Never Look Back (Coming Home Book 2)

by Stephens, Amy

  I follow the other graduates back around the auditorium until I’m seated again and wait for the remaining graduates to be presented with their diplomas. One by one, the names are being called but the only thing I’m concentrating on at the moment is Jennifer. I lean forward in my seat and look in the direction of where she is sitting with my parents. Although she doesn’t know I’m looking, I can’t help but notice how beautiful she looks this afternoon. I know she has had so much to deal with over the last few months but now that she is officially a free woman, I’m going to take my chances. Hopefully she’ll let me show her how a woman should be treated.

  I look down at my watch. It feels like everything is moving in slow motion, but I know I’m just eager to spend time with Jennifer and my parents. Mostly Jennifer, but I know I owe so much to my family for all of their support over the last several years. I was pretty fortunate to be able to attend a university with a pharmacy school that was so close to home.

  After the final graduate’s name is called, the commencement ceremonies come to a close and all of my fellow classmates disperse in different directions, everyone eager to reunite with friends and family. I sort through the crowd until I spot her standing just off to the side of my parents. I run up to them and exchange hugs with everyone. I keep my arm draped around her waist and she’s doesn’t appear to mind this at all.

  The moment is surreal.

  Slowly, we make our way through the crowd. I offer best wishes to a few fellow classmates and say goodbye to several instructors. I casually slip my hand in hers and we walk behind my parents as they lead the way out to the parking lot. Once outside, I let go of her hand, not wanting her to feel awkward in front of my parents. This display of affection doesn’t really mean much, but I want to take things slow and not make her feel uncomfortable in any way; after all, my parents still don’t know her news yet.

  My dad informs us he has dinner reservations for us at an upscale restaurant that’s just on the outskirts of town. The Blue Lake Steakhouse & Grill sits out on the waters of the Blue Lake at the base of the mountain and is known for its fabulous seafood and steak dinners. I commend my dad on his choice of restaurant knowing the food here is excellent. He, in turn, tells me I’m worth it. My dad said his dream in life was for me to take over the family business one day and this is one step closer to that dream coming true.

  My parents parked on the other side of the street so rather than try to follow one another to the restaurant, we agree to meet there as soon as we can. Traffic is pretty chaotic right now with everyone trying to leave at the same time.

  I unlock the truck and help Jennifer climb inside, this time she lets me assist her. I ease out into the line of vehicles exiting the parking lot and Jennifer doesn’t waste any time pulling out her phone to call her mom to check on Chloe. I can’t blame her since this is the first time she’s been away from the baby since she came home from the hospital. Her mom informs her that Chloe is doing fine; she woke up long enough to take her bottle and she’s gone back to sleep again. I’m relieved to know there’s no need to rush back home.

  “Are you going to be okay being away from her for a little while longer?” I ask, not wanting to keep her out if she feels like she needs to head home. I could always let her take my truck back and I could ride with my parents to the restaurant, but it would mean so much to me if she would accompany me. “I had no idea my dad was planning to eat out.”

  “Don’t get me wrong, I would love to be back home with Chloe, but I’m also enjoying just being out of the house. My mom was right. I needed a break. Besides, this is a special occasion and I’m honored to be a part of your family’s celebration for you.” She sounds genuine and I just hope she can enjoy herself without worrying about Chloe.

  The sun is beginning to set. As we near the lake, I can’t help but notice how pretty the water looks with the sun’s radiant orange rays beaming on it, and I turn off the highway and onto the gravel drive that leads down beside it. We pass several boat launch areas where a few boats are still coming in after being out on the water all day. It’s been a while since I’ve been down this way and I can’t believe how stunning this area looks. I’ve missed out on so much being so absorbed with school. It’s a perfect place to come for a picnic or just sit along the banks and watch the boats sail on the water.

  I see the restaurant up ahead and see my parents have already arrived. I glance around for a place to park and notice my parents walking towards the pier that leads out to the restaurant. When they see us pulling in, they stop to wait for us. I help Jennifer climb down from the truck and I grab ahold of her hand again as we walk towards my parents. As soon as we catch up with them, my mom leans over to give me another hug. It’s not like she didn’t hug me enough at graduation, but I know she’s proud. And also, this means she’s going to be able to stay home more instead of going into work at the pharmacy so much because I’ll be available to work now.

  The four of us walk together out on the pier and stop just outside the restaurant. My dad opens the door and we all enter and stand just in front of the hostess stand. A young lady greets us and my dad informs her of our reservations. After checking her book, she escorts us to a table in the rear that looks out over the water instead of back towards the shore. An oil lamp is flickering on the table and I allow Jennifer to take the seat closest to the window. When she’s comfortably seated, I pull my chair out and take a seat as well. She and my mom both comment how nice the view is and how beautiful the water looks tonight.

  I pass the menu over to her while the waitress comes to the table to pour our water glasses. The lighting in the room is dim but the glow from the lamp on the table gives off just enough light to read the menu easily. I also notice the glow from Jennifer’s cheeks.

  “See anything that looks good?” I ask her after she’s had a few minutes to browse the selection.

