“Well, maybe a little.” She giggles. “But please don’t start crying again. I hate to see you so sad.”
I give her a hug and smile.
“I’m fine. Thanks for listening and talking.”
“Any time.”
“Are you seeing Josh tonight?” I ask, wanting to change the subject.
“Yes. You want to join us?”
“No, thanks.”
“You’re going out with that persuasive, odd guy?” She teases.
I roll my eyes at her and we both burst into a fit of giggles.
When we finally come up for air she asks, “How about we go out together Saturday night?”
“It’s a date.” I beam back at her.
I HAVE A HARD TIME focusing on my classes that day. They are uneventful and fortunately the day quickly passes. In American Literature, Professor O’Brien is pleased to see my topic that I chose for “The Great Gatsby” paper. Maybe I will get an “A,” even without Logan’s assistance and extra credit offering.
I can’t wait to get home and get work out of the way. Bryn, Josh and Tyler, with drinks in hand, are sitting in our living room when I arrive.
“Hi, Emilia.” They all shout above the music that plays from Bryn’s iPod docking station.
“Hi. Looks like cocktail hour has started.” I smile.
Bryn stands up and walks into the kitchen as I follow behind her.
“What’s Tyler doing here? You aren’t trying to set me up with him again?”
“No. I didn’t even know he was coming over. Josh just showed up with him.” She shrugs.
“Can you have a quick beer with us before you head to work?” She says as she hands me a Corona.
“Sure. Thanks.” I say as I take the cold bottle.
We head back into the living room. Bryn climbs on Josh’s lap on the overstuffed chair and Tyler sits at the end of the sofa. Bryn and Josh are in their own private conversation when I take a seat at the other end of the sofa.
Tyler shifts his position so that he’s turned towards me.
“What’s new, Emilia?” He says loudly over the music.
“Not too much. I have to head to work in a minute.” I smile.
“Why don’t I give you a lift? I could use some more wax.”
I remember Logan’s warning about Tyler wanting in my pants but I quickly put it in the back of my mind. Tyler is a friend and if he wants to give me a ride to work what’s the big deal? It’s not like we are going on a date or anything.
“That would be great. Thanks.”
“We’re headed to Elsie’s later. You want to come and meet up with us after you finish at Spyder?” He asks.
“I have plans.” I take a quick sip of beer.
“Oh. How about Saturday night?” I have to give him credit. He is tenacious.
“I have a date with Bryn.” I smile over at her.
This gets the two lovebirds attention because Josh chimes in, “Why don’t we all do something?”
“Is that okay, Emilia?” Bryn asks as she nuzzles Josh.
“Sounds good.” I refrain from rolling my eyes.
“I’m just going to take a quick shower and change before work.” I say.
I shower and blow-dry my hair until it falls smooth and silky down my back. I tug on my Billabong sweater that I purchased with my last paycheck from Spyder. It’s a loose sweater that falls off one shoulder and it’s in a warm saddle brown color. I had to have it and I’m even happier I bought it because it’s perfect to wear to an outdoor concert. After applying a little mascara and some lip gloss, I put on the Tiffany heart locket from Logan.
Before I head downstairs, I decide to call my dad. I think hearing his voice will help soothe my nerves. I’m not sure if I’m more nervous to drive with Tyler in his car or to go to the outdoor concert with Logan. My dad answers on the first ring. It’s like he was waiting for me to call.
“Hi, honey.” He says softly.
“Hey, dad. It’s good to hear your voice.”
“Yours too. How did the big meet go?”
“It went well. I came in first.”
“I knew you would. I’m so proud of you. I bet Coach was proud too.”
“Thanks. Yes he was very happy about how everything turned out. SBU had a really good day. How’s everything with you?” I ask. I will always worry about him taking care of himself but I’m certain that feeling is mutual.
“It’s good. I’m busy with a new project in Malibu. I’m painting a ceiling mural on a ridiculously ostentatious house on the beach.”
“I’d love to see it. Maybe I’ll come for a visit.” I think that might be a good idea if I need a quick break from everything.
“You know you are welcome any time.”
“Thanks, Dad. I’ll see you in a couple weeks for Parent’s Weekend. I can’t wait to see you.”
“I can’t wait to see you too. It’s Friday night, Bryn isn’t making you go out?” I can hear a quiet chuckle.
“I’m headed to work in a minute then I’m going out later.” I don’t want to tell him about meeting someone right now. I’ll tell him another time.
“Tell Sam and Rosemary hello for me. Thanks for calling.”
“I will.”
“I love you.” Those three words from my dad are just what I needed.
“I love you, too.”
“See you soon.”
“Bye, Dad.”
When I head downstairs, nothing has changed. Bryn is still sitting on Josh’s lap in the overstuffed chair and Tyler is sitting on the sofa.
“Emilia, looking good.” Bryn says. I can feel my face redden since Josh and Tyler are now both looking at me.
“Thanks, Bryn.” Ugh.
Tyler stands up and says, “You look great, but you always look great.” You need to be more up front…Logan’s words pop in my head.
“Thanks. You sure you don’t mind dropping me off? I can walk. It’s no big deal.”
