“It’s not like that. It’s just…”
“Forget it. I don’t know what I was thinking.” Jeffrey shoved his key into the truck lock. Ian stepped forward and laid a hand on his shoulder.
“Where should I meet you?”
Jeffrey studied Ian’s face. “The first show is at the Loaded Hog at eight.”
“Alright, I’ll meet you there.” Ian stepped back, allowing Jeffrey to open his door.
The men slipped in their cars and headed off.
“Sorry, I’m late.” Ian slid into the chair across from Jeffrey and waved down a waitress.
“They just started. See the brunette, the taller one? Her name’s Michelle.”
“She’s cute. Do you know her?”
“Kind of, we’ve met a couple of times. She’s taking me to see the next band at the Social.”
“Is it supposed to be a date? I don’t want to intrude.” Ian shifted in his seat and smiled at the waitress as she set a club soda in front of him.
“It’s no big deal.” Jeffrey shrugged and sipped on a glass of rum and Coke. “She is pretty cool though.”
“It’s good you are dating again.” Ian spoke casually but he noticed Jeffrey’s body stiffen.
“What do you know about my life? We haven’t seen each other in years.”
“It’s not hard to keep track of what’s going on in your life. I saw the tailspin you went into after Camylle’s death and the stories I’ve heard sound like you haven’t come out of it yet.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Have you ever Googled yourself? You’re the subject of every local gossip column; stories of how you are estranged from your family, pairing you with a different woman every couple of weeks, and wasn’t there a DUI arrest last year?”
“You shouldn’t believe everything you read,” Jeffrey bit out, his anger boiling like a forgotten pot of spaghetti. “I’ve been having fun, is there anything wrong with that?”
“I don’t want to believe those things. I want you to be happy again.” Ian looked at the stage. “She’s good.”
Jeffrey turned his attention back to Michelle. Her fingers flew over the strings in a complicated pattern making it look easy. Ian let the conversation lull, giving his friend time to think about things. The men watched the band, impressed with their talent. Halfway through the set Ian leaned across the table toward Jeffrey.
“So, what about the other girl? What do you know about her?” Ian asked.
“Not much. Michelle doesn’t like her.”
Jeffrey made sure Michelle saw him clapping after every number and rarely took his eyes off the stage.
As the set wrapped, Jeffrey moved to the bar to close out his tab and ordered Michelle a bottle of water. He watched her pack up her equipment. She motioned toward the back door and he gave her a nod. She disappeared to her car and Jeffrey returned to the table where he found Ian talking with Tina.
“You guys are good,” Ian was saying as Jeffrey approached.
“Thanks.” Tina popped a piece of gum in her mouth and snapped it loudly. Jeffrey stood behind her and rolled his eyes at Ian. “You guys going to stay to watch Black Ink?”
“No, we’re heading out. I told Michelle I would come see you guys play.” Jeffrey jumped in, hoping Ian didn’t want to invite her along.
Tina turned to him. “Yeah, you’re the guy she was talking to last week aren’t you?”
Jeffrey felt her eyes rake over him. “That’s me.” He noticed Michelle slip in the back door and freeze. She gave him a small shake of her head and pointed toward the street. Jeffrey smiled and returned his gaze to Tina. “It was good to see you again, but we really have to run.”
“Where you headed? Maybe Michelle and I can join you.”
“You know that would be nice, but Ian and I haven’t seen each other in a long time. We have a lot of catching up to do. Maybe next time.”
“Whatever, your loss.” Tina replied. She dragged a finger down Ian’s chest before turning away.
Outside, Michelle waited near the curb, her back to the club. Jeffrey approached her with Ian in tow.
“Everything okay?” Jeffrey asked.
“Yeah, we just had a big fight before you showed up.” She turned her gaze to Ian. Jeffrey made the introductions and the troika made their way down Orange Avenue to The Social.
“How did you hear about this band?” Ian asked Michelle as they entered the club.
“A friend of a friend has a friend in it.”
Jeffrey laughed. “So you really know nothing about them?”
