by Alicia Rae
Caroline smiled up at her son. Her smile was much more genuine, but she still looked displeased that she had to come all this way for the talk. “Thank you. It’s so good to see you, Luke. I miss you.” She turned her smile my way. “Hello, dear.” Her gaze traveled up and down my attire. “You look beautiful as always,” she said as she hugged me.
Luke pulled out my chair for me and then sat beside me. The young waitress came and quickly took our orders. I ordered a chicken salad because keeping up with Kyle’s appetite had been very fulfilling this morning.
Jim wasted no time before diving into the purpose of the visit. “So, I see you’ll be graduating with a bachelor’s degree soon. I’m hoping you will be done with all this nonsense and move home. The company needs you.”
His father’s voice was so stern, and he spoke with such finality that I wondered if he had talked that way to Luke as child. I would have hidden in my room if that were the case.
Luke’s body immediately tensed, and I tried to give him a comforting smile as his mom and I sat quietly at the table. Her eyes were glued to Luke’s, watching closely for his reaction.
“Actually, Dad, I’m applying to medical schools, and I’m searching for another scholarship to cover the cost. I have at least four more years to go and then an internship, so I don’t think I can help you.”
The waitress picked the most perfect time to arrive with our food. I could see his father’s nostrils flaring, and his mother’s smile was torn between being happy and sad.
“That’s wonderful, dear. I’m so proud of you, but we need you home now,” Luke’s mother replied cautiously.
“That is preposterous!” Jim cut his wife a hard glare. She immediately quieted and removed herself from the conversation. “Why on earth would you do that? It is completely unnecessary and a waste of time. We need you back home. It’s time to grow up and take responsibility. I heard you’re working at a concessions stand right now.” Jim shook his head in disapproval. “That is an embarrassment to our family name.”
Tilting his head toward mine, Luke whispered, “Eat quickly! This will be over fast.” He cut his steak and began to eat, completely ignoring his father.
I felt hard stares on us as I tried to keep my head down and take a few more bites of my salad. At least the chicken was grilled perfectly.
“Luke James Thompson, what do you have to say for yourself?” Jim’s hard voice sliced the air.
My head whipped up at his tone, and I glared at Jim. Luke’s quiet demeanor was almost more frightening, and I glanced over at him, waiting for his response.
Luke turned to me with an apologetic face. “I’m sorry, Lil, but we definitely won’t be making dessert.” Then, he faced his father with cold black eyes. “And you…I already made myself clear long ago. I have no desire to take over the family business. And I never will. I’m sorry that I’m not the perfect legacy son and all, but I’m applying to medical school. I’m not wasting my life away, for Christ’s sake! Maybe you could say, ‘Hey, son, that’s great news!’ or ‘We’re very proud of you!’ But what in the hell was I thinking? You will never say that, and it’d be in my best interests to remember that.” Luke slowly folded his napkin, stood, and walked to his mother’s side. He bent down and kissed her cheek. “Good-bye, mother.”
Luke turned to me and I swiftly rose out of my chair. After helping me into my coat, he pulled me after him. With that, we walked off without a backward glance to his father.
I let Luke have a few quiet moments in the car. I could tell by the way he was blowing smoke out of his ears that he needed space.
After some time, he finally said, “Awesome support, huh? I think he would plan every aspect of my life if I let him.”
“I see that, but I just don’t understand why. I mean, you are in college. You’re getting a degree and applying to medical school no less.” I frowned. “Why can’t he just be happy for you?” I added, almost to myself.
“I don’t think my father knows the definition of the word happy. I should send him that page from the dictionary with the word and meaning highlighted,” Luke said sardonically.
I felt so bad for him. I had no experience in this area. My family and I had always supported and encouraged each other to reach for the stars, and we’d always been open with our feelings. We had been so happy and close. Sometimes, it just didn’t seem real that they were gone. I closed my eyes, silently wishing that they were here. My dad would have been a great person in Luke’s life. He would have told Luke not to let anything hold him back.
Luke did not realize that I was off in my thoughts. “I’m so done with it.” He let out an exasperated deep breath. “So, want to hang out a bit before we turn in?” His voice was hopeful as we made the drive home.
“Sorry, Luke. I don’t think I’m up for it tonight. I’m actually exhausted, and I have another long week of writing ahead of me. Rain check?” I really was tired. A good night’s sleep was in order before my brain would function enough to write.
“Okay. Maybe we can hang out sometime this week. You never know when I’ll need help with writing my college papers,” he teased.
“Very true. Heaven forbid you ever just pay attention in English class. You know, you could learn a few things.” I gave him my stern face.
“Now, why on earth would I do that when I have you?” He grinned boyishly.
“Uh-huh. I’m glad that’s working out well for you.” I couldn’t help but laugh.
We pulled up to the parking lot, which was pretty empty for a Sunday night. Even though I’d promised myself that I wouldn’t look for it, I noticed Kyle’s rental car parked in his spot. I wondered what he was doing in his free time. I thought about what hobbies he might have or which TV shows he enjoyed watching. I found myself still wanting to know more about him.
Stepping out of the car, I shook off my drifting thoughts. Luke walked alongside me as we rounded the corner to my cottage.
