Chapter 28
Austin
Violet: Hey, Megan came to the coffee shop and insulted me. I'm okay, but that woman is horrible.
Me: I’m so sorry. I really don’t understand what's wrong with her. I've never given her any hope that we will be together.
Me: I will fix it beautiful. See you at lunch.
Putting my phone in my pocket, I take a deep breath. Adjusting my bag on my shoulder, I say goodbye to Liza with a quick wave and head to my car. The engine hums to life, and as I drive through Honey Springs, the sun casts a golden glow over the familiar streets.
A few minutes later, I pull into the parking lot of the town hall, the historic brick building standing tall against the clear blue sky. Its arched windows and white columns radiate a sense of permanence and tradition, but today, I’m here to disrupt the status quo.
Lily, the town hall receptionist, greets me with a bright smile as I walk in. Her desk is neatly arranged, a bowl of colorful mints sitting at the edge.
“Hi, Austin. How are you?” she asks, her voice as cheerful as ever.
“Hi, Lily. I’m good. Can you tell me if Megan is in her office?” I ask, keeping my tone even. Megan is the daughter of the mayor and a constant thorn in my side, and she’s about to get a piece of my mind.
“Yes, you can go right in,” Lily replies, her smile faltering just slightly as she senses the seriousness in my tone.
“Thanks, Lily.”
The hallway leading to Megan’s office is quiet except for the echo of my boots on the polished floor. Sunlight filters through the high windows, painting the walls with patches of light and shadow. When I reach her door, I knock firmly.
Inside, Megan is at her desk, filing her nails while a Netflix show plays on her laptop. She doesn’t even try to hide it. Her gaze shifts lazily to me, and a smug smile spreads across her face as she swivels her chair to face me.
“Very busy, I see,” I say, sarcasm dripping from my words.
“Hi, Austin,” she replies, her tone saccharine and fake. “What brings you to my office?” Her eyes gleam with ambition, a calculated sparkle that only irritates me further.
“I’m here because you’ve been messing with my girlfriend,” I say, crossing my arms. “I want to talk to you about your rude comments and the way you act toward Violet.”
“Don’t tell me she ran crying to you. What is she, five?” Megan retorts, leaning back in her chair with a smirk.
“That’s the same question I was going to ask you,” I fire back, leveling her with a glare. “Let me be clear, Megan. I’ll only say this once. Are you listening?”
She straightens slightly, her smirk faltering. “Yes.”
“I don’t want you, and I will never be with you. What happened between us was a long time ago. When we broke up, I was clear that I was never going back to you. So please, do me a favor and stop harassing my girlfriend. Next time, I won’t be nice.”
“But…but, Austin,” she stammers, her voice rising to a whine. “Come on. Why her? Why not me?”
Her petulance is almost laughable, but it’s more embarrassing than anything else. “Did you forget you tried to hook up with my best friend? Or that you cheated on me with half the grade during the one month we dated in high school? That’s why, Megan. It’s crystal clear. So stop. I don’t appreciate you going behind my back and bad-mouthing Violet.”
I nearly say “the woman I love”, but those words are reserved for Violet, and she’ll hear them first. Without waiting for Megan’s response, I turn on my heel and leave her office.
Behind me, the sound of objects being thrown and Megan’s frustrated yelling echoes through the hallway. Passing Lily’s desk, I catch her smothering a laugh.
“That was fun. Thanks for putting her in her place,” she says, giving me an approving nod.
“You’re welcome. Say hi to Paul for me,” I reply, winking. “And sorry if I made your afternoon rough.”
“Eh, it’s all good,” Lily says with a shrug. “It’s worth it to see Megan losing her shit. I’ll just call a cleaning service to deal with the mess after hours.”
“Good luck with that,” I say, chuckling.
As I head out the door, Lily adds, “For what it’s worth, Violet is amazing. You chose well, and so did she.”
Her words linger as I step outside, the sun warm on my face and the scent of freshly cut grass in the air. A weight lifts from my shoulders. Hopefully, Megan will take the message and leave us alone.
I stroll back to my car, taking in the familiar sights of my town—the kids laughing by the fountain, the elderly couple sitting on a bench, and the vibrant flowers lining the sidewalks. This is home.
