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JOSIE
The smell of coffee makes my eyes flutter open.
Harley waves the takeaway cup under my nose for a moment longer before standing, a grin stretched over his face.
“Morning sunshine, I bought us some coffees.” He places them on the bedside table and retrieves two brown paper bags. “And some muffins.”
“Yum!”
“I thought we could go for a drive and sit somewhere,” he says.
I like that he hasn’t suggested to do something in town. We both don’t need the scrutiny. Especially since I haven’t returned any of Nick’s calls or texts.
Throwing a dress over my head and sliding into my sandals, I settle behind the wheel of my car, while Harley folds himself into the passenger seat.
We drive out of town, up into one of the sandy hills. I park close to the edge and wind the windows down, letting the warm air spill inside the car. I take a sip of my coffee and Harley hands the bag to me.
“Thanks for breakfast.” I smile.
“No problem.” He takes a sip. “I have to get going soon. Working today, and then tonight.”
“Oh,” I say.
Today is one of my days off. I’ve already divided my day into organising my weekly grocery shop, going over my study notes, and to check if next week’s lecture has been recorded. I’m also going to buy myself a canvas and paint–something I haven’t done for many years. It used to be a favourite pastime of mine and I’m looking forward to getting back into it.
“I like coming up here,” Harley says. “It’s peaceful.”
I make a sound of agreement as I stare out at the vast blue sky and the red dirt. For such a plain view, it really is pretty. We grow quiet for a moment as we eat. It’s so quiet, I think I can hear the place breathe. A quiet whoosh in and out, wafting through the windows, blowing my hair across my face.
“We should get out of here,” Harley says. “Leave this town and never look back.”
This is happening quickly, but perhaps, not quickly at all. This was what we should have done all those years ago.
I chew my food quietly for a moment, pondering his suggestion. Leaving is always on the cards for me, I truly do hate it here. Although the last two days have been a lot more bearable. But he is the reason for that.
I need more than this place. Adventure. The thrill. Excitement. But also, I want someone to do all that with.
“You’re either the reason I’ll stay, or the reason I’ll go,” I tell him truthfully.
“Could very well be the same for me, you know,” he says quietly. “Once I’ve done my apprenticeship, there isn’t anything holding me here.” His icy eyes turn their attention to me. “Other than you.”
I try to imagine my life with Harley. Letting go, being happy. Is that what has been missing all this time? Him?
A sigh fills the car and I side-eye him.
“I have to get going.”
I fold the bag and tuck it into my cup holder. Harley inches the volume of the radio up as we drive back to town. When I idle in front of his house, he leans over and kisses me. I forget that we’re in town, in front of people. I forget it all and kiss him back. It’s not until I’m pulling from the curb that I see her walking down the street, shopping bags in her hands.
Jess.
She saw the whole thing.
* * *
Panic swells in my throat, making it hard to breathe. I’m rigid in my seat as I drive past her, not sparing her a glance. My hands shake as I change gears.
She saw. She saw. She saw.
