Page 117 of Forgot to Tell You Something

“Ah, that’s the connection. Wait, was? They’re awfully chummy to be exes. Lord knows I’d rather set myself on fire than speak to the former Mrs. Jessop.”

I chuckle at the visual, but I’ve met Dr. Jessop’s ex-wife, and I concur with his words. She’s a harpy. But it’s the first half of his statement that sticks in my craw.They are awfully chummy to be exes.

“There will be several positions opening up with this new training center.” Dr. Jessop sends me a pointed glance. “Right up your alley, Lu.”

“I know.” I don’t admit how desperately I’m coveting the coordinator position. I know I have the experience, but Charlotte is the gatekeeper, and I’m sure she isn’t keen to give me a key to her city.

“You get on well with Dr. Stevens. Hell, I thought you two were dating.”

It’s a play for information, one I’m ignoring. “He’s easy to get along with, Ken.”

Dr. Jessop smirks. The man knows I don’t give up my secrets. “I’m sure he’ll put in a good word for you.”

“I would never ask that of him.”

“You should, Lu. You’ve earned that position in spades. Time to collect on all the good works you’ve done.”

“You just want me out of the area so I can’t give you shit about your half-assed order sets,” I rib, winking in his direction.

“You’ve found me out,” he returns with a laugh.

My mind wanders as I gaze around the room. Should I mention the position to Owen? I hate the concept of being in anyone’s pocket, even if the pocket belongs to the man I love.

The band begins playing an old standard that my father used to sing, and I feel the tears backing up, but I blink them away. Not the time, not the place.

Several couples make their way to the floor, swaying to the gentle rhythm of the song. But it’s one couple that catches my attention. Charlotte and Owen. Together.

I can’t tear my gaze from them as they glide effortlessly around the dance floor. It’s obvious they’re comfortable together, instinctively sensing the other’s next step.

God, but they’re beautiful. They’re like professional ballroom dancers, and there’s no way the crowd misses their fluidity. Even Dr. Jessop sits riveted, rubbing his chin as his gaze remains locked on the pair.

The dance ends about a million minutes later, and the adoration aimed at the golden couple is clear. I can even feel it from my table in Siberia. When another one of my father’s favorite songs plays, I seek a hasty retreat.That’s enough torture for one hour.

I step onto an adjoining balcony, sucking in a lungful of sea air. A few stragglers smile in my direction, and I return the favor before focusing my gaze on the inky blackness of the ocean beyond.

I grip the railing, fighting a futile battle against the tears. I need to get it together. I’m stronger than this, but the events of the last couple of weeks have brought me to my knees.

I shiver, even though it’s hardly cold, and jerk when a jacket slips over my shoulders. Without asking permission, Owen wraps his arms around me, his lips pressing against my hair. “There you are. I’ve been waiting for you.”

“I didn’t want to intrude. I know you and Charlotte are busy.”

“I’m sorry about that. The dance wasn’t my idea.”

I sniffle and shake my head. “You two move so naturally together.”

“It’s called dance lessons. There’s nothing natural about Charlotte and me.”

“Tell that to your adoring public.”

“I only care about one person adoring me, and I’m failing miserably there.” His hands slide down, pressing against my abdomen. “I thought you decided not to come.”

I turn in his arms, wanting to move his hands from my stomach. Another coincidence, I’m sure. You know how it is—when you look for signs, they’re everywhere.Everywhere. “I’ve been here since the beginning.”

“Why didn’t you come to me?”

“I didn’t want to interrupt. You have far more important people than me to speak with tonight.”

“You’re my most important person. I’ve been looking for you for the last hour. I don’t know how I missed you.”

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