It’s Friday, and the excitement in the air is almost palpable. Violet and I left work early so we could prepare for Adrian’s first soccer game. Violet went all out with snacks and drinks for the kids. I swear, she’s more excited about this game than Adrian is.
We ordered matching team shirts to wear, and I’m now ready, decked out in the shirt, dark jeans, and my favorite pair of sneakers.
I take a quick glance at myself in the mirror and grin.
“Hey, Violet! Adrian!” I call out from the living room. “Are you guys ready to go?”
A few moments later, the door to the hallway opens, and out steps Violet and Adrian.
Violet is wearing tight black yoga pants that hug her curves perfectly, paired with the team shirt. Her hair is pulled into a high ponytail, and she has a wide smile and the sparkle in her eyes show me that she is as excited as I am. She’s holding a cooler bag full of snacks and drinks.
“Let me help you with that,” I say to her while I extend my hand to grab the big bag. When the bag is in my hand Violet stands on her tippy toes and gives me a soft kiss. “Thank you.” I smile at her. These are the moments that make me happy. Simple kisses and soft spoken thank yous.
Adrian, on the other hand, is dressed in his full team uniform: a bright blue jersey, matching shorts, shin guards, and soccer cleats. His face is flushed with excitement, and he’s practically bouncing on his toes.
“Are we going to win today, Austin?” Adrian asks as he tugs on the strap of his backpack.
“Absolutely, buddy,” I say, ruffling his hair. “You have been practicing hard, and I know you’re going to do great out there.”
“Yeah, but I’m a little nervous,” Adrian admits.
“That’s normal,” Violet chimes in, bending down to adjust Adrian’s socks. “Just remember to have fun and do your best. That’s all that matters.”
Adrian nods, taking a deep breath. “Okay, I’ll do my best.”
As we head to the car, Violet and I chat about how excited we are for the game.
“You know, I bought way too many snacks,” Violet says with a laugh. “I’m worried we’ll have leftovers.”
“It’s better to have too much than too little,” I reply, smiling. “Besides, I’m sure the kids will appreciate it.”
“I hope so. I just wanted to make sure everyone has a good time.”
“Trust me, they will,” I assure her. “You’ve thought of everything.”
We pull up to the school, and the soccer field comes into view—a wide stretch of green, the white lines freshly painted, marking the boundaries and goals. The sun's out, casting a golden light over everything. Parents and kids are milling around, some chatting, others getting ready for the game.
I park, and we grab the cooler and foldable chairs from the trunk. The smell of freshly cut grass hits me. There’s a buzz in the air—kids laughing, parents talking. It’s the perfect Friday afternoon.
“Let’s find a good spot,” I suggest, scanning the field for a good vantage point.
We find a spot on the sidelines, near the middle of the field but not too close to the action. I set up the chairs while Violet put the cooler and snacks to the side.
Adrian heads over to join his team, and I watch as he exchanges high-fives with his teammates. He’s chatting with the other kids and trying to get in the zone.
I take my phone from my pocket to text the guys.
Me: Where are you? We are already seated near the middle of the field.
Noah: I’m getting out of my car right now.
Esteban: On my way. Save me a spot.
I turn to Violet and say, “The guys are on their way. Is Josy coming?”
“Yes. She should be here somewhere. Let me text her and see where she is.”
Violet starts texting Josy and while she waits for her response, Noah arrives and puts his seat beside me.
“Where is the tiny bro?” Noah says when he sits and nods at Violet. “Hi, Vi. How are you?”
“Hi, Noah, I’m good. Adrian is over there with his teammates.” Violet points toward Adrian, and Noah looks to the group of boys.
When Noah spots Adrian, they give each other a quick wave before Noah settles in his seat.
“Look at him go,” Violet says, her eyes following Adrian. “He looks so excited and happy.”
“I know. I’m so proud of him,” I say, squeezing her hand. “He’s worked hard for this moment.”
“Yes, he has. But you’ve set aside time to help him practice, and I really appreciate it,” Violet says.
“It’s nothing, beautiful. I love spending time with him. He makes me feel young again, and I love that he’s a smartass. And it’s fun when I’m with the both of you.” Violet blushes at my compliment.
“Hey, guys, I am going to go grab a hot dog. Do you guys want something?” Noah asks as Esteban is arriving and placing his chair beside Noah’s.
