by Tara Wentz
“Dry enough.”
Grabbing a tube of lip balm, she ran it over her lips before pocketing it. She flipped the light out and headed back to the kitchen.
“C’mere Chigger, wanna go outside?” Kellen asked, sliding the glass door open.
The pup’s nails clicked on the tiled surface as he went outside.
Kellen picked up the mail and randomly went through it.
“Junk…junk…water bill…junk.” She tossed the junk in the trash and the bills on the table. A non-descript white envelope sat in the middle of her mail with no return address. The closer she inspected it she realized it had no post mark on it either. She turned it over, slipped a finger under the flap, and opened it. Pulling the piece of paper out, she unfolded it and began to read.
“What the fuck…” Kellen turned the letter over in her hands and glanced at the back before turning it back around. The letter was simple and to the point in typed letters.
You best watch your back before
Someone sticks a knife in it.
You’ve been warned!
“Who the hell would send something like this?” Kellen asked nobody in particular. She placed the letter back in the envelope and tossed it on the table. Her teeth worked her lower lip as she wondered about the letter. There was only one person she could think of that would have any reason whatsoever to send her a fucked up letter with demands.
Before she could contemplate anything further, the doorbell rang. She hollered at Chigger and locked the sliding glass door. She snagged her jacket off the back of the couch and rushed to the front door.
Joshlyn stepped back to let Kellen out the door. Kellen grinned and kissed her before taking an arm and leading her to the car.
Kellen fastened her seatbelt and turned towards Joshlyn, waiting for her to get settled.
“So, are you excited?”
“More like nervous, to be honest. What if I really like her and this project is as perfect as it sounds?”
“Well, I guess you’ll have some decisions to make then.” Kellen hesitated. “Josh, what is it that stops you from wanting this so much? I mean, obviously I know something has happened in your past that has put you on the defensive, but so much so that you’d turn away an opportunity of a lifetime?”
“Don’t you think I know that,” Joshlyn snapped. She started the car and headed towards the restaurant. There was no way Kellen could understand how she felt or what she’d gone through and quite honestly she wasn’t sure she was ready to share this part of her life yet. That said, there was no reason for her to bite Kellen’s head off for not understanding and asking an innocent question. Was there any way she could make amends for the nasty response?
Kellen remained silent for the rest of the ride to the restaurant. The last thing she wanted to do was upset Joshlyn before going into this meeting, so she’d leave the ball in her court and see how she responded. This wasn’t over by a long shot. Kellen learned long ago to shut her mouth after making the mistake of questioning her father over his involvement with some shady dealings. More often than not, she had been the recipient of his harsh tongue. His drinking left him uninhibited and he said exactly what was on his mind. The verbal stuff she eventually learned to tune out, but the physical violence scared her into submission. Her father was a mean son of a bitch and it only took one lesson for her to learn that as long as she was under his roof she would not cross him. The beating she received landed her in the hospital for almost a week. Nobody knew her father had beat her. She told everyone that she was walking home from school and was jumped. At sixteen, they took Kellen at her word. Kellen didn’t know if she’d ever share this bit of information with another soul again. The one time she had, it was used against her.
She glanced out the window and watched the trees and flowers go by. Lots of people were out walking in the early evening. I hate this silence! Why didn’t I just keep my mouth shut?
Joshlyn pulled into a parking spot and before Kellen could get out of the car, she grabbed her hand.
“Kellen, I’m really sorry for being such a bitch. You didn’t deserve that.”
Kellen squeezed her hand. “It’s okay. We can talk about it later, but for now let’s go meet Ms. Masters and see if she’s worth all the hype, what do you say?”
Joshlyn smiled at her reprieve, temporary as it may be. “All right, that sounds good.”
The restaurant was busy, but Ami was standing right up front waiting for them. They made their way through the bustling crowd and stopped beside her.
Ami gave Joshlyn a hug. “She’ll be along shortly. We’re going to go ahead and get a drink while waiting. She said she had a business call she had to take, but wouldn’t be too long.”
