“Happy New Year to you. Come with me.”
Keep it together, Jamie. He was playing the part just like you wanted. Back down your emotions and take in a deep breath. You helped your friend and that’s all.
I look back at Stacey, standing with her mouth open, arms crossed over her chest, clearly pissed. Mission accomplished. Michael, two, Stacey, zero. Or is it Jamie one Stacey, zero.
We enter the kitchen slipping out of sight. “I hope I didn’t overstep, but I wanted her to think you were not available to her.”
“You went out on a limb for me and I’m pretty sure others saw us. Are you okay with possible rumors?”
“If it helps rid you of Miss Fancy Pants, let them talk.”
“Then we can address the rumors together. Thanks Jamie.”
“You are welcome. I guess I need to get back to the dishes”
I walk out applying lip gloss, then tuck in my loose hair. I glance Stacey’s way and clearly she’s trying to make sense of what happened. I proceed to do my job but see her leave about ten minutes later. Well played! But what just happened to me?
*
Michael
What just happened? I’m standing here thinking about kissing her and how my world has forever changed. How do I not tell her now? A fist hits my arm and I turn to see Pete. “Why did you hit me?”
“What just happened with you two?”
“Jamie was trying to send a message to Stacey.”
“That was a bold move on her part. Did you say anything?”
“I can’t. Not yet.”
“She has changed over the past few months. Waiting might mean someone else will be the one kissing her.” He lays a hand on my shoulder. “You’re like a son to me and I want the best for you and I’m sure that’s Jamie.”
Chapter 13
Second semester starts with a feeling of belonging. This is my home, my school, and I have a group of new friends, one of them Jenny from my history class. She’s a go-getter from California, looking to be involved in a club or cause. We decided to attend the meeting of Hopson Campus Society of Women together. The first event is a dressy luncheon to welcome us and receive our assignments that will prove our dedication to the group. Beautiful furnishings, past member pictures, event posters, and awards hung on the walls. The smell of fresh flowers fills the air inside the charming old house. Stacey stands at the front of the room, waving us over. Jenny and I walk towards her as Michael’s warnings to be cautious of her motives drum in my ear.
“Jamie, I’m glad you came.” Her eyes fall to Jenny. “And you are?”
“Jenny Peterson.”
“Nice to meet you. Please, you ladies find a seat because we are about to get started.”
I know my eyes were big. Maybe I was frowning, but who was that pleasant individual? Certainly not the pushy person I’ve encountered recently.
She rings a bell, asking everyone to have a seat. “Welcome to the Hopson Campus Society of Women.” After the introduction of officers, detail of accomplishments, and their future goals, it was then explained why we should choose them. Stacey is a good speaker who makes you believe in the purpose of HCSW and their commitment to the community.
*
We ate and as dessert was being delivered they started to pass out new member assignments. When they came to our table, we discovered our act of kindness is helping the Monroe Family, an elderly couple in need of physical assistance on their farm, plus grocery shopping. We sat listening to the details of our assignment.
“Do you accept?”
We looked at one another, all saying, “Yes.”
Stacey hands me the folder, telling the three of us there was no time to change clothes and that she needed the final report with their signatures and pictures tonight by 10:00 pm. She leans into the table. “The first assignment is the most important because it proves too us how far you will go and how well you work together.”
I offered to drive so we left on our assignment wearing dresses and heels but ready to lend a hand to a couple who needs our help. My GPS took us far out of town to a remote farm at the end of a long tree lined driveway. We began with Jenny grocery shopping, Melissa helping inside the house and I took to the chores in the barn.
*
Meeting the Monroe’s made our duties pleasurable. Both were sharing stories of their life and pitching in when they could. With the list finished and Mr. Monroe’s signature on the report, we set off back to town. I dropped off Jenny then Melissa and headed to my apartment. My shoes were covered in muck and I wanted to peel my dress off at the door but checked, calling out to Michael to see if I was alone. It doesn’t appear he’s in, so I peel out of everything, and hit the shower. As I enjoy my peony shower gel, I think back on what we did tonight and feel accomplished. I slip out of the shower, pulling on some boy shorts and a t-shirt to go gather my clothes for the washing machine. Opening the bedroom door, I find I’m not alone anymore, so I grab a robe.
“Hey, guys.”
“Jamie, come and grab a beer with us.”
“Thanks, but I have reading to finish.”
Michael cleared his throat. “Did something happen? It looks like you got out of your clothes in a hurry.” His eyebrow went up as Stan and Jeff just smiled.
“Just dirty.”
Jeff steps towards me. “This is sounding better and better. What do you mean exactly?”
“I attended a HCSW meeting, receiving my first assignment tonight.”
They look at Michael. He just raises his hands in a motion of surrender. “I tried to stop her.”
“It was informative and the task was cleaning house, shopping, corralling animals, moving hay bales—things like that in dresses and heels.”
Jeff now leaned against the counter. “That sounds hot. Sweaty girls, hay…”
Michael speaks. “I think she was testing you.”
