Page 76 of Stay for Me
I really hope it’s not Hollywood. If so, I’m in deep shit and my entire existence here is about to be screwed. Not that I’m not walking a tightrope daily as it is. It’s been a few weeks, and thankfully, I haven’t been outed, but who knows how much longer that’s going to last.
“We’re stationed at Lemoore. You see, Luke and my husband, Reggie, were best friends and basically spent their entire careers alongside one another.”
There’s a slight bit of relief. “I see.”
Cybil sits on the couch and smiles. “So, tell me, how hard is it being out here instead of Hollywood?”
“It’s an adjustment.”
She laughs. “I’d say. I suggested we order food, and Brenna just laughed at me because there was nothing that delivers.”
That part definitely sucks. “It’s nice for privacy.”
“Yes, lots of woods and such. Probably a stream or a creek near too?”
The hair on the back of my neck prickles. She knows. Of course, she knows, she’s her best friend.
“Yes, there are lots of woods and a creek.”
Cybil nods. “Do you guys have lots of fishing?”
I laugh once. “Yes, fishing is something a lot of people around here do.”
“I bet they often catch a really beautiful fish then. I hope you aren’t the kind that tosses the good ones back.”
One would have to be stupid not to hear the meaning in her words. “I think there’s often an understanding between the fish and the fisherman, don’t you?”
Cybil’s lips turn up. “You’re right, and Daddy always said that there’s no business in the business of others.”
What? I look at her, trying to take apart the statement so I can respond, but thankfully, Brenna rushes in. She’s wearing a pair of yoga pants and tank top. Half her hair wet and piled up on the top of her head, and the other part down and dry. “Who is it? Oh. Jacob.” She pulls the clip free, letting it all fall down. “I was . . . I wasn’t expecting you.”
I get to my feet and smile. “Sorry to barge in.”
“No, it’s totally fine. I was getting ready and didn’t know it was you.” She glares at Cybil.
“I was driving by and wanted to ask if I could take Sebastian out, but I see you guys are busy.”
Brenna tucks her hair behind her ear. “That’s sweet, but Cybil leaves tomorrow, so we were going to that new drive-in a few towns over to see a movie. Maybe you guys can do something later this week?”
“Sure. That would be great.”
Cybil’s eyes move back and forth between us, and then she clears her throat. “Bren, honey, I’m really thinking this jet lag is too much.”
“What?”
“Yeah, you know, I’m tired as all hell, and I don’t know that I can handle a movie. I’d much rather just stay home with the kids.”
Brenna blinks a few times. “Of course. It’s fine if we stay here.”
She walks toward me and places her hand on my arm. “Jacob, would you mind taking Brenna to see the movie? She was so excited about it, and it would break my heart if she missed out. The kids didn’t really want to see it, but I was using the guilt trip that I’m infamous for.” She laughs. “Brenna, you don’t mind if I get a little quality time with my niece and nephew alone, do you?”
Her jaw is clenched so tight I can hear her teeth grinding, but there is a smile on her lips. “Cybil . . .”
She clasps her hands in front of her. “Oh, sugar, you’re the best. You can go with Jacob, see that movie you were talking about, and the kids and I will hang here and talk about you.” I want to say something, but before I can, Cybil grabs a large basket and shoves it in my arms. “Here’s all the food, and the tickets cost me a fortune so you have to go and not waste this chance. You don’t mind taking Brenna, do you?”
“No, but I’m not sure—”
“Well, I am.” Cybil walks over to Brenna, pushing her toward me. “You guys go. The kids and I will be just fine.”