Joshlyn nodded. “Okay.”
Ami leaned around Joshlyn and shook Kellen’s hand. “It’s good to see you again, Kellen. How’ve you been?”
“Hey, Ami, been good, thank you. How about yourself?”
The hostess arrived and picked up some menus. “If you ladies will follow me, I’ll show you to your seats.”
“Same ole, same ole, you know how it goes.”
Kellen honestly didn’t know considering every day was different for her, but agreed anyhow.
“Here you ladies go. Your waitress tonight will be Lisa. Can I get you something to drink while you’re waiting?”
After ordering their drinks, Ami leaned forward and regarded Joshlyn. “So, any idea which way you are thinking about going on this?”
“I really don’t know, Ami. I mean, the offer is amazing, there’s no doubting that, but I need to hear all the details before I decide.”
“It’s an opportunity that only comes along once in a blue moon, so be sure that whatever you decide is really what you want, Joshlyn.”
Joshlyn fiddled with the napkin on her lap. She got it already that this was a big deal. How could she tell Ami to back off and let her make her own decision without her constantly reminding her of what she’d potentially be throwing away if she decided not to do it?
Kellen cleared her throat. “Ami, I think Joshlyn is more than prepared to listen to the details and then make a good sound decision based on what she’s heard.”
Ami glanced from Joshlyn to Kellen and then back to Joshlyn. “Well, yes, of course. I didn’t mean to infer that you weren’t capable. I just…well, I’m only looking out for you. You know how much I value the work you do for my company. I just want what’s best, that’s all.”
Joshlyn reached over and clasped Ami’s hand. “I know you do and I appreciate it. So, tell me about Robin Masters. What should I expect?”
“I think you are going to be pleasantly surprised with her. I expected some super bitch based on the recognition she is receiving, but she’s really very sweet and down to earth.”
Joshlyn was about to ask another question when the waitress arrived with their drinks.
“Are you ladies ready to order yet?”
“We are waiting for one more in our party, but then we’ll be ready,” Ami answered.
The waitress glanced around the table and briefly stopped when her eyes landed on Kellen. She tipped her head slightly and then continued on. “Very well. My name’s Lisa. I’ll keep an eye out for the other member of your party. If you should need anything until then, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Thank you, Lisa,” Joshlyn replied with a touch of sarcasm.
The waitress placed her pen and tablet in her smock and walked away. Ami lasted all of five seconds before she burst out laughing. Joshlyn glanced first at Ami and then at Kellen, who was smiling shyly.
“What?” Joshlyn huffed.
Ami wiped a tear from her eye. “Nothing, honey.”
Kellen leaned towards Joshlyn and whispered, “You couldn’t have claimed ownership any better than if you’d stood up and pissed on me.”
“What the hell are you talking about, Kel?”
“Joshlyn, your eyes couldn’t be any greener if you tried.” Ami giggled.
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Joshlyn sat motionless, her eyes wide with shock. Suddenly she felt the urge to bolt from the room, Robin Masters and her wonderful offer be damned. Her heart felt like it was going to beat right out of her chest.
“Um, excuse me for a moment, will you,” Joshlyn asked, but didn’t wait for a response. She hopped up from her chair and made her way to the ladies room.
Pushing the door open, Joshlyn almost knocked a petite redhead over in the process.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Joshlyn stammered and sidestepped the woman.
“My mistake,” the redhead responded. “I’m always late and never watching where I’m going. Pardon me, lass.”
Joshlyn smiled politely and proceeded to an open stall. Closing the door, she sagged against the wall and willed her legs to support her a little longer. Dammit! Joshlyn took several deep breaths and slowly calmed. She realized now that Ami’s comment was completely harmless, but still she couldn’t keep herself from reacting. There was no way she could explain that her response had nothing to do with the teasing gesture, but the comment itself that hit too close to home. What must Ami and Kellen be thinking? They are probably thinking you’ve lost your fucking mind! Joshlyn knew she couldn’t hide out in the restroom the remainder of the night. How rude would that be? Releasing the catch on the door, Joshlyn walked over to the bank of mirrors and sinks. She dampened a paper towel and patted at her throat and forehead then leaned closer and blinked several times.