“Good night, Lil. Thanks for being my wing…woman.” He gave me a quick hug and let me go.
“Night, Luke.” I gave a soft smile before I walked inside.
My cotton PJs, fluffy socks, and soft bed were calling my name.
Mornings just came too quick. I decided on a quick remedy—caffeine. Caffeine…what would happen if the world got rid of it? I. Would. Die. As I drank my coffee, I looked around my living space. And how did the cottage get so messy with only one person living here? I quickly picked up, started the wash, and took out the garbage.
I then powered up my laptop and began working on some plot outlines for the week. I always had a good idea of where my book was going before I wrote it, but as the story progressed, my mind would sometimes wander a bit, and I’d end up making changes. This week, a few things were going to change, so I quickly jotted down my notes in my made-up shorthand.
My fingers pounded the keys as the thoughts poured through my mind. So many emotions went into my words. I almost felt relieved as I hit each 1,000-word count. It was like the pressure had been lifted from my brain. The thoughts were out, so I could breathe lighter.
In the afternoon, my doorbell pulled me from my work. I was more than ready for a break, so the timing was perfect.
I smiled radiantly at the deliveryman as it dawned on me why he was here again.
“For you, ma’am.” He smiled and handed me a vase.
I signed quickly, eager to read Kyle’s message. “Thank you!” After closing the door, I headed for the kitchen and tore open the little note.
My heartbeat kicked up a notch at his sweet words. My sexy alpha with his badass, overbearing, hot side also had a way of showing me a sweet, romantic side. He was surely never dull.
I texted him.
Thank you again for the lovely wildflowers today. I missed snuggling with you, too.
His reply came quickly.
You’re welcome. How is your day going? I hope you’re daydreaming of me.
Oh, how I would rather daydream of him.
&nbs
p; Just the average workday—minus flowers distracting my thoughts to a certain someone.
The flowers were a vibrant purple and smelled wonderful. I walked into my room and put them on my dresser as my phone chimed again.
What do you think of having dinner with that someone tomorrow? For real date number three?
I smiled at the thought of him returning tomorrow.
What do you have in mind?
Just then, my phone rang. “Hello?”
“Hi, Lily! How are you?” Brooke said, her voice a bit muffled and louder than usual. It sounded like she was in her car.
“I’m doing great, Brooke! How are you?” I said, making my way to the kitchen for a quick snack before I got back to work.
“I’m good. I’m actually in your area, and my client canceled. I thought maybe we could get together for some girl time,” she suggested happily.
“What do you have in mind?”
“Dang! Lily, hold on a sec.”
I heard Brooke shuffling around. Just then, my phone beeped with a text. I anxiously glanced at my screen.
It’s a surprise. See you tomorrow. About six?
I quickly texted Kyle back.
It’s a date. See you then.
I was unable to hold back the smile beaming from my face. I really liked surprises from Kyle. Tomorrow could not come fast enough.
I returned the phone to my ear in time to hear Brooke let out an exasperated sigh.
“I’m back! So, we need to go on that shopping spree we talked about. New-mom syndrome has left me with no clothes that fit. Are you up for it?” she asked with anticipation and excitement.
“Shopping? Of course! My laptop is forgotten. Just say when.” I headed back into my room to change before I left.
“Thank God. I’m in serious need of a good latte and clothes that fit. I’ll be there in twenty.”
We hung up, and I settled on a white cotton summer dress with my favorite flip-flops. I touched up my foundation and mascara just as the doorbell rang.
Opening the door, I said, “That was a quick twenty minutes.” I laughed.
“Desperate times call for desperate measures. I need to shop.”
Brooke grabbed my arm as I hastily reached for my purse and keys. I barely had time to lock my front door before she practically dragged me to her car.
I was astounded to see this new side of her. Shopping deprivation did not suit her well. Her withdrawals must be serious.
“Okay, okay! We will hurry.” I quickly put on my seat belt. “Where are you taking me first?”
“The mall. We’re going to find a highly caffeinated latte as quickly as possible. We’ll shop for clothes until the car is full, and then we’re getting manis and pedis.” She pulled on to the main road in a hurry.
“Are you sure you need caffeine?” I gave her my best raised eyebrow.
“Oh, yes. I love my baby girl more than the world, but right now, I need to feel like a woman again—at least, the best as I can. Some parts are damaged permanently.”
The look on my face must have shown how horrified I was because she quickly carried on.
“Oh, it’s still well-worth it for my snugglebug. I love her to pieces. I just need a few girl hours, and I’ll be as good as new.”
After we made it to the mall, we hit the clearance racks and picked out all the good deals we could find. I had to give the woman credit. She looked great in everything, and every item was on sale. I found a cute new dress, a pair of white linen shorts, a light pink tank top, and flip-flops I could not resist. Brooke continued her assault in another clothing store. I had never been there before and for a good reason, too. This one trip set me back five hundred bucks.
Then, she wanted to go into Victoria’s Secret. Oh damn…my biggest weakness. I found a few cute PJs, bra and pantie sets, and a really cute garter set that was on sale. See…well-justified.
