Chapter Twenty-Three
Anya
I clear my throat, breaking Lana and Caleb's moment, and Lana shoots us a wide smile along with a playful look. "Oops, sorry," she says, but her mischievous grin suggests otherwise. "Let's be honest, if I had to pretend that I didn't know exactly what you two were doing back there, you can endure my short make-out session with Caleb here." Caleb gives us an awkward smile and a wave. "Hey, I'm Caleb," he introduces himself.
Jacob and I wave back awkwardly, returning his greeting with a polite "Hey." Lana and Caleb then resume their affectionate display, prompting me to speak up. "Lana, I'm hungry!" I say loudly, hoping to get her attention. But she simply waves us off, engrossed in her own world of romance.
"If I don't get some lunch soon, it's not gonna be pretty!" I shout again, still ignored by Lana and Caleb. Then Jacob interjects with a humorous remark, "Okay Lana, I'm just gonna take out Anya to lunch, because unlike you, I would rather not spend my only day here with a girlfriend who is mad at me because someone else made her mad."
"Hey!" I playfully protest, giving Jacob a playful smack on his arm. Despite the teasing, I know he has a point. I do tend to get a bit testy when I'm hungry, and I don't discriminate about who bears the brunt of it. I feel bad afterward, of course, but in the moment, well, let's just say I can be a bit of a handful.
Jacob takes my hand and guides us out of the car. Luckily, Caleb's place is near the boardwalk, so we decide to head there. The sun beats down on us, and the boardwalk is bustling with people, unsurprising for July 4th, especially with the promise of fireworks later in the evening. As we walk, I can't help but wonder where we'll catch the fireworks show, considering the crowded beach.
"Where do you want to eat?" Jacob asks as we step onto the boardwalk.
"Honestly, I'm not picky as long as it's greasy and hot!" I reply with a laugh.
"Alright, pizza it is," Jacob decides.
My stomach chimes in agreement, growling at the mere mention of pizza. New Jersey pizza has always been a favorite of mine, second only to New York's, and the thought of sinking my teeth into a slice ignites my appetite.
Following Jacob, we navigate through the sea of people, squeezing our way toward the nearest pizza joint on the boardwalk. It's a struggle to make progress amidst the throngs of holiday-goers, but the promise of cheesy goodness keeps us motivated. Today might not be the ideal time for a boardwalk lunch, especially during peak hours, but we're determined to satisfy our hunger regardless.
Suddenly, Jacob's voice cuts through the chatter with a blend of politeness and firmness, "Excuse me, pardon me!" His words ring out loudly enough to catch everyone's attention, and as if under a spell, the crowded pizza shop parts like the Red Sea. I can't help but feel a rush of warmth at the way he effortlessly commands attention, almost like a gentle force of nature.
Jacob places a reassuring hand on my back and guides me through the now-open pathway toward the counter. "You didn't have to do that, we would've made it to the front eventually," I remark, genuinely impressed by his assertiveness.
"Babe, you're hungry, and I just wanted you to get food as quickly as possible," he responds casually, as if it's the most natural thing in the world. Despite his nonchalant attitude, I can't shake the feeling of awe. How does a man like him find himself involved with someone like me? But for now, all I can focus on is the rumbling in my stomach, pushing aside any doubts or insecurities.
We step outside, our arms laden with steaming slices of pizza, scanning the bustling boardwalk for an empty bench. With all the tables inside occupied, we settle for a spot with a view of the beach.
I dive into my slices of pepperoni and sausage pizza with gusto, devouring them so quickly that even I'm surprised. Jacob hands me a stack of napkins to combat the inevitable grease stains on my hands and arms. As I wipe them off, I realize there's still some residue on my face. Before I can react, Jacob calmly reaches over and wipes the corners of my lips with another napkin.
Caught off guard by his gesture, I instinctively wipe my mouth, even though there's nothing left to clean. Jacob chuckles softly and leans in to give me a tender kiss.
"Mmmm, I like kissing you," he murmurs with a smirk, planting another kiss on my lips.
I snicker playfully. "Yeah, well, that's only because I taste like pizza grease," I quip.
He chuckles, shaking his head. "I think I'll always want to be kissing you," he replies, his words making my cheeks flush with warmth.
“You sure have a way with words,” I tease.
“I just go after what I want, sweetheart,” he grins back.
I can't help but roll my eyes and shake my head. But then he leans in closer and I feel a jolt of electricity through my body. “If you keep rolling your eyes at me, I might have to take you behind one of these buildings and give you a spanking,” he playfully threatens.
