Page 14 of Saved By Love at Christmas
“I know it is, Rubes.”
“I don’t want people whispering behind my back or making assumptions about why I’ve come home without a business to return to or Jamie by my side.”
“Let them think what they want. Take this as a minor setback, nothing more.” I wanted her to feel safe in her hometown, not uncomfortable.
“It’s the first meltdown I’ve had since leaving Jamie. I thought I was having a heart attack.”
“If you like, I can give you some breathing and meditation techniques to help with the anxiety.”
Her big green eyes looked at me with hope and gratitude. I’d always loved her eyes, how they sparkled when she was excited and almost glowed when she was content. They were extremely expressive, and as the old saying goes, a man really could drown in them.
“Of course. Anything for my best friend. Now, let’s get you home.”
“It’s okay, I can walk.”
“Not on my watch. Your grandad would never forgive me if anything happened to you.”
Her hand flew up to her mouth. “Have you told him?”
“Yes. I sent him a text to let him know I’m with you and I’ll get you home safely.”
“I don’t want to worry him.”
“Ruby, you can’t hide things like this from him.”
“I guess you’re right. You usually are.” She sighed.
“Come on. Time to go.”
When I pulled up outside the cottage, I switched off the engine. Ruby went to open the door when I caught her by the arm.
“Let me open it for you. You might still be a little faint.”
She nodded and sat back in her seat. I opened the passenger door and took hold of one of her hands. I noticed how much she still trembled. I helped her down and she slumped against me. My arms wrapped around her as more tremors ran through her.
“Am I ever going to be normal again?” she murmured against me.
* * *
RUBY
Grandad was waiting at the door for us. The worry lines across his forehead made me feel guilty, once again, for all I’d put him through. My legs started to give way. I guess it was delayed reaction to the café incident. Ben caught me and carried me in his arms. I looped my hands around his neck and buried my face against him. There was the faint smell of fresh soap and his own distinct scent underneath. I found myself breathing it in, giving me a sense of calm and familiarity. Poor Grandad seemed to be aging before my eyes. I couldn’t let myself get like this anymore. Jamie mustn’t be allowed to dominate my life like this. He was in my past and I had to somehow tell myself that’s where he had to stay.
“Come on, love. Let’s get you into the sitting room. The heat is on full, and I’ve just lit the fire.”
Ben started to help me with my coat.
“It’s okay. I’ve got this.”
I managed to get it off and sat on the sofa. Ben took my boots off and put a blanket over me.
“My groceries.” I started to get up.
“It’s okay, Rubes. I’ll get them out of my car.”
“Thanks again, for everything. You’ve seen me at my worst now.”
He knelt in front of me and took my hands in his. “We’ve been through a lot together over the years. Don’t you dare start hiding yourself away from me. Okay?”
