Page 367 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 1

A sob broke free from her throat, and she crumpled to her knees. Aaron kneeled beside her, wrapping his arms around her. When her tears had slowed enough for her to walk, he led her up to her bedroom and held her until sweet sleep captured her once more and she found peace.

Once again, Aaron closely watched Anna during their class. She was quieter than usual, but seemed more focused than before Alex’s departure. Maybe keeping busy would help her cope with missing Alex. The other dancers were particularly kind to her; they genuinely liked Anna for her sweet and kind nature.

Travis, Jenna, and Aaron took Anna out to lunch. Although she was quiet, she didn’t seem overly upset. Aaron admired her composure.

Anna ate lunch for the sake of the baby. She wasn’t hungry, but the baby needed food. So she ate.

She dreaded the idea of going home after rehearsal to an empty house. Alex will be home in a week. I can handle this.

Anna had accepted Aaron’s offer to stay with her while Alex was away. Her recent dreams had been more like nightmares. Dreadful visions of terrible things happening to Alex, and she was frightened to be alone. What terrified her even more was that her dreams sometimes came true. The idea of something happening to Alex left her in a state of dread. What would she do if her worst fears materialized?

She shook her head at herself. It didn’t do any good for her to worry about the what-ifs. Alex would come home to her. He promised. She rested in his promise.

Her phone ringing interrupted her thoughts. “Hello, Devin.”

“Hello, Baby. How are you doing?”

“Okay.”

“Did Alex leave?”

“Yes.”

“I’m sorry he was called away. I can imagine how difficult it is for you.”

“Thank you.” She swallowed hard.

“I am having dinner with the Elders at the hotel tomorrow night. I need you there. We’ll drive up to Santa Rosa Friday morning.”

“Okay.” Anna took a deep breath. He’d been treating her well since she’d returned from Germany. The Gathering wouldn’t be too bad. At least it would be something to distract her from Alex’s absence. “What time do you want me at the hotel?”

“Five.”

She would have to leave rehearsal early. “May I get ready at the hotel after rehearsal?”

“Of course. I’ll be at the hotel around two. Tommy and Tyler are in town as well.”

A smile tugged at her lips. The idea of seeing Tommy again was a welcome thought and brightened her outlook on the upcoming weekend. “Alright, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Chapter 170

Anna rode the bus to the hotel after leaving rehearsal early on Thursday afternoon. Aaron had picked her up that morning to take her to class. The bus ride from the studio to the hotel was a short one and kept her from having to leave her car in the garage over the weekend. She absentmindedly fiddled with her wedding rings as she waited for her stop, missing Alex terribly.

When the bus stopped in front of the hotel, Anna wheeled her small suitcase into the lobby. She headed for the elevators, knowing the room number from Devin’s text. Anna knocked on the door, and Devin answered, welcoming her with a deep kiss.

Inside, Tom Pendleton sat on the couch, sipping a drink from a glass tumbler. He smiled and stood. “Hello, Anna. How are you?”

“Hi Tom. I’m good. How are you?”

“Much better now that you’re here. And Tommy will be happy to see you.”

Anna smiled. “I’m looking forward to seeing him as well.” Tommy was always nice to her, well except... She scolded herself. That was only the one time. Although, it could happen again. Tyler had changed... would Tommy?

Devin raised his eyebrows. “Why don’t you shower and get ready for dinner?”

“Yes, Devin.” She nodded to Tom. “Excuse me.”

Devin followed Anna into the bedroom. “Do you have something sexy to wear tonight?”

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