I’m certain of it.
Downstairs, Lana waits for me. She’s in a purple dress that goes perfectly with the subtle lavender highlights in her midnight hair.
When I couldn’t decide on what to wear, Lana lent me a dress that stopped at mid-thigh and flowed when I moved. It’s not anything fancy. If I know Mr. Campbell and I slightly do, his party will be casual.
“Yes! There’s my sexy friend.”
I smile, but it fades quickly. I’m trying. Truly, I am.
“Nope. No way. You turn that frown back around. Got it?”
“You’re so bossy.” I snag my keys, but Lana shakes her head.
“I’m driving tonight. Now let's go before the good seats are all gone.”
Twenty-Eight
When we get to the corner pub, a line of balloons is taped around the door and a banner reading: Enjoy your retirement, Freddy!
Not that I ever went into the hardware store. But I will miss the lunch breaks Mr. Campbell took at the café. And the poor jokes he’d share with me. Regardless, he always made me laugh.
Damn. The thought of leaving these people behind makes my chest ache.
Inside, seventies rock music plays through the speakers and Mr. Campbell himself enthusiastically greets us. “Ladies!” He takes our hands, dancing with me and Lana in place with a gut laughter bellowing out of me. “Glad you can make it, girls.” He throws his arms in the air.
I exchange a knowing smile with Lana because we’re both aware Mr. Campbell is, in fact, drunk. Drunk and happy. But all we can do is grin.
“I’m retired! Can’t believe it, really. But don’t think I won’t be in to visit you, my dear. Those brownies are to die for.” He lands a kiss on my cheek. “Now have fun. Drinks are on me!”
Everyone cheers and a few people dance in circles around a lively Mr. Campbell. It’s like something out of a sitcom.
“Hear that? He’s buying. Let’s go grab a drink.”
I follow Lana to the bar and scan the busy crowd. Jason would never step foot inside a place like this, so I’m not sure why I believe he’d be here waiting for me. My mind pulls in every direction, though.
“You doing okay?” Lana asks with a reassuring smile.
“Just a little distracted.”
“If you want to leave, just say the word and we’re gone. I’m limiting myself to one drink.”
“Thanks. But I’m fine.”
As we wait for our drinks, a man saunters over and sits next to me. I startle at first, then relax when I see it’s not Jason. A wide grin spreads across the stranger’s face while Lana hands me my drink, shooting a curious look over to him. She’s looking out for me, but I wave her off, letting her know it’s fine. This isn’t exactly what I had in mind for tonight, but oh well, it’ll only be conversation. Lana chats with Joel as he leans against the countertop, and I take a dainty sip of my drink.
“Can I get you another?” His smile is charming, and he’s good looking. So, there’s that.
“I just got this one, so we’ll see.” I casually shrug, hoping he’ll get bored and leave.
He nods. “Fair enough.” He drinks his beer, holding a smile, never taking his eyes off me. “Do you come here often? Don’t remember seeing you, and I could never forget a woman like you.”
His line is lame, but I can respect it. “I’m kind of new in town. Not sure how long I’ll be staying.” I lean forward, resting my chin in my hand, and Lana whips her head to me with an eye roll. Yes, I know, I’m not leaving. According to her.
“My name is Martin, and your name?” His brown eyes peer into me as he moves his body toward mine. But if I am being truthful with myself, all I see is blue. Ocean blue. And I don’t give a damn what this guy’s name is.
“Sorry if I’m coming on too strong. I’m a bit out of practice.” He flashes his left hand. “Newly divorced.”
Ouch.I turn, giving him my undivided attention. “I’m really sorry. That must be hard.” But really, I’m envious.
