"I work for three places in Detroit while I'm in town. Club Surreal is a nightclub. Strands and Stories—a hair salon. And most frequently is a coffee shop. Espresso Yourself."
"Oh we've been there!" I blurt out not thinking about the repercussions of sharing that piece of information.
Nate pokes my back, and I fight like hell to keep the blood from draining from my face. Violet can't know we saw her and Jamie there, and that's what set this all in motion. That finding her sitting across from an attractive man sent me into a tailspin of rage and revenge.
My throat closes over as Jamie and Violet wait for me to continue.Fuck, did my eyes widen in panic?They must have, because there's no way I could control my worry.
Thankfully, Nate steps in all smooth and ready to cover for me. "When we moved to Ferndale, we werelooking for the best places for a date. Espresso Yourself caught our eye. Your photos brought us there, V. They are amazing!"
Violet blushes so prettily, and she takes another sip. "Thank you, Nate. Their coffee and pastries are amazing. I love bringing in more business for them."
I make a mental note to give Nate a lengthy blowjob later. He saved our asses with his explanation and praise.
"When is your next trip again?" Jamie asks this time, and I'm struck by their odd relationship. They're so comfortable with each other and move like they're in love, yet Jamie doesn't know some of the most basic things about her.
Violet frowns and pulls her phone out. She fiddles with it for a few moments, and I imagine she's checking her calendar or something.
Her lips twist in concentration, then she answers Jamie without looking up. "End of February, then another one mid-March."
"How long are you usually gone for?" I ask just as Jamie narrows his eyes at her.
"A week or two," Violet says, still focused on her phone.
Jamie taps her knee. "This will be the longest you've been home in a long time. Then two closely scheduled trips after. Is something going on with your boss?"
Violet glances at him. "They are working on their new vibes, and direction for this year. I won't waste my time taking photos until we have our meeting about what they're looking for."
"Okay." Jamie nods like he gets it. I'm sure he does. He can't create a tattoo design until he knows what his customer is looking for.
"So anyway?—"
"What are you doing for your birthday?" I ask at the same time, unintentionally cutting Violet off.
"Well, I was going to ask Jamie if he wanted to go out to eat after I'm done hanging out with my roommate."
"You were?" Jamie looks like a kid who got a load of candy dumped on his lap. "You want to celebrate together this year?"
"Jamie and I share the same birthday," Violet explains before nodding at Jamie. "Please?"
"Of course, Sweets!" Jamie beams and kisses her hand once he steals it from beneath her blanket. "I wouldloveto. Thank you."
Jesus. If I wasn't sure before about their love for each other, I would be now. The way they're looking at each other is the same way Nate and I do. The same way Violet used to look at us and us at her.
The night continues with surface-level conversation. Sharing more about our work lives, what brought us to Ferndale, and upcoming vacations. Once the topics fizzle out, leaving us with a strange tension, Nate and I decide it's time to head home.
Maybe in the future we can do something about the tension we felt. Whether it's having a deeper talk, or acting on our attraction, I hope we can make it there.
As much as I want to stay with Jamie and Violet, tonight went way better than expected. So leaving Vfeeling positive about us is the best choice, especially when she starts to yawn.
I didn't get a kiss or a hug, but Jamie did shake my hand, and Violet offered us a small wave. The small wins are enough for now.
Thirty-One
VIOLET
Ifeel like I can't breathe.
The unknown is a suffocating void, and the only thing that can give me oxygen is having my mama back.