“I will go with you, Noah. I want some nachos,” Esteban says while he rubs his belly.
“We are good, thanks,” I say to both of them.
They walk away and I turn to Violet to continue our conversation but she beats me to it by saying, “I have fun, too, you know. But, I have to wonder, was all of this a part of that evil plan that you told me about on our first date?” Violet asks, a playful glint in her eyes.
“Yes. Everything has been planned and crafted so you fall in love with me. Do you think it’s working?”
“I don’t know. I’ve got to see what else is in your master plan, and then I’ll decide,” Violet says mischievously.
I laugh out loud. “Prepare to be completely in love with me soon,” I say, winking at her.
She shakes her head with a small smile on her face. I know it’s probably too early to tell her that I love her, but I can show her.
My love for Violet was born the moment my eyes landed on her. Then it grew with every detail I learned about her. I’ve been paying attention to all her quirks, the way she treats Adrian, the way she is with the people in town, and how she’s always willing to help others. I also love the way she smiles, how her eyes light up when she’s happy. Her body is perfect, and I plan to make her feel beautiful for the rest of her life if she’ll let me.
It’s a compilation of all those things and then some that make me believe I am completely and irrevocably in love with her.
A few minutes later, the guys return with their snacks and sit beside me. I take some photos while Violet grabs a few snacks and hands them to me and Josy who arrived just a few minutes ago. As soon as Josy sits beside Violet, they start talking while they watch Adrian.
“Here, have some chips. We are going to grab a lemonade for us,” Violet says, standing up with Josy and heading toward the concession stand.
“Thanks, beautiful,” I call after her.
As Violet heads off, I watch as Noah is looking at Josy.
“Dude, you are drooling,” I say to Noah.
“I told you that he liked her,” Esteban says.
“Shut the fuck up. I was just looking at the concession stand to see who is here,” Noah says trying to avoid the topic of him and Josy.
“Yeah, right. And I was just born yesterday,” Esteban says.
“Did you talk to her?” I ask Noah.
“Nope. I have been too busy and I have been waiting for the perfect moment.”
“Today is as good as any, my man,” Esteban says while he claps him on the shoulder.
We watch as Adrian and his teammates gather around their coach who’s giving them a pep talk. Adrian looks ready to start this game, he is jumping slightly, releasing some energy. I keep paying attention to the kids when Violet returns with two cups of lemonade, handing one to me with a smile. “Here you go.”
“Thanks,” I say, taking a sip, “you’re the best.”
“I try,” she says with a wink, settling back into her chair. Josy sits beside her but doesn't even look toward me and the guys.
Huh, she really is avoiding Noah at all costs.
The referee blows the whistle, signaling the start of the game. Adrian’s team lines up for the kickoff.
“Let’s go, Adrian!” Violet and I cheer in unison as the game begins.
“I’m so nervous. I never thought that a soccer game could be so exciting,” Esteban says, his eyes glued to the field.
“I know, right? I want to stand and yell at the kids so bad,” Noah adds, fidgeting in his seat.
“If you yell, and they kick you out of the game, I will laugh so hard,” Josy teases, a playful glint in her eyes.
“Well, I just might do it,” Noah replies, his eyes twinkling with mischief. Then, in a whisper, he leans to me so only Esteban and I can hear and adds, “This is the first time that Josy has said something to me.”
“Oh, that’s a start,” Esteban whispers back, nodding encouragingly.
I turn and look at them, bringing a finger to my lips to shush them. I don’t want Josy or Violet to hear us gossiping.
Esteban catches my glance and raises his hands in mock surrender. “I know, I’ll be quiet,” he says, grinning.
I chuckle softly and return my attention to the game. Adrian is already darting around the field, skillfully maneuvering the ball. Violet’s eyes are always tracing Adrian’s steps, and I can see the pride in her face. As the game continues, I glance around at my friends, all of whom are engrossed in the game. Esteban and Noah exchange quiet comments, clearly enjoying watching a bunch of twelve year olds play soccer. Josy is leaning forward in her seat, her eyes following Adrian’s every move, and Violet is completely absorbed, her worry momentarily forgotten.
