Page 77 of Hopeless
“Thanks for dinner.” The words filter back to me as she turns to slide herself out of the booth. Another delicate, feminine summer dress, this time in blue, trails behind her on the leather bench.
I swallow hard and follow her, muttering under my breath, “You’re going to be the death of me.”
With a stiff back, she twists the engagement ring on her finger while people stare. She’s uncomfortable. It’s written all over her body, which is why my arm is back around her in no time.
I hug her against my side as we walk through the restaurant. “Do it, sugar. Put your hand in my back pocket. You know you want to,” I murmur before pressing a soft kiss to her hair.
Someone gasps, followed by a trail of harsh whispers.
He’s been through a lot.
War changes people.
I’m sure it’s just a phase.
It makes me furious. It makes me want to lay Bailey in the middle of their table and kiss her senseless just to prove a fucking point.
But that would be impulsive.
So I don’t.
I kiss her hair again, and though I know she must have heard their cruel sentiments … she slides her hand into my back pocket, and we push out into the sunny summer evening.
The sounds of the fair filter down from the end of Rosewood Street. Buzzers buzzing, bells ringing, children screaming. The air smells like popcorn and cinnamon mini donuts. We follow that tantalizing scent down the sidewalk.
My arm slung over her shoulder, her hand in my pocket.
And all the way to the fair, neither of us draws away.
22
Beau
Harvey:Haven’t seen you lately.
Beau:Haven’t seen you lately either.
Harvey:Been busy.
Beau:Yeah? With who?
Harvey:You know.
Beau:No, I don’t. You haven’t told me a single thing.
Harvey:Rich coming from you.
Beau:So, anything you want to tell me, old man? About you? Your life? Any news to share?
Harvey:Nope. Not a thing. Mind your business.
Beau:Chicken.
Iswing the oversized hammer over my shoulder one final time, bringing it down with every bit of power I can muster.
I channel every ounce of frustration that bubbles inside of me—that constant feeling of this life not being enough. Of never being satisfied.
I’m realizing I am deeply unsettled and constantly peeking around every corner for that little bit extra. That onethingthat will give me some sense of peace.
