Page 50 of Keep Me Safe

“So, what are your plans today?” Jared asks.

“Nothing really, just work.”

“Good, because you’re busy tonight.”

Oh god, what is he planning? I don’t think I’m in the mood for any kind of massive party, and I was looking forward to havingsome time to relax tonight, just me and my book.

“Please tell me it’s nothing crazy,” I tell him.

“It’s nothing crazy.”

Somehow, I don’t believe him.

My shift goes by without any significant issues. It’s super slow, and I can’t help but wish that I would have taken the day off.

By the time 7:30 rolls around, I’m ready to leave, but I’m not excited to see what is waiting for me at home. Every year, I tell Jared that I don’t want a big party, and every year, he outdoes himself. He has good intentions, so I can’t bring myself to stop him. Before leaving, I change into one of my favorite dresses that I brought with me, knowing I would likely come home to a full house.

The drive back takes longer than usual, probably because I’m going five under. I use the time to mentally and emotionally prepare for the night.

Maybe Jared listened and planned a movie night? That thought disintegrates as I pull up to the house. Cars line the driveway, spilling onto the street. Not very sneaky of them. At least they left my spot open. I park behind Jared and make a mental note that Noah’s truck is parked up by the house. He’s here somewhere, and for some reason, that eases my nerves.

Stepping up to the front door, I take a deep breath and turn the handle. Swinging it open, I barely have time to step into the room before Jared pops out in front of me.

“Surprise!”

I take in the crowd in the room. Most of the people are acquaintances at best. Thankfully, I don’t see Jake.

Right then, I see Maddie emerge from the sea of people, a smile growing on my lips. We’ve been able to hang out a coupleof times since my first pottery class, and we’re practically best friends now. It’s refreshing having a girl best friend. I love Jared, but there are some things that he doesn’t get.

“Happy birthday, girly!”

“Thank you,” I say with a laugh as she pulls me into a hug.

“Come on, let’s go get you something to drink.”

She leads me into the kitchen. Stopping at the counter, I scan the room for Noah before I catch myself. Why would he be hanging out with teenagers? He’s probably upstairs. Why am I even looking for him to begin with?

“What does the birthday girl want?” she asks me, breaking me out of my thoughts.

“Surprise me, but make it strong. I’m going to need it to handle this much socializing,” I chuckle.

She begins pouring what seems like too many different liquids into the cup.

“Don’t look! It’s supposed to be a surprise!”

I avert my gaze, instead favoring the slider. The sun is getting ready to set over the water, and it makes me want to go sit on the dock. I feel eyes on me, and I know before I see him that he’s there, out on the porch.

“Damn, who is that?” Maddie asks, handing me my drink.

“That’s Noah. He’s Jared’s dad.”

“I know I’m not into men, but that is onefineman.”

I laugh at that, turning back to her.

“I’ll be right back.”

Her expression turns suggestive, but she nods, waving me away.

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