EXCERPT from PAX
Deanna was incredibly grateful every day for this peaceful oasis that Faith had allowed her to enjoy. The home was enormous, too big for one person, but it was immaculately kept, expertly decorated, and perfectly situated on the ocean.
In the mornings, she would rise, take a walk on the beach with her hood up, her face mostly covered, and then return to have her coffee on the front porch. Occasionally, someone would walk by and wave, wishing her a good morning. But for the most part, they were staying to themselves, and she liked it that way.
Faith had called a few times to be sure she was alright. When the phone rang, Deanna jumped a mile. Who had a house phone any longer? But she knew that they were probably worried about her and wanted to be sure she didn’t need anything.
Hearing the knock on the door, she figured it was some kid selling candy or magazines or something. She pulled the hat low over her face and opened the door to see four bags of groceries sitting at her feet.
“What in the world,” she whispered.
“I figured you’d be hungry,” said Pax. “I know I am.”
“Pax,” she gasped. “Wh-what are you doing here?”
“You left without saying goodbye. You didn’t tell me where you were going. You didn’t call to tell me you were alright. And you damn sure didn’t give me the chance to ask you to stay.”
“A-ask…”
“Look, I get that you want to be alone right now, and that’s okay. I’ll sleep in the porch swing. It’s not a big deal. But I am not leaving here without you, Deanna. You can’t make me.”
She stared at him, unable to comprehend why he would be there, why he would be acting this way.
“You should get those groceries inside. There’s ice cream in one and fish in the other. I like a good piece of fish.”
“I’m not a very good cook,” she said softly.
“I am. Will you let me come in, Deanna?” He walked slowly toward her, reaching for the bags in her hands, then grasping the other two with little effort. He leaned closer to her face, turning his head to see beneath the ball cap.
“Please, Deanna. Will you let me come in and fix you dinner?”