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“That stubborn streak of yours is impressive. It’s what’s gotten you through life to this point, but it’s also stifling your chance at happiness.”
I heave out a sigh. “Can we talk about something else, please?”
Brando mutters an annoyed curse but calms when Vera puts a hand on his arm. “I know you feel like we’re attacking you, Liv. Everyone knows Luke’s part in this. We’re not saying what he did wasn’t fucked up. You just don’t know the full story.”
I turn to face her and frown. “Let me guess, more information everybody knows but me?”
“Luke is trying to fix that, Liv. If you don’t let him, then you’re being a hypocrite,” Dylan says. When I look out the windshield, he continues.
“When Luke asks to speak to you alone, please do us a favor and listen. That’s all we’re hoping for. Just hear him out, and then we can all move on,” he says.
I turn to Vera and Brando, who both nod at me. "Fine," I say and they relax. If it will get them to stop harping on me, then I'll listen to Luke.
We park in the town square and Garrett gives them a walking tour. I notice he avoids the bakery, but I don’t comment. Tina comes out of the coffee shop when we pass.
Garrett tenses but greets her with a smile and a peck on the lips. “Why didn’t you tell me you were coming to town?” she asks, glancing at the group.
“We’ve got visitors from back home. They arrived yesterday and we’re showing them around,” he says.
She turns and waves. “Hi y’all. I’m Tina, Garrett’s girlfriend,” she says and Garrett winces behind her. Vera clears her throat and pushes Dylan aside to greet her first. She always faced her problems head on.
“Hi, I’m Vera, Garrett’s ex-girlfriend,” she says with fake enthusiasm, and Jackson coughs to cover up a laugh.
She faces them head on, but not always with grace. Tina plasters on a fake smile. “Nice to meet you.”
Tension flares, but it’s deflated when Luke extends his hand. “Nice to meet you, Tina. I’m Luke.”
Tina’s eyebrows raise and she looks at me while they shake. “Well, it’s quite the reunion you two are having,” she says, and I glare at Garrett. He shouldn’t be talking to her about me. He’s too busy glancing at Vera to notice me, though. The rest of the group introduces themselves and Garrett pulls her aside.
“Let’s grab a coffee,” I offer, and the guys and Vera follow me inside the café.
We order and take a seat by the window. Garrett and Tina are still talking, but she points towards us while he puts his hands up, attempting to calm her down.
“Looks like you’ve made a pleasant life for yourself here,” Mark says from next to me. Luke, Dylan, and Brando are sitting with Vera at the next table, having their own conversation. Jordy and Skye wait at the counter with Jackson for our orders.
“Yea. I like it here.”
“Were you ever planning on coming home?”
“Someday.”
He sighs. “I know it’s shitty we just showed up like this. But don’t hold it against Luke. We just want you guys to be happy. But you’ve got to decide what that means. Don’t let us meddling assholes get in the way. Tell us to fuck off and we’ll listen.”
“I’m just confused. I’m uh… sort of seeing someone and Luke showing up blindsided me.”
“Meaning you still have feelings for Luke?”
I cross my arms.
“You’ve been through a lot, Liv. More than anyone should have to. You’re going to figure it out. Be honest with yourself about your feelings for this new guy. If he’s who you want, tell Luke so he can move on.”
“I missed you, Mark. Garrett is a terrible voice of reason,” I say.
His booming laugh makes my heart happy, and I smile. “I missed you too, Sparrow.”
Tina storms off and Garrett watches her go.
“Give me a second?” I say and the guys nod. I walk outside and Garrett turns to me.
