Page 44 of Love's Cure

“I hope it works out for you,” said Dani. “Are we going to see you at Jake’s tonight?”

Crystal shook her head. “Emmett and I are going to Stan’s. A patient told him about it, and he’s anxious to go.”

“Okay, well Brad and I will see you another time. Tell Misty we’ll be there and she can join us.”

“Thanks,” Crystal said, grateful for how that summer gang had remained close.

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That night, Emmettdrove down a long dirt road into the woods to Stan’s. The ramshackle wooden building appeared uninviting from the outside, but she knew that the atmosphere inside with red-and-white-checked tablecloths and a small stage for musicians would be welcoming. Best of all, the food was delicious.

A carved sign above the front door read:Stan’s. A colorful metal sign by the door read:craft beers and seafood.

Emmett’s look of doubt changed to one of surprise when they stepped inside and inhaled the aroma of delicious food. First-timers usually became steadfast patrons after a pleasant evening experience.

Onstage, a guitar player was singing jazzy blues songs.

“Very cool,” said Emmett taking a seat at one of the four-top tables.

A waitress appeared wearing a denim skirt and a red T-shirt with Stan’s logo. “What’ll you have?”

Crystal ordered a strawberry lemonade and fried lobster and waited while Emmett decided on a draft beer and fish and chips. It was early enough that there were a few seats left, but Crystal knew the place would fill up shortly and would stay busy until closing.

“There’s a nice path through the woods along the creek. We can work off dinner there,” said Crystal.

Emmett accepted the beer brought to him and tested it. “Delicious craft beer.”

Crystal sipped her lemonade and let out a sigh of contentment. It was nice to be here away from town for a change. “Thanks again for asking Misty to join us. I’m sure you understand that she’s content to stay home for a while.”

“I was happy to see her at Jake’s, but I understand she might need time to adjust to a new life, a safe one,” he answered with concern. “I’ve been thinking about abuse. It isn’t always physical. It can be emotional and with a lot of cruelty. In a way, my household was like that. Emotional mistreatment. Belittling comments.” He shook his head. “I’ve done quite a bit of studying on the topic.”

Crystal remained quiet, aware he wasn’t through talking.

“I suppose every family has some difficulties, but when you have a well-known stepfather who doesn’t have the best character, it makes it hard to be true to yourself and not get sucked into thinking his behavior is okay. That’s always been a struggle with both my parents. That’s why I got out, changed my name, and have made it on my own with an inheritance from my birth grandmother.”

“I admire your choices,” said Crystal. “But they’re still your parents.”

“Yes, that’s the hard part. I still want my family.”

Crystal reached over and wrapped her fingers around his. “You’re lucky you still have one.”

“I know,” he said, lifting her hand and kissing it.

“There you are,” said a voice.

Crystal whipped around and hid her dismay as JoEllen Daniels headed their way.

“I was hoping you took my suggestion. That’s why I’m here. I thought it would be fun to introduce you to my favorite beer, and I already told you about their fish and chips.”

“Hi, Crystal. I didn’t recognize you without your purple hair. May I join you?”

Emmett looked surprised and glanced at Crystal for approval.

Sighing softly, Crystal said, “I guess.”

JoEllen ignored the lack of enthusiasm and sat between them. “It’s such a pleasure getting to know you, Dr. Chambers. I was happy to meet you at The Woodlands and again this morning when you helped me out with a prescription.”

“I hope to meet almost everyone in Lilac Lake,” said Emmett. “That’s one of the pleasures of working in a small town.”

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