Page 15 of Right Place, Right Time (Second Chances)
“So you’re living in San Jose?” she takes a sip of her organic iced tea. This place is unlike any place I’ve ever been.
“Just outside. Near Santa Clara.” I hope she doesn’t ask to see my place because I willneverbring here there. Someone as beautiful and innocent as Kate does not belong in my neighborhood.
“Where are you working?”
“A garage. A motorcycle repair shop.”
“Do you like it?” she asks, tilting her head to the side. I smile, pleased at her genuine interest in my happiness. Aside from my brother, Mac, and my best friend, Sean, there’s no one else who cares about me—or my happiness.
“It’s really great,” I tell her after swallowing the last bite of my burger. “I know a lot about car mechanics, but not a lot about motorcycles. I learned a little bit on my way out here, though. And the guy who owns the shop—Leroy—he’s been teaching me a lot, too.”
She smiles, and her eyes sparkle. “That’s really awesome. I’m so happy for you, Jay.”
“Thanks,” I say quietly as I choke down another swallow of the organic root beer Kate thought I’d like. I don’t have the heart to tell her it tastes like shit.
“So whatreallybrought you to California?”
I sigh and push away my now empty plate. I can’t exactly tell her it washerthat brought me here. Can I? I’m sure she knows it, though, she’s not stupid. Plus, I already told her I’d read her letters and had to make sure she was okay. Why else would I pick up and move to the other side of the country? I don’t know anyone else here. I don’twantto tell her, but I can’t lie to her either. Not when she’s been so incredibly honest with me over the years.
I finally look up and meet her chocolate eyes. This is it. This isthemoment.
“You.”
