Page 129 of Debts and Desires
“So that you could have him?”
“No. Because I’m pretty sure I know his intentions. But it wasn’t my place, and I know you’ll learn, eventually.”
“Cryptic.”
“Yeah, well.” She shrugged and then turned to her computer. “I know it doesn’t really matter, but us girls have to stick together. I went about it wrong, but it was the only way I could think of.”
“You could’ve tried just talking?” I offered, crossing my arms.
“I’ll try that next time,” she laughed. There was a brief pause before she cleared her throat and said, “I really am sorry, Emmy. Part of it was tryin’ to help, but my jealousy and insecurities got in the way and the alcohol made it worse. It’s not an excuse, but I’ve been havin’ a tough time at home with—I’m tryin’ to sort shit out on my end and that isn’t a reason to be a bitch. You’re gorgeous, have the voice of an angel, and are the sweetest, bubbliest thing. I’m tryin’ to be better.” Her voice got quieter. “I’m sobered up now and plan to stay that way. I’d like to start over, if you wanted. But it’s okay if not.”
I thought for a moment. On one hand, it could be a petty trick. On the other, I could gain a wonderful friend.
“Sure. I’m Emogen Brighton, but I go by Emmy,” I said, holding out my hand. Cassie smiled, extending her own.
“I’m Cassidy. You can call me that or any variation.”
“Nice toofficiallymeet you.”
“You as well.” I nodded and let go of her hand.
“So, you’re Tyler’s sister?” She seemed to cringe.
“Stepsister, yes.”
“Was it your dad that owned Pete’s?” She nodded.
“Since before I existed,” she laughed. “I always joked and said the bar was his firstborn. It also doubled as a nanny. Spent most of my childhood there.”
“And Ty, too?” Another cringe.
“Yes. Well,kinda. When his mom, Terri, married Dad, Tyler came, too. They got married when I was nine, Ty was eleven. We were always there helpin’ Dad and Terri. Then Terri got into that accident when I was fifteen. And Dad got sick a year later and…” she seemed to snap out of whatever memory filled trance she was in. “Sorry.”
“That’s okay,” I offered. “Sounds like you had a good family life.”
“I did.” She took in a ragged breath before giving me a smile. I knew it wasn’t a real smile, but I also knew it wasn’t in any illness toward me. It was more tired, sad, likely from her memories she just went through. And maybe something else? Her spirit seemed broken, hurt.
“Back to, uh, this,” she nodded to the kiosk. “If I try to push another order through, I know it’s gonna get denied. They usually do, which is unfair, I think. Otherwise I’d have mine for the year,” she let out a soft chuckle. “I wish I could help more,” she said. And deep down, I knew she was sincere.
“Thanks.” I paused. “And thanks for… you know, doing all that,” I tilted my head to the kiosk. “I know you had to jump through hoops to get my insurance info from the other pharmacy.” Her brows knitted together again.
“What do you mean? Carter gave me your info. He was the one who called.”
“Oh.”
“Look…” She paused, looking around as if making sure no one in the very empty place was listening. “I mean this in as nice ofa way as I can. Do you think you can give him what he wants?”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean exactly what I asked. Can you give him what he wants? And vice versa?”
“I know. Cart?—”
“No, you don’tknow. You’ve known him for a few months. I’ve known him for years. Carter needs a solid, guaranteed future. He wants to settle down, have a marriage and children. He needs stability, something asingercan’t guarantee. You’re a nice dream, but he needs a reality.” She paused. “And you. Do you really want to settle down in the middle of nowhere and let your dreams die in the name of lust? Marry a man you barely know and pop out baby after baby? Then two years from now, realize you made a mistake and leave, anyway?” She paused. “I’m tryin’ to help you, Emmy. Honest. You two are better off. And before you say anything, I’m not just sayin’ it to break you guys up or whatever, I have my own…problemnow. It’s just,” another pause and glance around. “Carter has a reputation.”
“One that’s been proven wrong.”
“Partially. He’s known to be very aggressive, borderline obsessive. I knew Jen before she left. And while I don’t believe he…rapedher, I do know he was extremely possessive. It runs in his blood. His dad is equally possessive, much more predatory, and downrightcreepy.” She seemed uncomfortable.
