Page 30 of Love Under Construction

Admittedly, I listen as he gives his speech including his praise for my vision. When he’s finished, he turns to me and asks if I’ll say a few words. I was prepared for this. Now? I’m not so sure.

My therapist’s voice rings out in my head.“Deep breath. Stay in the moment. There’s no immediate danger.”

I’ve put a lot of work into overcoming my anxiety. It’s not been easy, and there are still days, or moments, that I struggle with. Yet, I’m still here. And I am thriving.

With the same fake smile on my face, I step up and begin to speak. “Thank you all for coming out to show your support today. I am so grateful for the opportunity to bring something like The Mason Center to the community. I believe in our mission and the people we serve.” Looking over my shoulder, I smile at the Eastmans. “And to Leo Eastman for being a driving force in this project. For taking a risk and helping me bring this to life. He sought out the perfect team of architects and builders to get the job done and done right.”

The crowd applauds as I step back. Leo takes over once more to direct everyone to the main entrance. All of the board members gather round, and the volunteers hand Leo and myself each a pair of gigantic scissors. Camera’s flash as the crowd counts down and we cut the ribbon.

The staff inside the building push open the doors, and we move back out of the way, letting people in. Gwen hugs her husband and then rushes over to hug me.

“I am so proud of you, girl. This place is just amazing. I knew there was something special about you.”

“Thanks, Gwen. That means a lot.”

Channeling my inner social butterfly, that doesn’t exist, I float around The Mason Center and make small talk. Taking time to greet familiar faces and thank everyone for coming. I’ve almost made my way back to the reception area when I spot Harley.

He’s not happy to be here, I can tell. I only hope that he’s not somehow bringing bad news about Jameson.

“Harley. Thank you for stopping by.”

He grunts. “Somewhere we can talk for five seconds?”

“Sure,” I nod and direct him to my office. “Is everything okay?” I ask once we’re out of the public eye.

“Far as I know. Jameson asked me to stop by and deliver this,” he holds out an envelope. “You know I’m not exactly your biggest fan when it comes to my buddy, but when a friend asks for a favor, I do what I can.”

I could have done without his dig. Well deserved or not. I don’t tell him that though. “I understand. And I don’t blame you for hating me.”

“Never said I hate you,” Harley tells me, “I said, I don’t like what you’ve done to my friend. Big difference. I want to see him happy. Not being roped around by a woman who can’t make up her mind.”

I can’t control others, but I can control how I react,I tell myself. I’m not about to let Harley’s sour attitude ruin today. I’m already carrying my own emotions; I won’t allow him to make it worse.

“Got it loud and clear. I don’t know what Jameson has or hasn’t told you, and at this point, I don’t care. It’s nice that he’s got people looking out for him. But your judgment of me is way off base.”

“That’s what they all say.” He grumbles. “Good job on this place and good luck to you. I’ll see you around the building.”

There’s nothing more to say. Harley walks off and leaves me with the envelope in my hand.

Pulling out my desk chair, I take a seat and reach for the letter opener.

Liv,

Congrats on opening day.

It was an honor to work on The Mason Center and see something you envisioned, come to life.

I wish I could be there in person, but I thought it was best that I stay away. I hope Harley didn’t act like a jerk when he delivered this for me.

Good luck with everything. I know you’ll do great.

Maybe we’ll cross paths back home one day. Take care.

~ J.

I dab my eyes and do a double take when another slip of paper falls on my desk.

Lying before me is a donation receipt for several thousand dollars from Jameson’s company to The Mason Center. I may not have been involved in the funding of this place but I know damn well this must easily be every penny of Jameson’s salary for the past months, and then some.

---