Page 67 of Sugarloaf Ridge Lies

“Lean on her if you need, but enjoy yourself, okay?”

I clear my throat as emotion makes it difficult to swallow. “I will. Sorry for the outburst.”

“Please,” she says on a chuckle. “That was nothing. Need I remind you I have a teenage son? You know I’m here for you, anytime.”

We say our goodbyes, then I change into a loose blouse, add a blazer as an extra layer, and make my way to dinner.

Unable to find a spot in the pub carpark, I park along the street. As I walk towards the pub, a woman with grey hair, in jeans and a navy woollen jumper approaches.

Penny McAllister.

Fuck.

Her shoulders stiffen. She scans up and down the street before crossing the road, continuing in the same direction. Did she seriously cut over to the other side to avoid me?

Can I blame her?

No.

The last time we crossed paths was on Anzac Day when Jerry and I were all over each other. She’s protective of her son, and I’m sure she doesn’t think very highly of me after breaking it off so soon.

If only it didn’t have to be this way.

***

Ipeel my weary bodyfrom the chair and walk to the bar. I need sugar.

The bartender greets me with a smile. His dark locks bounce as he juts his chin. “What can I get for you?”

“Lemonade in a tall glass, please.”

He moves to the other end of the bar and sets about making my drink.

A tall man sidles up on my right and puts down a half-full schooner. A cloud of stale beer and sweat permeates the air. He rests his elbows on the bar, his dusty work shirt brushing up against my arm.

Hello? Personal space?

I try to move to the left, but an older woman is in the process of collecting two wines.

“Buy you a drink?” the man drawls, leaning in close enough for me to see his bloodshot eyes.

I return my attention to the bartender. “No, thanks. I have a drink coming.”Hurry.

“Sure. I’ll get the next one. What you havin’, sweetheart?”

I turn to him. “I’m fine.”

“You live ’round here?”

Really? He wants to get chatty?Take the hint.

“Yes.” But that’s all you’re getting out of me.

“Perfect. Surely a cutie like you would be happy to oblige a gentleman with some company for a drink or two? Give me the inside knowledge on where else to eat in this godforsaken town. The steak I had yesterday was like rubber.”

Gentleman?Unlikely. Godforsaken town?

He grips my elbow, firm enough that my breath catches. “Why don’t you come on over here.”

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