“I love this bra. I hope it comes in pink.” Brooke began digging through the drawers for her size and color.
I felt the bra, and it was silky soft but padded more than my liking.
“How are you comfortable with all this padding?” I asked, looking puzzled.
“It’s baby nursing 101. Beloved children suck you dry and leave you with saggy pancakes. That bra works miracles and lifts up my leftovers.”
My eyes widened at her revelation. It sounded scary, but the image of a little cuddly baby in my arms took over my thoughts.
Whoa…back up. Working on me right now, not babies…but maybe someday.
“Don’t worry. You are young. You have plenty of time to decide if you want a family later. So, tell me more about Kyle. How are the dates going?”
“Our first date, we went snorkeling, and the water and company were both perfect. Then, on our second date, he took me four-wheeling. I haven’t been in years, and I had a great time with him. It was fun and relaxing. I haven’t known him long, but he’s a really sweet man.”
“And what about Luke?” She stood up after finding the bra in her size, and she moved on to find matching panties.
“What about him? He’s my friend,” I said as I started to smell different perfumes in the store.
She stopped and looked up at me with an incredulous expression. “Lily, you know he’s in love with you, right? Every time we’re all together, he can’t take his eyes off you. I can see it plain as day on his face.”
“He just told me yesterday.” I sighed deeply. “I had no idea. He’s my best friend, and I have very few friends at that. I don’t want to lose him, but I’m not in love with him.” I glared at her as a thought settled in. “How could you not tell me if you knew? I could have used the heads-up.”
“I thought deep down you knew.” Brooke shook her head in complete shock. “Wow…he waited all this time to tell you? Why?”
“He was giving me space. He wanted to wait until I was ready. I’m just scared I’ll lose his friendship over this. I care for Luke, and I don’t want to hurt him.” The fact that I was hurting Luke pained me.
“I know, sweetie. No matter what, he’s going to get hurt if he’s in love with you, and you don’t return those feelings. It’s inevitable,” Brooke said softly.
“Do you think he’ll forgive me? Do you think we can still be friends? I’m scared all of that is going to change.”
“There is nothing to forgive per say, but I think it will take him time to heal. He will have to learn to separate those feelings from your friendship if he can. If he can’t, then he might have to walk away. Friendships with men change after relationships and marriage anyway. You can’t have a male best friend casually showing up at your door forever.”
I hadn’t really thought that far ahead yet, but it did make sense. “I just…” I sighed again. “I just want to skip this part and not hurt anyone’s feelings.”
“We all wish that, sweetie. Now, back to the fun stuff. Let’s find a lace outfit for Kyle to tear off.”
I blushed, and Brooke grinned.
“Uh-huh. That look answered my unspoken question.” Then, she turned serious. “I’m so happy for you, Lily.”
I was happy, too, but sometimes, it felt as though it was too soon or too good to be true. These feelings were new to me, and I was not sure how to process them. Right now, I just wanted to take it one day at a time.
We checked out at Victoria’s Secret and decided it was time for our manis and pedis. It had turned out to be just the day that I needed. Brooke and I had such a natural, fun friendship. I felt blessed to have her and Luke in my life. If not, I would have been all alone.
Tuesday started out great. I typed 4,000 words by lunch, which was awesome. I had just finished my bagel and decided I should check the mail for an expected document. On the way, I bumped into a tall young man with dark hair.
“Excuse me, miss,” he said, gripping my arms to catch my fall. His hands were rough as he offered me a polite smile.
“Oh, sorry. I was looking the other way, and I didn’t see you.�
�� I stepped back, breaking his hold.
“No, miss, it was my fault. I’m sorry. I was looking at my notepad. Are you hurt?” he asked as he glanced up and down my body for injuries.
“No, I’m okay. Well, thanks for saving me from a fall.” I turned, grabbed my mail, and went back inside.
“You’re welcome,” he said and continued along the sidewalk.
I flipped through the mail, quickly looking for my research document about a particular disease that I wanted to add in my book. I had to make sure I had reliable resources first, but it still had not come. At the bottom of the stack, another bright envelope caught my attention. It was personally addressed to me with my name written in all capital letters.
Curious, I opened it.
My eyes widened at the letter. Fear jumped into my throat, constricting it. It was a quote from my book. I quickly tossed the threat into the garbage, not wanting to touch it anymore. My stomach felt nauseous, and I started to heave.
Trying to distract myself, I called Brooke.
She picked up on the second ring. “Hey, Lily! What’s up?”
“Brooke, I just got a disturbing letter. It was a quote from my first book,” I said, trying to stay calm. Calm wasn’t going so well.
“Oh!” She paused. “What did it say?”
I read the note to her in a shaky voice.
Although it was probably only seconds, it felt like an eternity had passed before Brooke answered.
“Crap!” Brooke said, astonished. “That is…intense. Do you think it was from someone you know personally or from an obsessed fan?”
“I don’t know,” I answered honestly. “The quote makes me think it’s from a fan while the second part seems…personal, and it’s addressed to “Lily,” not my penname.
“That’s true. First, we need to call the police and file a report. Real or fake harassments are taken very seriously. It happens more often with authors than one would think. Is this the first time he has contacted you?”