His words make my heart race, and normally the thought of anyone laying a hand on me would send me running. But there's something about Jacob that tells me he wouldn't actually hurt me; it would be for his own pleasure, as well as my own. The thought sparks a warm sensation through my body, even though it's already sweltering outside.
I chuckle nervously, trying to mask the sudden heat rising to my cheeks. "You wish," I retort, my tone a mix of amusement and surprise.
Jacob flashes me a mischievous grin, his eyes dancing with playful delight. "Oh, I don't just wish, Anya," he says teasingly, his voice low and suggestive. "I have a feeling you might just enjoy it."
I raise an eyebrow incredulously, feeling a mixture of amusement and curiosity at his boldness. "Is that so?" I reply, unable to suppress a playful smirk. "And what makes you so sure?"
He leans in even closer, his breath warm against my ear as he whispers, "Because I know you, Anya. And I know exactly how to make you squirm."
A shiver runs down my spine at his words, a tantalizing thrill coursing through me. Despite the playful banter, there's an underlying intensity in his gaze that sends my heart racing. It's as if he's peeling back layers of my inhibitions, daring me to embrace the unexpected.
Before I can respond, Jacob leans back with a devilish grin, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "But for now, how about we finish our pizza and enjoy the rest of the day?" he suggests casually, as if our previous exchange had been nothing more than a lighthearted joke.
I laugh, feeling a mixture of relief and excitement at the return to lighter conversation. "Sounds like a plan," I agree, feeling grateful for the easy rapport we share.
As we sit together on the boardwalk, basking in the warmth of the summer sun and the promise of a carefree day ahead, I can't help but wonder what other surprises Jacob has in store. And despite my initial reservations, I find myself eagerly looking forward to finding out.
As we finish our pizza, Lana and Caleb appear, both wearing satisfied smiles that suggest they've indulged in more than just a meal. I raise an eyebrow at Lana, who winks playfully in response, confirming my suspicion.
"Looks like someone's had a good time," I tease, unable to resist poking fun at Lana's adventurous antics.
She grins unabashedly, draping an arm around Caleb's shoulder. "Oh, you have no idea," she replies with a mischievous gleam in her eye.
Caleb, a blush creeping up his cheeks, gives a sheepish grin and waves in greeting. "Hey there," he says, his voice slightly hoarse from their amorous activities.
Jacob chuckles, exchanging a knowing glance with me. "I hope you guys saved some energy for the fireworks later," he quips, his tone light and teasing.
Lana laughs, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Oh, don't you worry," she says, her tone dripping with innuendo. "We had plenty of fireworks of our own."
I roll my eyes, but can't help but smile at Lana's unabashed enthusiasm. "Well, I hope you saved some room for dessert," I say, gesturing toward the ice cream stand nearby. "Because I could really go for some ice cream right about now."
Jacob nods in agreement, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ice cream sounds perfect," he says, standing up and offering me a hand. "Shall we?"
I take his hand with a smile, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment wash over me. Despite the unexpected twists and turns of the day, being surrounded by friends—and the promise of sweet treats and fireworks—fills me with a sense of joy and anticipation for the rest of the day.
The afternoon unfolds seamlessly after Caleb's gracious invitation to cool off in his pool, a welcomed reprieve from the stifling July heat. With Jacob and Lana by my side, we eagerly accept the offer, relishing the chance to escape the oppressive temperatures. As we lounge by the water, laughter and chatter fill the air, washing away the tension from earlier in the day.
The cool sensation of the pool water soothes my skin, and I find myself relaxing into the moment, enjoying the camaraderie and carefree atmosphere. Despite the lingering unease from the morning's events, being surrounded by friends helps ease my worries, if only for a little while.
As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow across the sky, Caleb suggests that we stay to watch the fireworks from his backyard. With his brother's party in full swing, the air is filled with music and the aroma of grilled food, adding to the festive atmosphere. We gladly accept the invitation, eager to witness the dazzling display of lights that will soon illuminate the night sky.
As twilight settles and the first bursts of fireworks fill the air, we gather on the grassy lawn, our eyes fixed on the spectacle above. Each explosion paints the sky with vibrant colors, and I can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty unfolding before me. Surrounded by friends, immersed in the magic of the moment, I feel a fleeting sense of peace wash over me.
Amidst the crackling of fireworks and the delighted exclamations of the crowd, I steal glances at Jacob, his face illuminated by the colorful display above. He glances back at me and then walks behind me wrapping me in his arms. Feeling the warmth of Jacob's chest against mine, I bask in the comfort of his presence amidst the cool night air.
As the final bursts of fireworks fade into the darkness, the crowd begins to disperse, each person drifting off to enjoy the rest of the evening in their own way. Some head off to grab more food, while others make their way back to the inviting waters of the pool.