“No. Let’s go.” He says as he opens the door for me.
“Bye. Have fun at the concert. Who are you seeing?” Bryn says.
“I don’t know. I forgot to ask and he didn’t say.” I shrug.
“Later.” Josh says.
“Bye.” I say as I shut the door.
We drive in Tyler’s black Ford pickup in awkward silence. Fortunately, it’s only a short distance from our house to Spyder. Tyler pulls into the parking lot behind the store and before we jump out of the truck he turns to me.
“You’re going to a concert tonight?”
“Yes.” I say and open the door. “Thanks for the ride.”
“Sure. Anytime.”
I head into the store when Tyler catches up with me.
“I need to get some wax.”
“Oh, yeah.” I say.
Mrs. Sutton’s face breaks out into a mega-watt smile when she sees me walk in with Tyler. She’s no doubt wondering if her recent self-defense tactics have been put to good use yet.
“Hi, Mrs. Sutton. You know Tyler, right?”
“Yes. Nice to see you both.” She says while she folds shirts and stacks them into neat piles.
“Hi, Mrs. Sutton.” Tyler says.
“Call me Rosemary.” I can’t help but roll my eyes.
“Where’s Mr. S?” I ask.
“He’s surfing. It’s been a slow day and the waves are good so he split about an hour ago.”
“Do you know where he went?” Tyler asks.
“Hammonds Reef.” Mrs. Sutton smiles.
Tyler turns. “I’ll see you later.” He says.
“What about your wax?” I ask.
“I’ll get some next time.” In a split second I can hear his truck engine start.
“Typical.” Mrs. Sutton says when it’s just the two of us in the store.
“What’s typical?”
“Married to the surf.” She shrugs.
I giggle. “What can I help you with?”
“Honey, it’s so dead here you should
just head out and enjoy your Friday.”
“No. I’m here. Put me to work.” I smile. “Besides Logan is picking me up from here at five thirty.”
“Oh my. I see you are in the same predicament. First Tyler is in here with you and then Logan is coming. Have you had to use those self-defense moves I taught you yet?”
“Do you really think either of them would be any where near me if I had?” I giggle.
“True. So you haven’t told Tyler you think of him as just a friend?” She asks.
“No. I’m still hoping he feels the same way.”
“No one likes confrontation, honey. You’re just going to have to tell him. Better you tell him now before it’s too late.”
“Too late?”
“Before he makes a move. If he thinks you’re interested, he eventually will try something and then you will have to use the Jugular Notch Back-Off.”
“Oh.”
“You don’t want to hurt him two ways, do you?” She giggles.
“Two ways?” I’m confused.
“Emotionally and physically.”
“No. I don’t want to do that. I think I was better off last year. Maybe I should have never started taking baby steps this year.”
“Why was last year better?”
“I stayed in the library and didn’t have to deal with any of this.”
She laughs. “Sweetie, that’s life. I’m glad you stepped out of the library and started living. Besides I certainly enjoy checking out your gorgeous options.”
The next couple hours go by quickly. Mrs. Sutton and I chat and keep busy organizing and cleaning the store. She really is like family to me. That reminds me.
“My dad wanted me to tell you hi.” I say as I’m dusting the sunglasses display case.
“Oh. How’s he doing?”
“He’s good. He’s planning on coming to Parent’s weekend.”
“That’ll be nice. I’m sure you’ll be happy to see him.” Mrs. Sutton says and then I see her staring behind me as her jaw drops open. I know without turning around that Logan is here.
“Rosemary, nice to see you.” I hear him say from behind me.
“Logan.” She beams at him.
When I turn Logan is right behind me. I can see why Mrs. Sutton’s mouth dropped when she saw him. He is gorgeous in faded jeans and a chunky cotton crewneck sweater in a caramel color. His bright blue eyes shine and his movie star smile completes the totally swoon-worthy package.
“You look lovely as always, Emilia.” He says as he leans down to give me a soft kiss on my lips.
“Hi.” I say, words failing me.
“You ready to go, baby.” He asks.
“Mrs. Sutton, you’re sure you’re okay?”
“I’m great. You two go and have fun.” She smiles.
When we get to the parking lot behind the store I don’t see Logan’s Porsche. I wonder for a brief minute how we will be getting to the concert.
“I hope you don’t mind.” Logan says waving his hand in the direction of a black Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
“Sure.” I say a bit warily.
“I used to ride it all the time but now I only use it when I know parking and traffic will be a bitch.” He hands me a black helmet.
“That makes sense.” I smile. I start to put on the helmet.
“Here let me help you.” Logan hooks the strap underneath my chin and then caresses my cheek. He leans forward and softly kisses my lips.
“We’re going to miss the concert if we don’t get going. You don’t want to miss Snow Patrol do you?”
“Really? That’s who were seeing?” I grin.
“You said they were one of your favorite groups and I saw they were playing at the Bowl so I got tickets.” He says as he puts his helmet on and fastens the strap.
I nod, wide-eyed. “Thank you.” I smile.
“You’re welcome. You ready?”
“Sure. I’ve never been on a motorcycle before is there anything I need to do?”
