Page 32 of Chasing Mr. December

John can see the disappointment on my face and quickly interjects, “It might not be too late. He said he had to make a stop before heading out. I think his dad was sharing a cup of cider with yours by the food trucks.”

The two of them look at one another, and I can tell by their grim expressions that it’s a long shot at best. I know he’s gone. The boys make small talk, thanking me for all of my hard work, but it’s like white noise. I can barely hear anything over the thrumming of my pulse in my ears.

John excitedly shares that all of the animals were adopted but two. “And those will probably become new family members to a few of our firefighter brothers.” I’m sure they’re trying to comfort me in any way they can.

John waves goodbye and heads toward his truck as Layton drops his large hand on my shoulder. “Hey, my ride’s right there. Let me drop you off with your dad. Just in case you can catch Jason before he leaves.”

“Thanks.” But as we drive down the path to the food trucks, where my dad and Calvin sit on a wooden bench, the finality of the situation starts to become a painful reality.

Jason’s dad confirms his station back home called asking if he’d mind working in the morning.

“Duty calls bright and early when you’re in service to the public. You should be really proud of that young man, Calvin.”

“That I am, Nigel. That I am.”

I should be reveling in all I’ve accomplished, but I’m so heartbroken. I’m not sure what I expected once his time here was over, but it certainly wasn’t this. I try to contain my emotions until I’m tucked safely away in my apartment. After the work I did on the calendars, helping the shelter, and promoting the town with the festivities, I should be allowed to hold up in my tub and have a good cry.I mean, it is Bathtub Day.I sniffle.

As I stumble toward my car, my eyes slice over to Ian’s. I was so busy today, I barely said five words to him and Joy. Unable to read his expression through the tears threatening to fall, I get in and quickly turn the ignition. I need to get out of here before people start asking what’s wrong, and I fall apart for all to see.

On the way back to my place, I argue with myself over how ridiculous I’m being. What did I think would happen? We weren’t even dating. It’s only been a few weeks. Not to mention, there’s still so much bad blood between my brother and him. My earlier questions regarding his sexual prowess return, bringing nausea with it. Was I just a hook up? A fling with the forbidden fruit? This thought shifts my current feelings of angst to anger.

Don’t go there, Quinn. That’s simply more than you can handle right now.

Chapter 22

Jason

“Thought I’d find you here.”

I glance up to see the very last person I’d expect. Or care to, for that matter. “What do you want?”

Ian sits down on the hillside, leaving plenty of room between us. I’m beyond irritated. I’d returned to my favorite spot in Magnolia Point, a hidden gem where the bluff overlooks a wide sandy expanse before it extends to the surf. I’d come here often to try to deal with the raw emotions over losing my mother at such a young age. Ian knew this, as he was my best friend and confidant during those tumultuous times. But his presence is no longer welcome.

When Quinn didn’t arrive at the tree lighting, I felt panic set in. It’s odd really. I brave fires and resuscitate patients and never have I experienced anxiety. Yet this felt like my life was comingfull circle. The past predicting my future. As if I was on center stage while all of Magnolia Point was watching it unfold again.

Sure, there could’ve been any number of reasons for Quinn to not be there. She was juggling a lot at that festival. But I’ve allowed myself to develop feelings for this young woman I hadn’t intended. And honestly, I wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of emotions when she didn’t show.

To feel so rejected.

It’s crazy. I mean, this is so new. Once she arrived, would she have laughed if I wanted to pursue a relationship while living in another state? Would she have dismissed me as Corinne had for wanting a life in Sycamore Mountain? Was I simply a fling? Her life seems so full here with her family and career.

Hearing Ian’s movements beside me pulls me from my spiderweb of questions. My head is clearly in a tailspin over his little sister. And this fucker is the last person who can help me.

“When I saw Quinn earlier, she seemed upset. She jumped into her car, trying to hide it. But I know my sister. While I suspect this may be related to you somehow, I didn’t call her. Didn’t pry. I lost the right to know your business years ago. But seeing you here confirms it.”

I can’t look at him. But hearing that Quinn was upset does have my hackles drawn.

“Initially, I was worried. Had to at least consider whether you could hurt my sister to get back at me.”

My head spins in his direction so fast I’m shocked I haven’t catapulted myself off the side of this cliff.

“Woah. Woah. I had to at least consider it. She’s my baby sister. But I know you, Jase. You’d never intentionally hurt anyone. And from what I could see, you two seemed happy. Much happier than I ever remember you with—”

Looking back to the ocean below, I grit my teeth. I’m not talking about Quinn with this asshole. Little sister or not.

“I thought I loved her. Made excuses for why I couldn’t say no when she came on to me. I was weak. But it was all an act. I fell for it hook, line, and sinker. I was merely a meal ticket. I’ll be paying for my crimes for a long time.” From the corner of my eye, I see him toss a rock toward the sand below. “Karma is a bitch with a long memory.”

My head snaps back in his direction, hoping he isn’t referring to Joy.

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