“Well, I know Andy, the guitar player, has been playing since he was seven and is said to be an absolute genius.”
The crowd in the packed club went crazy at the first notes, which consisted of a gentle picking on a fire engine red Gibson. The drums kicked in and the show took off. Two hours of pounding adrenaline and pulsating rhythms later, Jeffrey, Ian, and Michelle tumbled out of the club, carried by a wave of spectators hoping to catch a glimpse of the band outside.
Jeffrey looked into Michelle’s excited eyes and noticed a small scar, pale against her flushed face. “I haven’t had that much fun in a long time.” He pulled Michelle’s face into his hands and planted a kiss on her lips. He caught her by surprise, but she gave in, her lips parting allowing his tongue to explore.
Ian cleared his throat behind them. “I don’t mean to break up the party guys, but…”
Michelle pulled away, an embarrassed look on her face. She took a step back, but Jeffrey caught her around the waist and pulled her to his side. “I told you she has friends,” Jeffrey turned to Michelle. “Do you think he would like Amanda?”
“Only if he likes super aggressive, controlling, loose women.”
Ian’s eyes widened causing Michelle and Jeffrey to double over laughing. “No, that actually isn’t my type.” Ian replied when the laughing had died down enough for him to be heard.
“I thought that was every guy’s type.” Michelle’s surprise sent Jeffrey into another gale of laughter.
“Okay, a lot of guys do like that, well maybe not the controlling part, but everything else. Me, I’m a little more traditional.” Ian smiled. “Jeff here, on the other hand, has been known to like…”
“Whoa! No need to talk for me,” Jeffrey cut him off.
The crowd around them erupted in screams of delight as the members of Wonderland emerged from the club, mingling with the fans.
Michelle moved forward to shake hands with the band. When she reached Andy, the guitarist, she stopped. “I heard you were a genius, but I think even that was an understatement.”
“Thanks so much. You must have been talking to Dakota, that girl is the best publicity we have ever had. It’s a team effort, though.” Andy waved toward the other band members. “Without them I would just be a guy playing guitar on the street corner.”
“I doubt that.” Michelle replied, twirling a lock of hair around her finger. Jeffrey watched, feeling his pulse increase, an inexplicable desire to pull her away rising within him. “If I played half as well as you I would quit my job and pursue a music career.”
“You play?” Andy’s interest was apparent. “Solo or in a band?”
“I’m in a band; no way do I have the guts for solo.”
“I’d love to come see you sometime.”
“No, I couldn’t ask you to do that. We’re just a bunch of amateurs playing for fun, no where near your caliber.” Michelle blushed with embarrassment, but leaned closer making the conversation more intimate.
“Don’t let her fool you,” Jeffrey jumped in unable to remain silent any longer. “She’s fantastic! Ian and I were watching her band before we came out here.” Jeffrey laid his hand on Michelle’s shoulder possessively.
“Then it’s settled. When’s your next show?” Andy asked.
Michelle hesitated. “Saturday at eight.”
“I’ll be there.” Andy dropped a dazzling smile on her. “We musici
ans need to support each other.”
“Andy,” one of his bandmates called from across the street. “Are you coming?”
“We’re going to Denny’s to grab a bite, would you all like to join us?” Andy addressed the trio but his focus remained on Michelle. Jeffrey tightened his grip on her shoulder causing her to wince.
“Thanks, but we already have plans,” Jeffrey said.
“Alright, see you next week then.” Andy crossed the street to join his friends and disappeared into the crowd.
Michelle shook Jeffrey’s hand off her shoulder and turned on him. “What was that about?”
Jeffrey held up his hands in defense. “What? What did I do?” he stammered.
“We don’t have any plans that I’m aware of, we could have gone to hang out with them.”
“If you want to go, then go. I’m not stopping you.”
“You had a death grip on me,” Michelle growled, rubbing her shoulder. “It better not bruise.”
“What is your problem? I thought you wanted to hang out with me tonight, but if you would prefer to go with him then go! Ian and I can have fun without you.” Jeffrey took several steps back, his voice rising as he spoke.
“Fine!” Michelle jogged across the street in the direction the band had gone.
