Page 92 of Nashville Cowboy
“I’ve known he was married and divorced from her for quite a while. He says they don’t even talk anymore.”
Just then the door to the clinic opened and in waltzed Winona. For a country music star, she dressed more like a runway model. Eve would bet her clothes were designer and they fit her like they were tailored to her body. She had a little silver purse and matching ankle boots. Eve glanced down at her boots, Wranglers, and flannel shirt over a Henley top.
“Winona James!” Annabeth stood and went around the desk to shake Winona’s hand. “Such a pleasure. I’m a big fan of yours. “
“Oh, honey, aren’t you sweet? Everyone in town is so lovely and I have to admit, the men! They’re so courteous and attentive. Every one of them a looker. I might just have to move here.”
Eve swallowed hard.
“Hey, there, Eve,” Winona said. “You doing okay? I’m so sorry we didn’t get a chance to chat the other day.”
“That’s okay.”
At Annabeth’s curious look, Winona said, “I must have forgotten my southern manners. I dropped by unannounced and just about got kicked out on my rear. That will show me to call first.”
“Can we help you with anything?” Annabeth asked, falling into professional mode.
“I’d actually like to talk to Eve, if that’s okay.” She turned to Eve with the fakest smile she’d ever seen.
“Actually, I’m at work so I don’t have time to—” Eve began.
“Go ahead, Eve,” Annabeth urged. “It’s a slow day, after all. If we get a call, I’ll be sure to come get you.”
“I guess I’ll eat my burger later.” Eve threw a longing look at her yummy lunch.
“Or I’ll treat you to something,” Winona said.
“No, but thanks.” Eve didn’t want to spend too much time with Winona.
Maybe that was unfair, but in addition to the fact that Winona seemed to still care about Jackson, she was a trigger for Eve. Just looking at Winona made Eve’s palms sweat, the normal precursor to an anxiety attack. But not this time. She’d keep her cool using the techniques she’d learned long ago. Deep breaths. Counting. Going over routines.
They walked just outside the office and Eve shut the door. With her back to the door, as if ready to take flight back inside, she turned to Winona. “What can I do for you?”
“I want to apologize for shocking you the way I did.” She sighed. “But Jackson and I were always so close, I thought he might welcome me.”
“I’m sorry if that upset you.”
“It didn’t upset me. He didn’t mean it. I know Jackson and he’s kind. I nursed him through a terrible heartache, and we grew so close during that time, as only two people who are both hurting can do. I guess that’s how we fell in love. Our marriage was short lived, but I blame that mostly on our horrendous tour schedules. We were apart more than together. I honestly think if not for that, we’d still be married.”
Eve felt an uncomfortable, sickening feeling spread to her churning gut. She’d seen this kind of thing before. Women fighting over a man, trying to intimidate each other in passive aggressive moves. Winona didn’t know this sort of thing just didn’t happen in Stone Ridge.
“I don’t know what to say.” Eve crossed her arms.
You’re lying.
I don’t believe you.
I believe Jackson.
I love Jackson. He loves me.
“I’m sure you and Jackson don’t have any secrets, so he’s probably talked to you about me.”
“Yes, he has.” Eve threw her a significant look. She’d heard the story and it was nothing like the one Winona had just told.
Still, a tiny seed of doubt planted itself. If Jackson had been devastated by his and Winona’s breakup, maybe he wouldn’t have been honest about it with Eve. To save his ego. And surely, Eve considered, it was fine that he’d loved Winona at one time. Eve thought she’d loved Bobby. Everybody made mistakes.
“Did he tell you I asked him to father my baby?”
