Split Love

CHAPTER 32

SATURDAY, June 29, 2019.

The city's anniversary celebration began halfway down Maple St., with a curved, illuminated sign, and extended down the street with food and drink stands and some games; At the end of the street, in the large fire station parking lot were the attractions. There were only 5 major attractions, but it managed to draw attention from neighboring cities.

Willow Creek was full that night. Citizens arrived a few minutes before 5 pm to hear a speech from Mayor Lockwood and his wife, Nora Lockwood, who was glowing, proud of their idea and that the committee managed to organize everything in just 1 month - of course with the help from many other people, who she made a point of thanking in her brief speech.

Jamie, Micah, and Debra went there on foot and remained together during the opening but Debra detached from the couple after that. The two walked out onto the street, looking at all the stalls and even playing a few games. Jamie wasn't very good, but Micah got her some prizes.

When night began to fall over the valley, the city lights came on, creating a beautiful atmosphere alongside the colorful lights of the attractions. Happy music played through some speakers spread across the street.

- I'm going to buy some popcorn, do you want one? - Jamie asked him.

- No. I'm thirsty. I'm going to get something to drink and I'll meet you here, okay? - Jamie nodded and gave him a quick kiss.

She was just a few steps away from the cart selling popcorn, and while she was in line, she tried to watch him walk away but lost him in the crowd.

- Hey, stranger. - Jamie listened next to her as soon as she paid for her popcorn. She turned around and saw Jordan.

- Hey! - She hugged him with a smile. - It's been what? 6 months?

- Since Christmas. How are you?

- Good and you?

- Good too.

- Busy life in Hartford? - She asked as they walked away from the popcorn cart.

- If work for more than 15 hours means a busy life. So yes, I reached the peak of agitation. - He chuckled.

- You need to be patient, it'll be worth it.

- It'll be? - He tilted his head to the side scrutinizing her. His question seemed to have a double meaning but she decided to ignore it.

- Yes, I'm sure. Isn't there a saying that says we have to lose to win? - She laughed, trying to cheer him up, but something caught her eyes in the background, and her smile faded.

Behind Jordan, between two game stands, Jamie saw a man standing, watching her. His face was impassive, and he had his hands hidden in the front pocket of a black sweatshirt. The hoodie covered his head, creating a sinister shadow over him.

- J? - Jordan snapped his finger in front of her face bringing her back to him. But although her eyes were on him, her mind was distant. - Everything all right?

- I think so. - She replied, looking back at the hooded man. But there was no one else there. She looked around but there were so many people on the street that it was impossible to find him. - I thought I saw someone.