Jeffrey kicked the ground and shoved his hands into his pockets.
“I need a drink, you coming?” Jeffrey stormed off. Ian hesitated before following. Jeffrey ducked into Bar BQ Bar and slid into an empty booth. Ian took the bench across from him without a word. A waitress appeared and Jeffrey ordered a rum and coke.
“You getting anything?” he barked at Ian.
“I’ll have a Diet Coke please.” Ian folded his hands on the table.
Jeffrey felt Ian’s stare without meeting his eyes. He panned the crowd, the feeble light making it hard to recognize faces. “Why are you staring at me like that?”
“Like what?”
“Like that, like you have something to say.”
“Do you mind if I ask why you’re so mad?” Ian’s quiet tone irritated Jeffrey even more.
“Wouldn’t you be upset if you were out with a girl and she started flirting with another guy?”
“I didn’t realize she meant so much to you.”
Jeffrey didn’t answer. The waitress returned and he took a long draw on his drink, emptying the glass. He slammed it on the table and waved for the waitress to bring him another.
“Seems like you’re jealous,” Ian continued.
“No I’m not.”
“Then what does it matter if Michelle went off with those guys?”
Jeffrey stewed, jabbing his swizzle stick at the ice in his empty glass. A fresh drink arrived. He picked it up and took a sip.
“Maybe I’m a little jealous,” Jeffrey conceded, his anger cooling.
“Why?” Ian asked.
Jeffrey shrugged. “What does it matter? Let’s find some girls.” He stood and strode to a group of women standing near the jukebox.
“Ladies, you look lovely this evening.” Jeffrey crooned as he approached them. “What are we celebrating tonight?”
The women giggled. “I guess we are celebrating the weekend,” offered a cheery redhead. Her hair fell just below her shoulders and framed her heart-shaped face.
“I’ll drink to that. Would you ladies like to join me and my friend?” Jeffrey motioned toward the booth where Ian still sat.
“He doesn’t look very excited to be here,” the redhead said.
“He’s just shy.” Jeffrey took the redhead’s hand and pulled her toward the table. He let her slip in first all the way to the wall. Two other women followed, one squeezing onto the bench with Jeffrey the other took a seat next to Ian.
“So, I’m Jeffrey, this is Ian.”
“I’m Sophia,” the redhead offered. “These are my friends, Lexie and Cathy.” She pointed at each woman in turn.
Jeffrey admired each as they were introduced hoping Ian wouldn’t ruin the evening for him. A waitress passed by and he waved her down to order another round of drinks. Ian begged off, still nursing his Diet Coke. Cathy cuddled up to Ian draping her arm around his shoulders. He scooted away from her with an awkward smile.
Over the next hour, Jeffrey and his new friends drank, their laughter growing ever louder. Jeffrey noticed Ian glance at his watch several times. Each time he tried to interest his wingman in a drink, Ian declined.
“I don’t want to break up your party,” Ian interrupted a little after one o’clock, “but I need to get going.”
“No!” they all chorused.
Cathy leaned her head on his shoulder and nuzzled his neck. “Don’t you want to stay a little longer? We’ve barely had a chance to get to know each other.”
Ian lifted her head and looked her in the eye. “I’m sure you’re a very nice girl, but it is time for me to go.” He turned to look at Jeffrey. “Would you like me to drive you home or will you get a cab?”
“I’m fine,” Jeffrey’s words were slurred. “You should stay, though. What’s so important at home?”
“I have an early morning. Why don’t you give me your keys?”
“Forget it. I can get myself home.”
Ian pushed his way out of the booth. Jeffrey watched as Ian pulled Lexie up and reached for him.
“Leave me alone.” Jeffrey pushed at Ian, but slipped and his elbow hit the table with a loud crack. Ian took advantage of his friend’s momentary distraction and grabbed Jeffrey’s shirt, pulling him from the banquet. Cathy tugged on Ian’s free arm. He shook her off and steadied Jeffrey.
“I said, leave me alone,” Jeffrey roared. He pulled back his arm and swung at Ian who ducked.
