Page 21 of Blessings in Disguise

“No, actually, I didn’t. I’m asking as your friend.”

She laughed. “As a matter of fact, I am seeing someone.”

His eyes twinkled. “How nice. Then your drifting off is forgiven.”

“Thanks, Jackson.”

An hour later, Gemma watched as Ryan walked into Magnolia’s for drinks. She sat in a corner table at the bar.

He wore a taupe blazer with a silky t-shirt and brown pants. She hoped he didn’t dress up for her. “Hey pretty lady.” He kissed her on the mouth.

She moved away as soon as she could. “We have to talk, Ryan.”

His gray eyes narrowed as he sat down across from her. “Good news never follows those words.” He signaled for a waiter. “I think I’m going to need a drink first.”

She didn’t deny it, and he didn’t ask anything more. Luckily, the place wasn’t busy, so they got their drinks in minutes.

He picked up his double bourbon and took a hefty gulp. “What is it, Gemma?”

“You’re right. You won’t like this. I’ve met somebody else…”

She explained how quickly things happened with Caleb and expressed her hopes that he wasn’t too hurt.

“Seriously? I’m shocked.”

“We’ve been casual about our relationship since we started going out. Maybe we’ve run our course.” She studied him. “I’m actually flummoxed by your strong reaction.”

He scraped back his chair and stood. “That makes this even worse. Fuck it, lady. I’m outta here.”

“Goodbye Ryan,” she said to his retreating back.

She left the bar and drove home. As she walked inside, her cell rang. She felt better when she saw the ID. Just what she needed. “Hello, Caleb.”

“Gemma. Do you think you could come over here?”

“Are you all right?”

“Physically I am. But something from the past happened. It would help to see you.”

“I can be at your place in fifteen minutes.”

She raced out to her car and drove to his house. The back door to his office was ajar. She went inside.

Caleb sat on the couch with some papers in his hands. She rushed over and dropped down next to him. “What happened?”

He looked really sad. But he didn’t say anything. He handed her the sheaf.

She scanned them. “Oh, no. Oh, Caleb.” She rubbed his back. “How much more can you take?”

He blew out a heavy breath. “I have to handle this. I can’t go back to that dark place. I almost couldn’t climb out.”

“Do you want me to call your counselor?”

“No.

“Maisy?”

“Don’t you want to stay with me?”

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