  “There’s so many choices that sound so delicious.”

  “I know. There’s a few dishes I’m considering, but I’m like you, it all sounds so good.”

  I glance over the menu a little longer, still uncertain what I’m going to order. The waitress returns to the table again with a bottle of wine that my dad ordered to celebrate the occasion and she offers my dad a taste to get his approval before pouring into the rest of the glasses. My dad nods his head and compliments on the wine’s sweet taste.

  While I’m not much of a wine drinker, I would have preferred a mixed drink or even a beer, but I know my parents enjoy having a glass of wine with their meal every now and then. And, this is my special moment to celebrate. Actually, it’s mine and Jennifer’s special moment, and I’m just as happy for her as I am for myself. I don’t think now is the time to tell my parents her news and feel it is probably more appropriate to share with them individually once we are back at home.

  Once our wine glasses have been poured, the waitress begins to take our orders, starting with my mom. Next, she asks Jennifer and I notice her hesitation, as though she is still can’t decide.

  “Babe, if you need more time, she can come back later.” I offer.

  “No, it’s fine.” She closes her menu and looks to the waitress. “I’ll have the baked salmon please.”

  “Mmm. That sounds pretty good.” I tell her.

  I give the menu one final glance before making my final selection.

  “I’ll have the friend flounder please.” I look towards Jennifer. “Maybe you can give me a taste of yours.”

  She smiles at this and reaches under the table to grab my hand. When the waitress walks away again, my dad doesn’t waste any time bringing up the trip he has planned for him and my mom. Originally, my parents cruise was scheduled for later in the year, but I’m now being informed that the plans have been changed and they will be leaving in two weeks. I’m shocked to know I’ll be left in charge of the pharmacy so soon, but I’m also happy for them. Being business owners, it’s been so hard for them to get away and have a real vacation. They deserve this trip.<
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  “Well, there’s also something else I’d like to mention.” My dad says taking turns looking from me then towards Jennifer, as though this has something to do with her as well. “Your mom and I have been talking, and, well, it’s no surprise, your mom would like to start spending more time at home now instead of at the pharmacy so much.”

  “Well, dad, why don’t you look into hiring another tech?” I suggest.

  “Todd, since you’re pretty much going to be in charge now, we thought you should have a say in the matter. And yes, hiring an additional tech will offset some of the workload.”

  “Okay.” I add. “But I’m not sure what you’re asking of me.”

  “Your mother feels we should consider hiring someone we know, someone we feel is deserving of the job. Since this is own pharmacy, we want someone to represent us well.”

  “Do you already have someone in mind?”

  “We think Jennifer would be an excellent candidate for the position.” This statement from my dad causes both Jennifer and me to look, first at each other, then over at my dad.

  “But, dad, what makes you think Jennifer is ready to go back to work yet?” I ask instead of letting Jennifer speak for herself and I instantly feel bad for interrupting.

  “Son, why don’t you give her a moment and let’s hear what she has to say. I know from what she has told me about her working while attending classes ever since she finished high school, shows me determination and dedication. I want someone with her qualities.”

  “Sir, I’m honored and shocked all at the same time.” Jennifer stumbles with her words. “I’ve definitely thought about going back to work, but now that I’ve got Chloe, I don’t know what I would do with her. My parents aren’t planning on staying much longer and I wouldn’t have anyone to watch her. I’m honored you would even consider me for this position.”

  My father raises his hand and nods towards Jennifer. “I understand. I’ve spoken with your parents about this already and they both feel it’s an excellent opportunity for you. They are both willing to stay here long enough to watch the baby for you to be trained by Beth. Once you’re comfortable with the job, Beth wants to keep the baby for you so that your parents can return to their traveling again. On your days off, Beth can work for you and keep all the paperwork caught up. You would start out with however many hours you feel up to working, then we could progress to full time hours. There are two other techs that you’d be working with as well. Also, if you end up liking this type work, I’ve got a friend who heads up the program for pharmacy techs down at the university. I realize it’s not in your field of study and won’t allow you to finish your degree, but it’s an accelerated program that doesn’t take long to complete. Besides, I think you and Todd would work well together.”

  “Dad.” I quickly interrupt. “Please don’t embarrass her. You’ve thrown a lot on her at one time.”

  Jennifer just sits there, speechless.

  The waitress delivers our food and I’m thankful for the interruption. I don’t like my dad putting her on the spot like that. It’s apparent she’s caught off guard and doesn’t know what to say.

  “Rick, I’m flattered that you would consider me for this position. I know from talking with you and Todd how important your business is to you and honestly, I can’t give you an answer right now. I definitely need some time to consider this.” Jennifer hesitates before continuing. “And Beth, it means the world to me knowing you would be willing to not only train me, but to keep Chloe as well. Can you give me some time to think about this? It’s so much to take in.”

  I can tell she is obviously overwhelmed and never saw this coming.

  “We just feel that since we know you, it would make it so much easier to have you take the position instead of hiring someone we don’t know anything about. Give it some consideration, and maybe you can let us know something before we get ready to leave for our trip.”