Joshlyn took one last breath and headed back to the table.
****
Ami stared at Kellen after Joshlyn’s quick departure. “What the hell just happened?”
“I have absolutely no idea, Ami. Maybe she’s just worked up about this possible new project. I know she doesn’t want to make the wrong decision.”
“Should I go talk to her or let her come back on her own?”
Kellen thought about it for a minute before responding. “Honestly, I’d let her come back on her own. As quick as she left I think she wanted some time alone to collect herself.”
“I hope she doesn’t take too long because that’s Robin Masters coming this way right now,” Ami pointed out.
Kellen watched the compact woman approach. For such a tiny thing, she sure moved fast. Her bobbed red hair was pushed back behind both ears and her smile was very engaging. Kellen immediately liked her.
As the woman approached the table, she held out her hand to Ami. “I’m so sorry I’m late, please forgive me. Any other time I’d have told the bloke to stuff a sock in it, but alas he is my source of income this month.”
And charming as well, Kellen surmised.
Ami laughed and stood to greet the newcomer. “Hello, Ms. Masters, it’s good to see you this evening.”
“Oh please, it’s Robin. No sense in formalities here.” She grinned.
“Very well; Robin this is—,”
“Joshlyn, I presume,” Robin interrupted, leaning over to shake her hand.
“Uh, no. I’m Kellen, a friend of Joshlyn’s,” Kellen responded shaking the hand in front of her.
“Ah, forgive me, Kellen. It is so nice to meet you.”
Kellen smiled. “Likewise. I’ve heard wonderful things about your work.”
Ami placed a hand on Robin’s shoulder and gestured to her right. “This is the photographer you want to meet. Robin, I’d like to introduce you to Joshlyn Davis. Joshlyn, this is Robin Masters.”
Joshlyn stopped short of the table, feeling slightly embarrassed. As she walked up, she knew Robin would recognize her from their near collision.
Robin held out a hand. “We meet again, Ms. Joshlyn Davis.”
Joshlyn clasped Robin’s hand and smiled. “It’s very nice to meet you, Ms. Masters.”
“Ah, it’s Robin, please. Shall we sit down and eat and hammer out some of the details? I’m famished!”
They all agreed, sat down, and opened their menus.
Joshlyn felt immediately at ease around Robin. Her personality was not what she had expected. The word ‘diva’ came to mind, but Robin acted as if she was no different from the person at the next table; it was very refreshing. Joshlyn glanced up from her menu and found Kellen peeking over her menu at her. She cracked a small grin when Kellen winked at her and went back to studying her menu. Gradually she felt her shoulders relax and when the waitress came back around, they all ordered.
“So,” Robin started, slicing through a piece of chicken with her knife. She speared the piece of food and pointed at Joshlyn with the fork. “It’s you I want, Joshlyn. I don’t mind groveling if I have to. I’ve seen your work and it’s what I want.” She popped the bite in her mouth and chewed.
“I’m very flattered, Robin, but I really need to know what you’re wanting before I can agree to anything.”
Robin took a sip of water and set her glass down. “It’s really very simple. I’m looking for unification through diversity. I want to show diverse situations in every facet and at the end we’ll show how they all connect to make us all the same.”
“Simple, huh?” Joshlyn gulped. “And do you have a timeline for completion of this project?”
“Ah, see this is where it gets easy. The sooner the better, yes, but I don’t want to rush you, Joshlyn. I know that sometimes it takes the right moment to get the perfect shot so I’m not rushing you on this. When you feel you have the pictures for what we need, then it’ll be done. Until then, you’re the boss.”
Joshlyn stared, completely dumbfounded.
“That’s it? You’re leaving it all up to me?”
Robin chuckled. “Not all of it, but it’s not my words that will make the difference with this, Joshlyn, it’s your pictures. You know what they say, don’t you? A picture is worth a thousand words.”