“Just hold on tight, baby. Enjoy the ride.” He smiles. I think I’m going to like this.
Logan climbs on the bike and he puts his hand out to me for balance so I can throw my leg over the seat behind him. When I’m on the bike I hug him closely from behind. Why was I worried about this?
He starts the engine, lets off the clutch and we are on our way. We pick up speed and it is an exhilarating feeling. The most surprising thing about riding on a motorcycle is that you don’t lean when you make a turn; instead you stay upright. I nuzzle into Logan’s back and even though the air is rather chilly, I keep warm by his body heat.
He smells so intoxicatingly good as I press my nose into his muscular back. I marvel at how well he maneuvers the motorcycle through the downtown traffic.
When we reach a stoplight Logan turns his head back to me. “You okay?”
“Great.” I smile and hug him tighter.
“We’re almost there.” He says before the light turns to green and we are off again.
Santa Barbara Bowl is located on a hill in a residential area that overlooks Santa Barbara and the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean. Since we came by motorcycle we get to park directly in front of the venue. This is definitely an advantage since I see hundreds of people, mostly college students, climbing up the steep hill.
When we park Logan grabs a blanket off the back of the motorcycle before we make our way into the venue. I can see the stage in the distance and the whole overall setting is lovely. There are large oak trees all around, adding to the lush greenery.
“You enjoy the ride?” Placing my hand in his, I climb off the bike.
“I did.” I smile.
“Are you hungry?” He holds my hand as we walk towards the concession area.
“Not really.”
I haven’t eaten since lunch but I don’t have much of an appetite. I think I’m too excited about riding on a motorcycle, the Bowl, and listening to Snow Patrol under the stars with Logan.
“How about a glass of wine or beer?” He says as we make our way to the front of the line.
“Sounds good.”
“Which sounds good?” He asks with a slight smile.
“Whatever you’re having.”
“You’re very accommodating tonight.” He says as he orders two Chardonnays.
“So are you.”
“I should take you to outdoor concerts more often. They seem to have a calming effect on you and the music hasn’t even started yet.” He teases as he hands me the glass of wine.
“Really? Why? Do you think I’m that difficult?”
He laughs. “Let’s just say you have a bit of a smart mouth. I thought for sure you would make some clever quip about my motorcycle.”
“You thought I would point out how your Harley is a hedonistic pleasure?” I just figured that goes without saying.”
“Yes. I didn’t think that would stop you. Come, let’s go find our seats.” He takes my hand as he leads me towards our seats.
I follow him through the crowd to our front row, center seats. We are seated and I look around at the incredible venue. It’s just starting to get dark and in the distance I’m actually able to see the sun sink into the horizon.
I turn to Logan. “You couldn’t get better seats?” I tease.
“Only the best, for you.” He pauses for a moment and then adds. “Would you like another glass of wine?”
“Thank you.”
“Here keep this on you.” He says as he drapes the blanket on me. “It can get very chilly, I’ll be right back.”
Sipping the rest of my wine and taking in the atmosphere, I sit back in my seat and pull the soft, wooly blanket up higher on my legs as the weather starts to get cooler. I look up and see the local residents on their backyard decks on the houses that sit above the amphitheatre on the hill.
I don’t know why I glance behind me. Maybe because out of the corner of my eye I feel like someone is staring at me. I turn to look and see a beautiful dark-haired girl ab
out three rows back, watching me closely. I don’t recognize her but smile at her thinking that she might be in one of my classes. Her face remains cool and her mouth remains in a hard, thin line. Before I give it much thought, Logan returns with two more glasses of wine and then the concert starts.
Snow Patrol sounds amazing. It really is a beautiful and intimate concert because the venue isn’t too big. The stars twinkle above us and I can feel the cool ocean breeze.
We sit in silence enjoying the music and drinking our wine. The blanket is draped over both of us and Logan reaches to hold my hand underneath it.
“You warm enough?” He leans over, asking between sets.
“Perfect. This is really amazing. Thank you.” I lean over and nuzzle into his chest.
He puts his arm around me to pull me closer to him and then softly kisses the top of my head. “I’m glad you are enjoying it.”
The next song starts and Logan leans over and whispers in my ear, “This my favorite song.”
I’m running out of ways to make you see
I want you to stay here beside me
I won’t be okay and I won’t pretend I am
So just tell me today and take my hand
Please take my hand
Please take my hand
Just say yes, just say there’s nothing holding you back
It’s not a test, nor a trick of the mind
Only love
It’s so simple and you know it is
You know it is, yeah
We can’t be to and fro like this
All our lives
You’re the only one to me
The path is clear
What do I have to say to you
For Gods sake, dear
For Gods sake, dear
For Gods sake dear
Just say yes, just say there’s nothing holding you back
It’s not a test, nor a trick of the mind
Only love
Just say yes, cuz I’m aching and I know you are too
For the touch of your warm skin
As I breathe you in
I can feel your heart beat through my shirt
This was all I wanted, all I want
Its all I want
Its all I want
Its all I want
Just say yes , just say there’s nothing holding you back
Running from Romeo Page 18