  I look over at Jennifer and she’s got a smile on her face. “I will. And thank you again for offering me this job, Rick.”

  We spend the next hour enjoying our food, which is very delicious. I offer Jennifer a bite of my fish and she shares a portion of hers as well. It feels so natural being here with my family and her, almost like this is the way it’s meant to be. Having the wine tonight with our meal helped me to relax and I’m sure it has done the same for Jennifer. I admit I’ve got a slight buzz since it’s been so long since I’ve had anything to drink. Everyone makes small talk for the remainder of the evening and I notice the crowd in the restaurant has thinned out. Dad settles our bill and Jennifer and my mom excuse themselves to go to the ladies room. My dad and I walk out onto the pier and wait for them here. I would really like to talk to my dad some more about the tech position for Jennifer, but I decide to let it rest for now.

  My mom and Jennifer finally meet us outside and I notice Jennifer laughing at something my mom must have said. I’m thankful they get along so well, but I’m curious to know what they’ve been talking about that’s so funny. Jennifer walks up next to me and we all walk back towards the parking lot together. When we get to the end of the pier, I stop and ask Jennifer if she would like to walk beside the lake before heading back home.

  “Sure, as long as we don’t stay too much longer. I’d really like to get back to Chloe before it gets too late.”

  My mom quickly interrupts. “Jennifer, I’ll stop by and give your mom a hand. I’m sure you don’t have anything to worry about, after all, what kind of trouble could that precious baby be causing.”

  We all laugh at this comment from my mother. I think my mom may have had a little too much wine tonight, but it’s so nice to see my parents so happy together. I must say, I envy them and hope I can have a marriage like theirs.

  “Thank you, Beth. And thank you both for including me tonight. You’ve both got to be so proud of Todd.” Jennifer says.

  I can’t help but grin as she says this. We say goodbye to my parents and I motion for Jennifer to follow me.

  “Come on. Let’s go.” I offer my hand to Jennifer and she takes it in hers without hesitation. I can’t help but notice how much more relaxed Jennifer seems to be now since hearing her news earlier. It’s as though the weight of the world has been lifted from her shoulders. I’d almost be willing to bet she’s going to start resting more too. Even after all those months of being away from him, she still worried herself to death.

  A paved path follows along the edge of the lake and we decide to take it instead of actually walking along the sandy shoreline. I don’t think Jennifer’s heals could handle the sand very well.

  “I’m not sure how long this path continues around the lake, but just let me know when you’re ready to turn around and head back.” I quickly add as we both begin walking.

  “It’s so pretty out here at night.” Jennifer says before we’ve gone very far. “And now that the sun has gone down, the reflection of the moon on the water is just breathtaking. Being in the city most of my life, I’ve not been able to see many views like this.”

  After careful consideration, I take my chances and decide to put my arm around her lower back, resting my hand on her hip. She appears okay with this gesture and we continue on with our stroll, neither of us certain of what to say. We pass another couple and I can’t help but notice how happy they seem to be holding hands and so in love. I wonder if that will be me one day. Could Jennifer possibly be the one I spend the rest of my life with?

  We stop for a moment for Jennifer to remove her heals. I knew they had to be getting pretty uncomfortable for her.

  “If we need to turn around we can.” I hate saying this because I really want to spend as much time with her out here tonight, but I don’t know how she likes being barefoot.

  “No, it’s okay. I’m just not used to wearing these shoes.” She quickly adds and it’s a relief not to hear her say she’s ready to go.

  “Let’s walk out here.” I suggest, and guide her out onto a pier that protrudes way out ont
o the water. There are a few lights close to the shore but further out on the pier I notice it’s much darker. I hope she’s okay with this.

  There have been quite a few people out walking tonight, but this particular pier is empty. We walk all the way to the end and lean on the railing that surrounds it. I point out the occasional fish jumping in the water and she is fascinated by this.

  “Have you ever been fishing before?” I inquire.

  “No, are you kidding me?” She laughs when she says this. “My dad may like to travel and be outdoors, but he knows nothing about fishing.”

  “We’ll just have to see about coming back one afternoon. It’s too hot to fish during the day right now but it shouldn’t be too bad once the sun starts to set.” I point out. “Maybe we can even catch enough to bring back to my mom to fix for supper.”

  “Wow, this is so peaceful.” She says as she steps away from me and lifts her head towards the sky.

  “And there doesn’t appear to be a cloud in the sky tonight.” I quickly throw in. “The stars sure are bright too.”

  “I guess those must be cabins or something.” She says as she points to other side of the lake where there are a few lights shining in the distance through the darkness.

  “I’m not sure if those are rentals or if people actually live there all the time. Wouldn’t it be nice to live out here away from all the traffic? You could wake up every morning and see the fog lingering over the lake and watch it disappear as the sun burns it all away.”

  “Mmmm, I could stay here forever.”

  I move over closer to her and I can’t help but feel a little nervous, uncertain what I should say or do next. I’m standing so close to her that I feel the warmth coming from her body. I notice how even and calm her breathing is. This feels like I’m back in high school again out on my first date, scared to make the next move.