Joshlyn cleared her throat and set her fork down. “When do you need to know my decision?”
“I know this was sudden so I don’t want to push, but do you think you could make a decision within the next week? The sooner I can let my people know the quicker they can get moving on things.” Robin pulled a cardholder out of her front pocket and removed a business card. “All the numbers you can reach me at plus my email address are on that card. If you want, you can go to the website listed and see some of the other stuff I’ve done.”
Joshlyn slipped the card in her pocket. “I’ve seen quite a bit of your work, actually. I was surprised when Ami told me you were interested in my work.”
“Well, you shouldn’t be, lass. Those are some mighty fine prints you’ve taken, if I do say so myself.”
Kellen took pity on the profusely blushing Joshlyn and piped into the conversation. “Where do you get your ideas, Robin?”
Mischievous brown eyes twinkled at Kellen. “The question isn’t where my ideas come from, it’s where don’t they come from.”
Kellen laughed. “I see your point.”
“Ladies, let me clear some of these plates out of your way. Did you save room for dessert this evening?” the waitress asked.
“I’m good, but I could use a cup of coffee,” Ami responded.
“Anyone else?”
Kellen, Joshlyn, and Robin agreed on coffee as well.
“So, Kellen, I’ve been sitting here wondering where it is that I’ve seen you before and it finally clicked,” Robin said, snapping her fingers.
Kellen’s brows furrowed. “Yeah? Where’s that?”
“You’re one of those racecar drivers they featured the other night. Don’t remember which channel it was, but it was a national broadcast program and they were talking about some new and upcoming drivers on the amateur circuit.”
Joshlyn’s spine stiffened. She reached for the creamer and dropped a couple dollops into her cup.
“Really?” Kellen sat up a little straighter.
“Yep. They showed some highlights from that race you did last weekend. That was pretty amazing! They also showed some of your local interview. I caught a quick glimpse of Joshlyn before they zoomed in on you.”
Kellen was so intent on what Robin had to say that she missed Joshlyn’s reaction to the last statement. Her face completely drained of color and she felt like her dinner was about to reappear. She took deep breaths, trying to calm the storm running loose in her stomach.
“That’s incredible. I had no idea it extended beyond local media. Did you know that Ami’s brother was a driver as well?” Kellen asked.
“No. It looks like a bloody good time though. So, between us, how awesome is it to go that fast?” Robin rubbed her hands together.
Kellen and Ami both laughed. “Nothing compares!” Kellen assured.
They visited a little longer until Robin finally said she needed to run because she had an early meeting in the morning.
Robin rested a hand on Joshlyn’s shoulder. “Joshlyn, it was really great to meet you. I look forward to hearing from you.” She patted her shoulder and then extended a hand towards Kellen.
Kellen shook her hand. “It was nice to meet you.”
“You ladies keep in touch.” Robin turned towards Joshlyn one last time. “I know we can make this work. Give me a call, okay?”
Joshlyn gave a slight smile and nodded. “Okay.”
“Girls, I will see you later. Dinner was wonderful. We should do this more often,” Ami remarked. She leaned in to give Joshlyn a hug goodbye and waved to Kellen.
Kellen placed a hand at the small of Joshlyn’s back and led her out to the car. Joshlyn had grown increasingly quiet at the end of their visit with Robin. She chalked it up to nerves and the upcoming decisions she knew Joshlyn had to make. The longer they rode in the car, though, the more Kellen worried.
Kellen reached across the console and laced her fingers with Joshlyn’s. “You okay?”
“I’m fine,” Joshlyn replied without taking her eyes off the road.
“Tired?”
“A little.”
Conversation was not easily forthcoming and Kellen wasn’t sure she wanted to force it if Joshlyn wasn’t in the mood. Maybe she’d be better off just saying goodnight and heading home to Chigger.
Joshlyn pulled the car into her drive, turned it off, and sat there for a moment. She leaned her head against the steering wheel and took a deep breath.