The match is fast-paced with kids running up and down the field, their little legs moving as quickly as they can. Adrian is right in the thick of it, chasing the ball, making passes, and playing with determination. I capture moments of the action on my phone, trying to get the best shots of Adrian’s efforts.
The kids show their skills and teamwork. Adrian manages to make a couple of impressive plays, and I can see the joy on his face as he runs back to the sidelines for a quick break. Adrian’s team scores a goal, and the crowd erupts in cheers. Violet and I jump to our feet, clapping and shouting encouragement.
“He’s doing great!” Violet exclaims.
“He sure is,” I agree, my heart swelling with so many emotions
“I need to use the bathroom so badly,” Violet states
“Why don’t you go to the bathroom?” I ask.
“I don’t want to miss the game!”
“I’ll record it so you don’t miss anything,” I say, pulling out my phone.
She leans down and gives me a kiss on the lips before standing and heading toward the restroom.
The game is almost over, and they’re tied. So I completely understand her anxiety. They need to make a goal to win this first game, and the kids are fighting for it.
As Violet heads toward the restroom, the tension on the field heightens. I keep my phone aimed at the field, capturing every moment. Just then, Adrian gets the ball. He dribbles skillfully, dodging opponents with ease. He approaches the goal from the side and, with a swift, powerful kick, sends the ball soaring into the net.
The crowd erupts in cheers, and I’m on my feet, my heart pounding with excitement. I run toward Adrian, picking him up and twirling him around. “You did it, buddy! You won the game!
“We won, Austin!” Adrian exclaims, his eyes shining. “I scored a goal! I wish my dad could have come.”
“That’s amazing, buddy!” I continue “I’m so proud of you! Don’t worry, I recorded the winning goal. We can send it to your dad right now.”
“YES!” Adrian exclaims loudly. “Hey, Austin, where is Mom?” Adrian asks as I put him down on the ground.
That’s when I realize that Violet still isn’t back.
“She went to the ladies' room. Let’s go and look for her. Maybe meet her outside the bathrooms.”
“Sure.”
As we walk to the restrooms we pass by our found family. They start congratulating Adrian.
I look toward Josy and ask, “Did Violet come back from the restroom?”
“No. That’s weird,” Josy answers me.
“Stay here with our stuff. Adrian and I will look for her really fast.” Josy nods and Adrian and I walk away from them.
We weave through the crowd, making our way to the restroom area. Everyone is congratulating Adrian on his goal and he is happy with all the extra attention.
I call out Violet's name, but there’s no response. A growing unease settles in my chest. I see Mrs. Baker nearby, chatting with another parent.
“Mrs. Baker!” I call, hurrying over to her with Adrian in tow. “Could you check the ladies' room for Violet? She went in there a while ago and hasn’t come back.”
“Of course, Austin,” Mrs. Baker says, her face turning serious. She heads into the restroom while I wait anxiously outside with Adrian.
It only takes Mrs. Baker a few seconds to return shaking her head.
“She’s not in there, Austin.”
Panic starts to rise within me. I pull out my phone and dial Violet’s number, my hands trembling slightly. The phone rings and rings, but she doesn’t pick up.
“Go to Aunt Josy and the guys, and tell them to come this way,” I say to Adrian and he runs to where they are standing and talking. I don’t know what Adrian says but the guys grab the chairs and our stuff and walk fast toward me.
“Where is she?” Josy asks, her voice tinged with worry.
“I don’t know,” I say, trying to keep my voice calm. “But we’re going to find her.”
“Did you call the police?” Noah asks.
“I’m about to,” I say as I dial Officer Miller’s number next, my heart racing. “Miller, it’s Austin. Violet’s missing. She went to the restroom during the soccer game at the middle school and never came back. I’ve called her, but she’s not answering.”
“Calm down, Austin,” Miller says, his voice steady. “Stay where you are. I’m on my way. We’ll find her.”
As I end the call, I look around frantically, searching the crowd for any sign of Violet.
My mind races with worst-case scenarios, but I force myself to stay focused. I can’t let fear take over.
“We’re going to find her, Adrian,” I say, trying to reassure both him and myself. “I promise.”
We stay near the restroom, eyes scanning the area. Minutes feel like hours as we wait for Officer Miller, each second killing me with anxiety. I hold Adrian close, hoping for any sign of Violet, praying that she’s safe.