Page 28 of Love's Cure

When she was finally able to take a break, Emmett was gone. It was just as well she told herself. After tossing and turning in bed all night, she’d decided to spend as little time with him as possible.

During the quieter, mid-morning time, Whitney appeared in the Café alone.

“Where’s the baby?” Crystal asked.

Whitney did a little happy dance, then became serious. “I’m out on my own, taking a break. I wanted to talk to you privately. I heard the story about Emmett’s mother making a scene at Jake’s. I wanted to be sure you’re alright.”

Crystal grimaced. “I’m trying to put everything in perspective. Having seen his mother just briefly, I can understand why Emmett wanted to change his name to save his identity. His mother was very unpleasant, and we’ve all heard tales about his father. He’s among the worst of the notorious politicians for various reasons.”

“Yes, his reputation is awful,” agreed Whitney. “I know someone who lives on Mt. Desert and is acquainted with the family. She feels sorry for Emmett’s mother for the way her husband treats her but says that Natalie has become impossibly overbearing and rude. Especially after having a few drinks.”

“Yes, I can attest to that,” said Crystal. “She certainly didn’t like me or my purple hair.”

“She doesn’t know you or she’d know why such a thing as your hair doesn’t matter to friends. I know why you color it and believe it’s your right to wear it any way you like. Really, making your hair an issue is ridiculous.”

“Ah, but people everywhere are judged for things they can’t change. That’s why I’ve decided not to change it.” She patted her soft curls. By keeping her hair colored, she’d always felt known in a different way from her childhood.

“I love you,” said Whitney, throwing her arms around her. “You’re so strong.”

“Not as strong as you think, but I’m trying,” said Crystal, hugging her back.

“Okay, meet Nick and me for dinner at Jake’s, our treat,” said Whitney. “I think it’s important that everyone knows you’re not going to let that scene prevent you from enjoying yourself.”

Crystal held up her hand for a high-five and Whitney clapped it.

“Thatta girl,” said Whitney, “now how about a cup of coffee before I head back home.”

Crystal signaled a waitress who came right over to them with a coffee pot. “This one’s on me.”

Whitney laughed. “I’ll take it.”

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As the time drew near, Crystal wondered if Emmett would place a lunch order. When he didn’t, she figured that particular part of their friendship was over. No lunches. No dinners.

She got through the rest of the afternoon by concentrating on the business at hand, though she was trying to come to terms with the end of a friendship that she’d thought was special.

When the time came for her to go to Jake’s, she was more than ready for a break and a chance to be with long-time friends.

As soon as she stepped into the bar, someone called her name. She turned to find Nick and Whitney sitting with Brooks Beckman, one of the owners of Beckman Lumber, with a red-haired man and a blonde she didn’t recognize.

She walked over to them, and the three men stood as Nick made introductions. The redhead was Dirk McArthur, who’d arrived in town to help with his uncle’s dental practice. The regal-looking woman with him was his younger sister, Diana. Both greeted her with ready smiles.

Crystal sat next to Dirk. “I’m happy that you’re here to help your uncle. Dr. Robinson is busier than ever as our little town grows.”

“He encouraged me to go into dental studies, and I figure I owe him for that. I’m here on a trial basis. After a year, if I choose not to stay, there’ll be no hard feelings.”

“I hope you’re able to enjoy the area in both our summer and winter weather. There’s a lot to do,” she said.

“Oh, I know. I used to come to Uncle Bob’s cabin during Christmas vacations to ski.”

“That’s why he was never part of our summer groups,” said Nick.

“I went to summer camp in Maine and then did some traveling abroad,” Dirk explained.

“Our mother and stepfather have a part-time home in Italy,” said Diana. “Dirk and I have spent summers there for the last several years.”

“That sounds lovely,” said Crystal. “All that food, wine, and cheese ... well, you know what I’m talking about.”

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