Page 50 of Safe With Me

“It’s different from anywhere I’ve been, that’s for sure.”

“But it’s more than just a cute small town. There’s a strong sense of community here. Not to say that I didn’t love my neighbors and friends in Brooklyn, but big cities are different. You’re expected to function on your own, whereas here,” she said, jerking her chin to the packed restaurant around us. “Everyone rushes to help. Whether you want them to or not.”

“It is a nice little town.” I nodded. “Not that I’ve seen much of it other than to and from the office and my walks in the evenings when I get out of work.”

I didn’t know if I was going to continue those walks alone in the fall when it would be dark by the time I’d arrive home. But again, tonight was about baby steps. I would take my days one ata time and do my best not to assume what I would or wouldn’t be ready for in the future.

“I’m so sorry we couldn’t do this earlier. I’ve been struggling to keep a schedule at the bar. Thank God for Amber, who’s willing to take any shift, any time.”

“Do you have that trouble with the staff usually?” I asked Claudia.

“Not usually. I have college kids who work in the bar during the summers, and it takes a little bit of time to work out everybody’s schedule. Amber works most nights and Cece is my manager, but everyone else is like a game of Tetris, seeing where and when they fit the best.”

She reached over to squeeze my arm. “I wish I could have made time to take you out to dinner earlier, but I promise I’ll be more available for the rest of the summer.”

“I appreciate it, but no need to be sorry. I’ve been okay. Kathy and Terry have been very nice.”

“I told you,” she said, tossing the menu on the table. “Aren’t they adorable?”

“Yes, they really are. They’re always trying to feed me. Kathy was upset that I hadn’t unpacked for the first couple of weeks and asked Mike to hang pictures for me so I’d feel more at home.”

“Oh, that’s sweet,” Claudia said, shooting me an odd look as she leaned back in her chair.

“What was that for?” I asked, pursing my lips.

“What was what?” Claudia said, feigning innocence as she pressed her hand to her chest.

“That was a loadedoh. You look like there’s something you want to ask me.”

“I just meant that it’s sweet that you and Mike became friends. I saw you together the night of the festival, and I was glad to see you guys having a good time.”

“That reminds me. I still haven’t told you what happened later that night, after I saw you.”

“Oh,” Claudia said, her eyes growing wide as she scooted closer to the table.

“No, not that. Calm down. I never said why I left early. I’m guessing you know who Jared is.”

“I do.” She nodded, her lips pulling down. “Did he bother you?”

“I told him I wasn’t interested, and he wouldn’t take no for an answer. I freaked out and started screaming at him. Mike followed me home because I was so shaken up.” I shook my head, pressing my palms into my eyes. “Made an idiot of myself once again.”

Claudia’s smile faded as she leaned in.

“I’m sorry, honey. If you’re embarrassed, don’t be. Most women yell at him to stop bothering them, so there’s no need to dwell on it like I’m sure you’re doing.”

“I hated that I flipped out in front of Mike again, but I’m glad I did. I even told him about what happened with Ted. It felt good to have someone around here know what happened and why I came here, besides you.”

“I’m glad you told him. And I think you need to give yourself a break. What happened to you is going to take more than a minute to shake off.”

“But I can’t let little things I should be able to handle bother me so much. Keeping myself isolated is not going to do me any good, and that’s exactly what Ted wanted. I won’t let him win.”

“Yes!” Claudia said, slapping her hands against the table. “I am so glad to hear this. I’m proud of you.”

“Mike said the same thing this morning. It’s a little pathetic when people are proud of you for leaving the house by yourself after dark.” I smiled until her brows shot up to her hairline.

“This morning, huh?”

“It’s…not what you’re probably thinking. He stopped by before work to put together a side table. It’s a long story,” I said, darting my eyes everywhere but to Claudia’s.

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