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I didn’t want this life.
Looking around the room, I realized I didn’t even like these people. As a matter-of-fact, I detested them and everything they stood for. I wanted that feeling I’d had six months ago. I craved it. I wanted to make my own path, but I had no idea where to start. I had a college education, but my degree in English was basically useless. I only had it as a symbol of my educational opportunities. I never did anything with it. I was living in a house paid for by my trust fund and doing volunteer work to fill my time.
I had no clue how to make my own path.
But I knew someone who did.
And I owed him money I’d never repaid.
Smiling, I set my glass on the bar and moved toward the door, already planning my trip to New Hope.
2
JANE
“I can’t believeyou’re doing this.”
I smiled at Rachel and took a drink of water. “I know.”
“Are you nervous?”
“I’m terrified.” I set the glass down on the island between us. “But in an excited way. Does that make sense?”
“No.” She laughed. “But I’m excited for you. And a little envious.”
“Envious? Why?”
She shrugged. “I don’t know. I guess I’ve always wondered what’s outside this world we’ve grown up in. It always seems like we’re missing something, but that sounds ridiculous, considering all the luxuries and advantages we’ve had growing up.”
“I know.”
“Your mom may never forgive you for this. You know that, right?”
“I’m hoping she won’t find out.” Rachel’s eyes widened, and I continued. “At least not until I figure out what my plan is.”
“Your mom knows everything that’s happening.”
“That’s true,” I agreed. “In this town. But she doesn’t know anyone in New Hope.”
“I guess you’re right.” She nodded. “What about Richard?”
“Who?”
She laughed and shook her head. “The mayor’s wife’s brother? Rumor is you have a date with him.”
“There’s a rumor about that already?” I asked in surprise, considering that only happened last night.
“I overheard my mom talking about it.” She rolled her eyes. “She said he’ll be so good for you.”
I narrowed my eyes. “What else did she say?”
Rachel’s eyes dropped, and I knew why. The whole family saw me as an outcast, the one person who didn’t fit. They’d even tried to force a wedge between Rachel and me because they felt I’d drag her down with me, and they had high hopes for Rachel. I still had no idea how we connected and became friends when we were young because she was everything I wasn’t. Beautiful, talented, and a catch, according to my mom. But over the years, I saw something in her that no one else did, which was her longing to be more. I guess we bonded over that.
“She said you’d be lucky to have him, considering…”
She trailed off, and I snorted. “Considering I’m not exactly a catch.”
“I’m sorry.” She didn’t deny it, and I wouldn't expect her to.