“Well if that is true, we all passed.”
Jeff held up his beer. “Here’s to Jamie for sticking it to Stacey!”
Stan hands me a beer. “You need this.”
“Thanks. Hey, what kind of an area is Paxton Heights? Our assignment was there.”
Michael tosses his can in the trash. “An area you ladies should not be in at night. That’s where she sent you?”
“Yes.”
“I knew this would happen. Jamie, you have to be careful.”
“I will, but the family was so sweet.” I turn and grab my clothes, putting them in the washing machine. Then I head to my room, saying good night as I pass them. I guess I do need to be more cautious when it comes to her. But the volunteering is perfect for me, so I will give it some time.
Chapter 14
May arrives and my first academic year comes to a close, which I look back on with a smile. I’ve accomplished many things like securing a job, being on the Dean’s List, running almost daily, and actively volunteering in my community. My need for extra money led me to ask Pete for more shifts. Michael is about to leave for a few months, working in the family business as part of an agreement he made when he procured the bar. He has been an intricate part of my growth and happiness here, being a supportive roommate and friend. I find myself wondering sometimes if he would find me to be of girlfriend material, then reality hits and I wake up.
I sit and wait on the balcony while he packs his bag so we can leave for the airport, when the door slides open and with a cup of coffee in hand he asks, “I saw your summer course load—which by the way, seems intense—then Pete said you asked for extra shifts.”
I look up at him. “Yes, it’s intense, but it will accelerate my graduation date. As for the shifts, I need the money for expenses on the truck.”
“So what you’re saying to me, is all work, no play this summer.”
I stand, slipping my feet into my flip-flops, reaching for my coffee cup. “I’ll try and enjoy the summer if you promise to do the same. I’ve heard you speak on the phone about your schedule, which also seems intense, not to menti
on the family obligations.”
“How did my concern about you turn into your concern for me?”
“I guess our thoughts are on the same path. That’s what friends do.”
“There is one more thing. Stacey.”
I giggle. “Have you ever trusted her?”
“She always did things in an odd way, but I guess I did until she slept with Cliff.”
“She’s just jealous I live here with you and she doesn’t. I’ll keep my eye on her, so stop worrying about what she might do to me. We need to leave so you don’t miss your flight.”
At the airport, I pull up to let him out, dreading his departure. We get out and I wait on the sidewalk as he gathers his bag. He steps close to me, wrapping his arms around me in a giant hug.
“Don’t get weirded out, but I’m going to miss your chocolate chip pancakes on Sunday mornings.”
I lean in, tightening my arms. “I’ll miss your spaghetti on Thursdays.” I pull away. “Have a safe trip roomy.”
“You have the numbers I left you. Go outside occasionally!”
All I can do is smile, while shaking my head because he knows me too well!
*
Time is flying by and my classes are intense, requiring lots of reading, papers to type, and time spent in the lab. I go to bed thinking of assignments, then wake up to the same. The best part though is that I’m halfway done. I run a few times a week to clear my head and grab food whenever. The weather is perfect but I only enjoy it while sitting on the balcony studying. My communication with Michael dropped due to business trips, onsite issues, and meetings. One of his managers was in a car accident, so he stepped into his job. I assume he hasn’t enjoyed the summer much either. I find myself thinking about him in ways I never had. As they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Today I woke up with a foggy brain. My heart is beating faster, like my body is rushing but leaving me behind. The day progresses and the feeling doesn’t change. After 2:00, I decide on dry toast to combat the nausea and pop a pain reliever for the headache I now have, then head to class. Hopefully the walk will help calm me down. Two hours later I find myself at the 42 for my shift to find a girl on stage belting out a song. I see myself in the mirror behind the bar. Where is my summer glow? My eyes are still red. Yesterday marked one year Dad has been gone and it was a tough day for me, but that can’t be why I feel off today. I move over to the bar to ask Ted for a drink thinking something cold might help my stomach.
*
“Jamie, what can I get you?”
“A ginger ale?”
“Sure. Are you okay?”
I yawn again. “Just tired.” He hands me a cup. “Thanks for the drink.”
“No problem. There’s pizza in the back for us—it might perk you up.”
I nod in agreement while walking away. After clocking in, I tie on my apron and grab my bucket, heading to my first table. I have to set it down quickly, leaning on the table to steady myself. I’m dizzy and my chest feels heavy, like I can’t catch my breath. What is wrong with me? I look up to see Ted pointing in my direction talking, but I can’t make it out. My body just crumbles to the floor and everything goes black. When I open my eyes, Pete is holding my hand.
“You’re going to be okay. EMT’s are on the way.”
*
The next voice I hear is familiar to me, but how could it be?
“Please, my friend, wake up. I need you to talk to me, let me know you are alright.”
I force my eyes open. “Susan?”
She puts her hands over her mouth. “Oh my God, you had me so worried.” She hugs me.
“What happened?”
“You fainted at work. Michael called me from your phone.”
