughing with me. “I’m kidding, Hunter.” I slapped him on the arm playfully.
He stared at me with a look I couldn’t place. “One day.” He reached over and put a lock of hair behind my ear. “One day.” His hand lingered by my cheek.
I averted my eyes, trying to look anywhere but at him. “So, what is the job you’re working on?” Great job, Jules, real smooth.
“Nice subject change.” He smiled slightly. “How about we don’t talk about work if you don’t mind. Let’s talk about you. How are you doing?” Did he have to be all serious?
“That’s not something I really want to talk about either. I’m dealing.” I smiled, but it was forced.
He turned to face me straight on and took my hand. “You’re dealing? Are you sure?”
I sighed. “I’m taking it one day at a time. I can’t exactly have a breakdown; I have a toddler to take care of. I’m sure tomorrow will be a different story. Margaret and Taylor will be there to take Calum for me in case I have a complete meltdown.” I laughed, but it was fake, trying not to look him in the eyes.
“Jules, look at me.”
When I didn’t look up, he lifted my chin with his finger.
“I’m here, too. Please know that. I know you have Taylor and Margaret, but you have me, too. Lean on me. I’ll do anything for you, and if you don’t need me, I’m told I’m pretty good with kids, too.” He winked, trying to make light of the conversation.
“Thank you. You may regret offering when I’m a sniveling mess tomorrow. I’ll most likely need you by my side to help hold me up, especially while I read her eulogy. I’m horrible at public speaking, so this is going to be a disaster.” I sighed.
Hunter put his arm around me and pulled me into his side. “I’ll be wherever you need me.”
We sat there in silence, completely lost in thought. I could’ve sat here like that forever. God, I missed him. It felt the same but different. Inside he was unchanged, but the outside was wrapped up in a much manlier package.
We were snapped out of our moment by the sound of the back door closing.
“Shit, sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.”
I looked up to see my best friend smirking with an I told you so look on her face.
“You’re most definitely interrupting,” Hunter said jokingly. “Come have a seat.” He moved us over to give Taylor room, but he gave her way more than necessary so we were closer together. He patted the seat beside him.
Taylor gave me a look asking if it was okay. I nodded, and she came to sit beside us.
Hunter put his arm around her as well. “Man, it’s been a long time since it’s been the three of us. Feels good, doesn’t it?” He was right; it did feel good.
“Just like old times,” I said as I snuggled in a little closer to his side. I wished we could stay like this and skip over tomorrow. I wasn’t ready to deal.
I wished I had a pause button just for moments like this.
23
Jules
If I kept my eyes closed, would they forget about me and just let me sleep the day away? I rolled over and pulled the covers in closer, keeping my lids shut tight. I couldn’t do this today; I couldn’t say goodbye.
There was a light knock on the door before it creaked open. Taylor crawled into bed with me and cuddled close. She didn’t say a word, just held me.
“I can’t do this, Tays.” My voice cracked. I took a deep breath to compose myself before continuing. “I’m holding on by a thread, and I’m so close to snapping. I don’t know how I’m going to get out of bed, never mind get through the whole day.”
She sighed. “I know. It’s going to be one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, but you’re going to get out of bed, and you’re going to get through today for your mama. Today is a day to celebrate her life. Today of all days, I want you to try to be optimistic. She’s in a better place. She’s not suffering. She’s happy and watching over y’all. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, but you’re strong, and you’ll get through it.”
“I don’t know how.” A tear slid down my cheek, and I wiped it away.
“One step at a time, hun. Margaret’s already here to pick up Calum, so he’s taken care of. And I’m here to help you take each and every one of the steps you need to take. Hunter is here, too.” Her voice was tender.
I turned to face her. “He is?”
She smiled. “Of course. He’s been here for over an hour. I told you, he’s not going anywhere.”
I didn’t know why I was surprised; that was part of what I loved about him. I’d always known he would be here for me, no matter what happened over the years.
“It’s early. You can take your time getting ready. Why don’t you come down and grab some coffee and wake up a bit before you start?”
“Caffeine sounds perfect.” I got up, grabbed a hoodie to throw on, and headed downstairs.
Walking around the corner into the kitchen, I walked right into Hunter, nearly falling on my ass, but he caught me. I steadied myself, gripping his biceps.
“Shit, are you all right?” Concern laced his tone.
“I’m fine. Sorry, I didn’t see you.” I didn’t know how I missed him; he was bigger than I remembered. I looked at him and that damn smile of his lit up my world.
“Good morning. Tea or coffee? I’ve already had a couple cups, so I’m set for a couple days now.” He laughed.
“You’re such a dork. Tea would be great. Two bags, please.” I smiled and walked around to sit at the island.
“Coming right up. Taylor, you want anything?” He started to make my tea; of course he knew how I took it; he never forgot a thing.
>
“I’m good, thanks.” Taylor came to sit beside me. Smiling, she reached over and squeezed my hand.
When Hunter turned around to grab the milk, he had to bend over. Taylor, being the twelve-year-old she is, pointed and pretended to smack his ass in the air. I burst out laughing, which caught Hunter’s attention. He grabbed the milk and turned around.
“What are you two cackling at over there?” He arched a brow.
I smacked Taylor, but we were both still giggling like schoolgirls.
“Nothing. Nothing at all.” I tried to stop, but I couldn’t. “I think I’m just delirious from lack of caffeine.”
“Sure you are.” He knew I was completely full of shit, but he let it go and finished making my tea. “Your tea, madam. I hope you still take it the same way. I didn’t even think to ask.” That shyness was going to be the death of me.
“Yes, thank you.” I took a sip and moaned into my cup; damn that boy could make tea. That’s important, you know?
“Good?”
Is he serious?
“Hell yeah. You can make me tea any day.” I took a couple more sips before putting it down. “Thank you both for being here today. It means the world that you’ll be here. I also want to apologize now for anything I may say or do today. This is going to be hard.” I looked down at my hands, wringing them together and tried to hold back tears.
Hunter came around the counter and pulled up a stool, sitting as close to me as possible. “You don’t have to thank us. We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else than by your side. Anything you need, just ask, and we’ll do everything we can. And you do not have to apologize, no matter what you do. Today is not going to be easy for anyone, but for you, this is understandably a dreadful day.”
I sniffled, and he pulled me in close.
“I’m here for you, every step of the way.”
I took a few deep breaths. I refused to break down. I had too many hours left in the day to lose it now. I calmed myself before looking up at him. I reached out and caressed his cheek. “Thank you. I don’t know how I survived so long without you guys.”
Wrecked by Her (Like a Hurricane Duet Book 1) Page 13