21. Luke
21
Luke
I t’s pitch-dark by the time I arrive home. I’m out of my truck and across the yard in seconds, praying like hell she’s still awake. No lights illuminate her bedroom when I sprint by heading toward her back door. With a little luck, maybe she’s left it unlocked. I’m fully aware how stalker-like this is, but I don’t care. I need to see her.
It hadn’t been my plan to be gone all damn day. A buddy from work needed help moving furniture, so I thought it would be quick, a few hours tops. I couldn’t wait to get back home to her and help her with her project. Then, Ms. Carol asked if I could pick up some groceries for her because she hasn’t been feeling well. And then I just had to answer when Sadie called—her piece-of-shit car broke down. Again.
I should have texted Greer again. I should have made sure my phone was charged. I should have had a damn charger in my truck. I should have done so many things differently. I borrowed Sadie’s charger while I fixed her car, and when I got back in my truck later, there was a flood of mixed calls and texts, each one like a punch to the gut. Her last message broke my heart.
“Are you okay? I’m worried.”
No, everything wasn’t okay. All I wanted was to get to her, but I couldn’t just leave Sadie stranded. We may not be on great terms, and I know most people would have ignored their ex’s calls, but what if I don’t answer and something terrible happens? I couldn’t live with myself if it did.
The patio is dark and no interior lights are on, but I try the sliding door anyway. It doesn’t budge. I spy a few paintbrushes and paint trays lying on the ground drip drying, and my stomach drops. This girl never asks for help, and when she finally does, I leave her hanging. I know she’s probably sleeping, but I send a text, my heart lodged in my throat.
Me : I’m home now. I’m sorry. I can explain. Hope you’re sleeping well.
I close the screen, and then I trudge to my house. She’s been through hell and here I go causing her unnecessary worry. I’ve got my head low, so I almost miss the plate of food sitting on the log near the door. I unfold the note perched on top and heave a great sigh of relief at Greer’s loopy writing. Hey, you, I’m really worried she’s practically an employee.
She scoffs. “Yeah, right. I couldn’t do that. Plus, I’ve got a job, one that I actually really like. Most of the time.”
“You do, but what if you changed careers? Could be fun and you know you’d be great at it.”
“They’ve got me under contract for the next school year already, so it’s probably not an option. Anyway, when do I get to see you?”
July has flown by in a blink. It feels like yesterday we were celebrating the Fourth, and I was falling head over heels in love with Greer. We’ve been pretty busy on shift lately with the wildfire season. John is here covering for Vinnie who’s out on assignment a few towns over.
“I work today and tomorrow, but then you’re mine.”
“Okay, well, I better let you go. Be safe. I lo—” Her cheeks flush. “Um, okay, bye!” She gives me one of her classic awkward waves. Yeah, I love you too.