“My phone? How did he know where I was?”
“He’s your emergency contact, so the hospital called him first. He was here in no time and has been sitting in that chair waiting for you to wake up. I sent him home for a shower after I arrived.”
“How long has it been?”
“You’ve been out a few days. They say you’re dehydrated and you have mono.” She hands me a glass of water. “Here, sip this. All you need is rest, fluids, and food. I’m here to help you get back on your feet.”
The door opens and a doctor enters along with Michael. He sees I am awake and lets out a sigh, running his hand through his hair. He does look tired but is smiling as he approaches the bed.
“When did you wake up?”
“Just now.”
“This is Dr. Fortis. He has been overseeing your care. I was just telling him that Susan and I will be with you to help implement your care at home.”
“Hello, Ms. Morgan. You had everyone worried. How do you feel?”
“Tired.”
“That’s normal. We will be getting you some of our tasty hospital food and maybe a shower just to see how you do. You might be able to go home today if you can handle that and some walking. Now if you two could wait outside, I need to speak with her in private.” Susan and Michael left the room.
“Now do you know what happened to you?”
“Before I fainted, I felt dizzy and my chest felt heavy like I couldn’t breathe.”
“You were very lucky to faint at work. They got you here quickly as your body was shutting down. Dehydration can cause a wealth of problems for your organs. Stack mononucleosis on top of that, and it leaves your body weak and in danger. I will be releasing you with some medications and instructions to be followed to the letter. With the help of your friends and being at home you should recover in no time. A nurse will be in shortly to get you up. Do you have any questions?”
“No sir.”
“I’ll check back with you after lunch to see how you are.”
Susan came back in without Michael.
“Did he leave?”
“No, he’s getting your bag from his car. You haven’t told him how you feel, have you?”
“We’re friends.”
“Why won’t you let yourself feel something good?”
Just at that moment, a perky tall blonde nurse came in, kicking Susan out for an overall assessment.
After my shower, a tray of liquids awaits me, and I start sipping, pacing myself not to overdo. Michael returns with a bag in hand.
“I brought you some items from home. You look better already.”
“The shower was nice. I’m sorry they called you. You’ve been so busy, I hope it didn’t cause a problem.”
“Don’t be sorry.” He lays his hand on mine and starts to say something as Dr. Fortis comes back in.
The doctor looks at my tray. “If you can handle this tray, in a couple hours we’ll try food with substance. I can release you this afternoon if your blood test comes back in the normal range. Any lightheadedness, nausea, or pain?”
“No sir.”
“Good. Seems someone wants to go home today.”
“Yes sir, I do.”
Michael reaches out his hand. “Thank you, Dr. Fortis.”
“No problem. I will see you later.”
Chapter 15
Arriving back at the apartment, I’m helped out of the car by Michael, while Susan retrieves my bag from the back seat. Once inside I’m prompted by both friends to sit on the sofa, which I do without argument. I kick off my flip-flops, then settle onto the sofa. I have to admit I’m getting a little tired and maybe a little hungry. Susan comes around the end of the sofa and bends down close to me. She looks over at him, then back at me.
“I’ll put my things in your room and I will freshen up if you want some time with you know who.”
With a wink and a smile she’s gone. Michael is in the kitchen opening and shutting cabinets, more than I’ve ever heard before.
“Michael, what are you doing?”
He pops his head through the window separating the two rooms. “I’m taking care of you.”
“What does that mean?”
“You’ll see. Just give me a second and I’ll be right
out.”
I prop my legs up on the coffee table in hopes that he’ll sit beside me. He comes out of the kitchen, holding a tray and frowning.
“What were you eating? I haven’t seen the pantry this bare since you moved in. Until I can get to the store to restock, I made you a snack. Here is iced water and a protein bar.”
He wants to do the right thing, give me fluids and give me food, but I was about to cry seeing the bare tray and his worry. Here in front of me, is an amazing guy who I am truly lucky to have in my life, but I clearly can’t do the one thing he asks of me. I reach up and touch his arm.
“Please sit with me?” Tears are spilling out onto my cheeks as I try to wipe them away. I start sputtering words that I’m sorry, I wish I had done a better job, I felt I let him down. He reaches over, pulling me towards him, locking me in his arms.
“Stop apologizing. You pushed yourself too hard but I know you would do anything to make everything you had going on work. Leaving to come here when you were admitted to the hospital was not even a second thought for me. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
I pull away from him. “You’ve done so much for me since I came to Hopson. You’ve always been here for me. I don’t blame you if you’re mad at me.”
He takes my hand in his. “The doctor told me over the phone that your organs would start shutting down, if you didn’t get the proper treatment. I left the conference, called my father, and asked for the company jet. When I told him what was going on, he agreed I needed to leave. Did you feel yourself getting sick?”
“I felt it the day I passed out.”
He looked down at me. “And the extra hours at work?”
“Don’t blame Pete, I needed the money.”
My Heart Page 6