“I won’t watch you self-destruct anymore,” Ian said. Jeffrey struggled as Ian pulled a wad of cash from his pocket and threw several bills on the table, but was unsteady on his feet.
On the sidewalk, Jeffrey regained his balance and pushed Ian toward the street. He bounced off a black SUV triggering the alarm. Jeffrey took a swing, this time connecting with Ian’s jaw. He swung again and Ian grabbed Jeffrey’s arm pushing him back toward the wall. Jeffrey stumbled a few steps before falling. He struggled to get himself off the ground, refusing Ian’s outstretched hand. He clawed his way up the wall, chest heaving, sweat running down his face.
“Why can’t you leave me alone?” Jeffrey spat out between breaths. “I was having a good time.”
Ian shook his head. “I know you’ve been through some bad things, and you needed time to get your head back on straight, but it’s time to grow up and move on. What kind of life are you leading, getting yourself drunk every weekend, taking home a different girl? You’re poisoning yourself and don’t even know it. You aren’t going to find answers in the bottom of a bottle.”
“Don’t give me your God speech again! I don’t want to have anything to do with a God who would take a vibrant young woman like Camylle out of this world.”
Ian sighed and wrapped an arm around Jeffrey’s waist to support him. “I’m taking you home. We’ll talk tomorrow.”
Jeffrey struggled but Ian’s grip was firm. Finally, he relented and allowed Ian to walk him to the parking garage.
“Are you still living in the bungalow?” Ian asked as he started the engine.
“Yeah,” Jeffrey responded. He closed his eyes and leaned his head against the cool glass. Jeffrey drifted off during the short ride and woke to Ian trying to lift him out of the low sports car. He swung his feet onto the ground and pushed himself up off the seat. He staggered and grabbed the door for balance.
“You want help getting inside?”
“I’m fine,” Jeffrey grumbled. Ian stepped back and Jeffrey heard the car door closing as he stumbled inside the house.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
“Good morning sunshine,” Emma greeted Lizzie with a warm hug as she slipped into the pew. “You don’t look so sunny this morning, though, what’s the matter?”
“I was up too late last n
ight.” Lizzie filled in her friends on the events of the previous evening.
“That’s great news. Things are moving along faster than you expected.”
“They are. I’m going to pick up paint this afternoon, and try to get a couple of rooms painted this week then start the exterior next weekend.”
“Ron and I are hosting a missions luncheon this afternoon, so I’m afraid we won’t be able to come help.”
“Don’t worry about it. I don’t expect you to be there every day.” Lizzie clasped her friend’s hand and gave her an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry if I’ve been asking too much. I know you have other things to take care of while you’re back. Tomorrow I’m contacting several friends from work to see if they can help next weekend. You and Ron take care of your business. You need to help your sister get ready for the wedding. That’s right around the corner now.”
“You haven’t asked too much, honey. I wish we could do more. You know we have always thought of you as a daughter, and we’re proud of you for taking on this project.”
Lizzie nodded, a knot in her throat preventing her from expressing the gratitude she felt.
“Don’t worry, girl,” Emma cooed.
The band started playing the opening bars of “Jesus is Calling” and the congregation rose to its feet. After several songs, Lizzie felt herself relaxing into a familiar peace.
At the end of the service, Lizzie followed the crowd out and moved toward the large, airy foyer to scan the community bulletin board. Business cards and flyers of all colors and sizes promoted a variety of services from handyman to limo driver. She scanned the offers for any services that may help with the new house.
“Lizzie?” a man called from behind. She turned, searching the dozens of people still milling in the breezeway of the sanctuary for a familiar face. “Lizzie,” she heard again, this time accompanied by a wave and a familiar face. The man approached wearing an expensive looking black suit, pale blue shirt and matching paisley tie. He smiled when he caught her eye.
“Ian.” She felt a tingle in her hands upon recognizing him. He smelled of pine and fresh rain. Lizzie inhaled, her senses transported to a serene forest.
“How are you?” Ian stopped just feet from her.
“I’m good. What happened to your face?”