“Do you regret taking the job?”
“It’s not that. It was the right thing to do. I’m just dreading leaving, that’s all. I believe I’ll like my new job, but I’ll sure miss you and my mom and Ty and being out on the water every day.”
“I’ll miss you too. It’s been fun catching up. How’d Miss Molly take the news?”
“She was sad about it, but she knew it was coming. She already hassomeone lined up for my spot.” Jenna glanced around at her friends and neighbors. This island had laid such a great foundation for her. She admired its hardy people, its unique history, its beautiful scenery, and its wild ponies. “I really do love this place.”
Sofia tilted her a look. “AndTy?”
A dreamy smile curled Jenna’s lips. “Especially Ty.” Ever since their declaration a week ago, the two had been trading “I love yous” on the daily. It was nice. More than nice. The relationship felt so different from what she’d had with Jason and those before him. Her feelings for Tyson were on an entirely different scale. It was exhilarating and awe-inspiring.
And, if she was honest, a little scary.
Maybe a lot scary. Doubt edged in at the thought of their separation. Fear of losing him the way she’d lost her father wrapped around her like a tentacle, squeezing until she could barely breathe.
But she couldn’t see Tyson andnotwant him.Notneed to be with him. It wasn’t even a choice.
“You guys are really good together,” Sofia said.
“It’s so easy with him.”
“I love the way he looks at you when you’re not looking.”
“How’s that?”
“Oh, you know... like he can’t believe you’re his.”
Jenna went soft inside. “I’m the lucky one. I’ve always known he was a great guy, but he’s an even better boyfriend. He sent me flowers this week. They’re so beautiful. I put them in my room so my mom wouldn’t have to see them.”
Sofia gave her an empathetic look. “How’s she doing? Did Gordon ever call back?”
Mom had called the day after she’d received his check in the mail but had gotten voicemail. “He did, but he’s still uncertain about theirfuture and dealing with some pretty heavy issues from his past.” Apparently his ex-wife had had major trust issues. He caught the fallout from that, and he was wary about navigating those waters again. Of course, Mom didn’t actually have trust issues. “I never should’ve made her doubt Gordon.”
Sofia took her hand. “Don’t be so hard on yourself. You were just trying to protect her.”
“And look how that worked out. She’s utterly heartbroken.”
“Is it over for good then?”
Jenna gave her head a shake. “He said he’d like to keep in touch. I’m still praying he comes around.”
Tyson and Jack appeared, drinks in hand. They took their seats, still engaged in a conversation about the upcoming football season. Jenna took a sip of Diet Coke as the band headed back to the stage.
The air-raid siren blared and the noise level in the room decreased.
Tyson whipped out his phone and checked the screen. “There’s a fire over on Willow. Sorry, guys, have to go.” He reached for his wallet.
“I’ve got it,” Jenna said. “Go ahead.”
“Thanks. Call you later.” He gave her a peck on the lips, then took off toward the stairway, already in firefighter mode.
Willow Street was just down the road, but he’d have to go to the firehouse for his turnout gear. The whole thing shredded Jenna’s nerves.
Sofia patted her hand. “He’ll be fine.”
“Of course.” But that didn’t stop the niggle of worry that wormed through Jenna’s veins.
The engine’s siren wailed as it cut through traffic on the way to the scene. Adrenaline pumped through Tyson’s veins as he watched the houses speed by.
