I have to agree with her. Even back then, Havenwood was full of students who thought way too highly of themselves simply because of their family name. I never realized how much special treatment I received because of my name until I changed it, taking on Joseph’s when we married. But I’m happy I did.
Although, the last name I really want is Anthony.I close my eyes. I can’t let my mind go there. Not yet.
“Why are you taking on an extra class?” Connie asks, breaking me from my thoughts.
“The head of the department asked me to. The original instructor had a medical emergency, and Liz said I’m the only one who is free at the time the class is scheduled. It’s a basic 101 course.” I cringe even saying it.
Don’t get me wrong, I love psychology. But I love the science behind it; that’s why I teach the upper-level courses. To go back to the basic level just sounds boring.
Many students only take the course because it’s rumored to be easy. I have to hope I can share enough excitement on the subject to encourage those who want to continue in the field.
I remember when I took the class; my dad was still pressuring me to become a doctor. But then psychology became my favorite class, so I took another. Then another. It was my calling.
“Well, that’s a bummer,” Connie sympathizes.
I nod. “She said it would only be for a month.”
Connie stands, saying brightly, “Well, that’s nothing, then.”
A month. Nothing.It certainly doesn’t feel like nothing when I think of Cody traveling to Afghanistan.
“Before I forget,” she continues, “I’m going to a party on Halloween. Want to join me?”
I break into a fresh round of sobs.
“Lucy, what’s wrong?” Connie crouches down in front of me, pulling me into a hug.
“I was supposed to be with Cody on Halloween,” I wail. “This is going to sound stupid, but I was looking forward to our first holiday back together.”
“Oh, sweetie. You know it might be okay to spend time with him before he leaves.”
I shake my head. “That will just make it harder.”
She gives me a squeeze, then pulls back. “Then you should definitely come to the party with me. It’s better than sitting around here all night.”
Forcing myself to smile at strangers doesnotsound better than watching movies and eating ice cream. But I know Connie will keep pestering me, so I say the only thing I can right now.
“I’ll think about it. Okay?”
“Okay.”
CHAPTER22
Cody
I’m supposedto leave in a few days for a month, and Lucy won’t return my calls. I didn’t realize wanting space meant no communication at all. I had hoped she’d agree to see me on Halloween, but that came and went. Joseph is still missing, and no one knows who killed Randy. Basically, the whole thing is a clusterfuck.
I scrub my hand over my face, then grab the two coffees from the center console cup holders. I’m met with a brisk wind when I get out of my car. Fortunately, I only have a few steps before I’m inside Thunder’s rental.
Thunder is one of my best friends. I met him while serving and we just clicked. And I thank God for that every day. He’s like the brother I never had. And for him to use his personal time to help me means a lot. He knows I’d do anything for him, and he feels the same way about me.
That’s how he talked Hawthorne into letting him stay here and save my sorry ass. Well, really, he’s here making sure Lucy is safe. Technically, no one is getting paid for this since this is personal.
“Hey. I brought coffee.”
“Thanks,” he says, taking it from me.
“I really appreciate you helping me out here.”
