Page 42 of The Only Road Back
Linda ignores him, her eyes sparkling. I glance at Jack, who’s already rubbing his temples as if he knows what’s coming. The tension dissolves into laughter.
“Well,” I begin, “I kind of crashed into his world—literally. My car broke down, and Jack came and got me.”
Linda gasps, delighted. “A damsel in distress! Jack, did you sweep in like a hero?”
Jack tries for nonchalance. “Something like that.”
Robert chuckles. “He can’t resist lending a hand.”
Jack lifts a shoulder. “It worked, didn’t it?”
Linda clutches her heart. “A love story born from a broken-down car. It’s practically fate.”
I laugh. “I wouldn’t call it that.”
Linda leans closer, whispering, “Did he woo you properly, Beth? I need to know I raised my son right.”
Jack shakes his head. Robert hides a smirk behind his cup.
I turn toward Jack with mock seriousness. “He did okay.”
Jack’s eyebrows shoot up. “Okay?”
I grin. “You fixed my car, fed me pizza, and let me crash at your place. That’s something.”
Linda gasps dramatically. “Jack Connor, you let a beautiful woman stay at your house and didn’t propose on the spot?”
Jack groans. “Ma, not this again.”
Linda pats my hand. “You’ll have to excuse him. He’s a little slow.”
I can’t help it. I giggle. Jack slumps in his chair. “I have no control over this, do I?”
“None,” Robert says, amusement crinkling his eyes.
Linda squeezes my hand, her voice softening. “Really, sweetheart, we’re so glad you’re here. You’re just perfect for Jack.”
My heart skips. I look at Jack. He doesn’t look away, just holds my gaze, steady and sure.
Suddenly, it hits me. This isn’t just a visit or a passing phase. This is real. I’m not running anymore.
Jack must see something in my face. He slips his hand beneath the table, finding mine and squeezing gently.
I squeeze back, anchoring myself with the certainty of his touch.
Linda catches the moment and smiles but lets the conversation drift to lighter topics. I let myself relax, laughter bubbling up as stories and memories are shared. For the first time in years, I feel a sense of belonging.
***
Later, after the hugs and promises to visit soon, Jack and I drive home in easy silence. My thoughts spiral. Everything feels out of control—fast and bright and terrifying.
As soon as we’re through the door, I curl up on the couch, tucking my knees to my chest. Jack settles in beside me, pulling me gently into his side.
He brushes a kiss onto my temple. “You’re quiet.”
I swallow. “Everything’s moving so fast.”
Jack waits, tracing circles on my arm.
