Page 18 of Somebody to Love

He rested a hand on her shoulder as she prepared to rise. Her skin was warm beneath his fingers.

“I’m pleased you’re happy, Bailey. Really,” he added. “But if you want anything, you need only ask.”

She shook her head and turned back to the piano. “I don’t need anything. But thank you for offering.”

Unlike him, Bailey had always had impeccable manners.

“You’d be saving me, working here. Vinnie, my regular guy who was playing before you, has a stomach upset, and the other performer we had has a sick family member and left town for a while.”

“I’m not sure how long I’ll be here, Joe. But while I am I can come in when you need me.”

“Give me your phone number, and I’ll confirm what days when I speak with Vinnie.”

“I don’t have a phone.”

“Pardon?”

“I don’t have a phone.”

Joe looked at her to see if she was serious. “You’re messing with me?” He could honesty say he didn’t know anyone who didn’t have a cell phone.

“I don’t want one.” Her face was now closed completely, no emotion on show.

“But what about when you’re driving and get a flat? What about contacting people?”

“I use a pay phone.” She said the words slowly.

“I didn’t realize they were on every road these days.”

She didn’t smile.

“Fine, I’ll get hold of Maggie.” He didn’t push it anymore.Who doesn’t have a cell phone?

“No, I’ll come in and see you tomorrow. You can let me know then when you need me.”

He couldn’t stop his hand lifting, or the finger he ran down her cheek. She pulled back, and looked down at Buzz, who in turn was gazing at her as if she was the last piece of steak in Ryker Falls.

“I-I saw Luke. He’s a firefighter, which must please you.”

“Yes, he’s happy.” Joe rolled with the change of subject. “And Jack is doing well also.”

“Maggie told me you own some land. I’m so pleased you’re all settled here.”

This was genuine, Joe thought. She really was happy that he and his siblings hadn’t ended up on the wrong side of the law, or worse.

What was clear to him, however, was that Maggie hadn’t told her which piece of land he’d purchased, because her reaction would be way different. Joe should tell her, she’d given him the perfect opening, but something held the words in his head. Instead he said, “And you, Bailey. Have you been happy?”

She produced another fake smile. “Of course.”

“How’s your family?”

“Good.”

She was closed up tight again. She didn’t want to discuss anything personal, which normally suited him. But not now. Not with her.

“I should start playing again. I’ll play two more sets.”

She turned back to the piano, and Joe watched her stretch her fingers, then rotate her wrists. She turned them over, and he caught a flash of a red scar. He grabbed her hand and pulled up the sleeve.

---