Peace was slow in coming, however. She felt vulnerable here, alone. It was only a matter of time before Patrick found her.
Robert had promised to keep her safe, but could he do it when he couldn’t stand to be around her? At least that was the vibe he’d given off yesterday.
Patrick wouldn’t give up without a fight. It was only a matter of time before he figured out where she was. She hoped her decision to leave Patrick didn’t get her mother or Robert hurt.
Jessie continued to sketch as a flock of geese settled on the lake. It was all so beautiful. She loved this lake and this cabin. Memories of this place and Robert had assaulted her all night.
Her hand stilled as her gaze drifted to the dining table where Robert’s brother and sister had laid out a romantic dinner for them five years ago. There had been a look of excitement and anticipation on Robert’s face. That is, until she’d crushed it.
It was at that table, with candles flickering and the smell of roses filling the air, that she’d told him of the internship her professor had recommended her for at the MET.
“The Met?” Surprise registered on Robert’s face. “As in the Metropolitan Museum of Art? In New York City? Are you planning on applying?”
“I did a few weeks ago.” Excitement bubbled in Jessie. “I didn’t mention it to you because I didn’t think I’d get it.”
Robert’s face fell, but he quickly recovered. “You got it? That’s amazing, Jess!” He sprang to his feet and pulled her into his arms. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving.”
“Thank you. I was afraid you’d be upset.” Jessie grimaced.
They took their seats again.
“Why did you think I would be upset?”
“Well, we’ve been making plans for the future...” Jessie’s voice faded.
Robert’s gaze dropped to the table. “When do you leave?”
“I have to be there in two weeks.” Jessie fiddled with her napkin.
“Two weeks?” Robert’s eyes widened. “That’s soon.”
“I know, and there’s so much to do.”
“How long does the internship last?”
“It’s only a year, but if all goes well, I’ll get a permanent position.”
“A permanent position?” His voice squeaked a little. “So, you’ll stay in New York?”
At her shrug, Robert stood and walked to the picture window. He shoved his hands deep into his pockets and stared into the darkness.
Jessie studied his rigid posture. He was upset. She didn’t blame him. She hadn’t bothered to tell him about the internship, thinking that if they rejected her, the disappointment would be easier to bear if no one knew.
She’d been accepted, though, and Jessie couldn’t wait to follow her dreams. But she was torn. She loved Robert and didn’t want to leave him.
Robert’s heart was here in this small town where he knew everybody’s name, where he could hike or ride all day without seeing another person. He’d never be happy in New York City.
As much as Jessie loved him, she couldn’t stay here without ever trying to achieve her dreams when they were within reach.
She stood behind Robert, slipped her arms around him, and laid her cheek against his muscular back. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I honestly didn’t think I’d get the internship.”
Robert unwrapped her arms and moved away. “But you did.”
She stepped toward him. “We still have two weeks together.”
“And then what?” Anger laced his words as he took another step away.
“I don’t know.” Jessie’s throat ached as she blinked back tears. “I love you and I don’t want to leave you.”