Engaged in a casual conversation with someone from the party, I'm momentarily distracted until Caleb approaches Jacob, drawing his attention away. I catch snippets of their conversation, and it dawns on me that Lana must have mentioned Jacob's impending departure for boot camp in the fall. The reminder sends a pang of unease through me, but I push aside the apprehension that threatens to resurface.
I recall the moment Jacob shared his orders with me over a video call, the earnestness in his eyes reassuring me of the validity of his plans. He even went as far as emailing me the official documents, a gesture that spoke volumes of his commitment and honesty.
"That's so crazy that you're heading into the Army, I have a buddy here who's cousin is in the Marines," Caleb's voice drifts over to us, interrupting our conversation. The mention of the Marines always sends a shiver down my spine, triggering memories of Paul's incessant boasting about his supposed ties to the military. I'm relieved that Jacob is joining the Army instead, sparing me from the discomfort of hearing more stories about the Marines.
"Ah, yeah, that's cool," Jacob replies politely, though I can sense a hint of tension in his voice. He wraps his arm around me, a silent gesture of reassurance. "You doing okay?" he asks, his concern evident in his eyes.
I offer him a small smile, grateful for his consideration. "Yeah, I'm good," I assure him, though the unease still lingers. "It's just hard hearing people talk about the military sometimes, but I'll get over it."
"We can leave if you want," Jacob suggests, his tone earnest. "I really don't care if I talk to this guy or not. I just didn't want to be rude."
I shake my head, reaching up to gently touch his cheek. "No, it's okay, really," I reassure him. "I'll be alright. If it gets to be too much, I can always find Lana or grab some more food."
Jacob rubs my back soothingly, his touch sending a comforting warmth through me. "Anya, I don't mind," he insists, sincerity shining in his eyes. "The last thing I want is for you to feel uncomfortable."
His words touch my heart, and I'm overwhelmed by his kindness and thoughtfulness.
“MARCUS!” Caleb shouts one more time and both Jacob and I roll our eyes and Caleb’s incessantness to get his friend. “Hey, man don’t worry about it” Jacob says to Caleb, “we’re gonna be heading out soon anyway” he tells him.
“Oh nah man, just hang on, he’s on his way” Caleb insists. We both roll our eyes again and shake our heads. “I’m gonna go grab a drink” I tell Jacob. He nods his head and kisses my temple. “Okay, I’ll join you in a bit, just let me try to get out of this conversation” he replies. I let out a small laugh, “good luck”. He playfully scoff “yeah tell me about it”.
I take a sip of my drink and engage in some casual conversation with the people around me. But when I glance back to where Jacob was, my heart plummets. A surge of panic grips me, my breath quickening as my chest tightens. The sound of breaking glass echoes in the background, but I can't tear my eyes away from Jacob and the guy he's talking to.
My name is called out, but it's drowned out by the thunderous beat of my heart. No, no, no, please let him not be here, I silently beg, my mind racing with fear. I instinctively scan the rest of the crowd, my panic escalating with each passing second.
Lana steps in front of me, her voice cutting through the chaos. "Hey! Anya!" she shouts, urgency evident in her tone. I finally tear my gaze away from the crowd, my breaths coming in quick gasps. Lana guides me to the front of the house and gently seats me down.
As the panic tightens its grip around my chest, Lana instructs someone to fetch a paper bag. Seconds later, she hands it to me, her voice calm but firm. "Breathe into this, Anya," she says, her eyes reflecting concern. I obey, inhaling and exhaling into the paper bag, trying to steady my racing heart and regain control of my breathing, but it doesn’t work.
All eyes are on me, and I feel exposed, vulnerable. The guy Jacob was talking to notices me, and a flicker of recognition crosses his face. Panic surges through me as he starts walking toward us. "No! NO! Don’t let him come over here!" I cry out, my voice trembling with fear.
Jacob reacts swiftly, intervening before the guy can reach us. He rushes over to me, his eyes filled with concern and panic mirroring my own. "Anya! What's wrong? What happened?" he asks urgently.
"He can't be here! He can't be here!" I repeat frantically, the words tumbling out in a desperate mantra. My body begins to rock back and forth involuntarily, the panic threatening to overwhelm me.
Sensing my distress, Jacob pulls me onto his lap, holding me tightly as he tries to calm me down. "Shh, you're safe, shh, I got you, baby," he whispers soothingly, his voice a comforting anchor in the midst of my turmoil.
With a gesture to Lana, Jacob silently signals that it's time to leave. Tenderly, he carries me to the SUV, settling me back on his lap as he continues rubbing small circles on my back.