That Loving Feeling (Jake Seresin x Mitchell OC)

Chapter Four

Jake spent the next few days mulling over his conversation with Bradley and the information he had managed to piece together about Millie's situation. He was still troubled by her guarded demeanor and the complexity of her marital situation. Despite his best intentions to respect her privacy, he felt a growing urgency to ensure she was safe and supported.

One evening, after a particularly long day at Top Gun, Jake decided to visit the Hard Deck again. He hoped to check in with Millie and see how she was doing, even if it meant keeping things light and non-intrusive.

As he walked into the bar, the familiar warmth and noise enveloped him. He spotted Millie behind the bar, serving drinks with her usual efficiency. She looked up as he approached, a flicker of recognition crossing her face.

"Hey, Jake," she said, her tone polite but reserved. "What can I get you tonight?"

"Just a beer, thanks," Jake replied, taking a seat at the bar. "How's everything going?"

Millie handed him a beer and shrugged. "Busy, as usual. It's a Friday night, after all."

Jake took a sip of his drink, trying to gauge her mood. "I know things have been hectic lately. Just wanted to see how you're holding up."

Millie's expression softened slightly, though she still seemed guarded. "I'm managing. Thanks for checking in."

Jake hesitated, then decided to tread carefully. "You know, I've been thinking about our last conversation. About your husband and everything. I just want you to know that if you ever need to talk or need anything, I'm here."

Millie's eyes met his, and he could see a flicker of something—perhaps relief or gratitude. "I appreciate that, Jake. It means a lot, even if I'm not ready to talk about everything."

Jake nodded, respecting her boundaries. "Of course. I'm not pushing. Just wanted to let you know I'm around if you need me."

As the evening progressed, Jake found himself more engaged in conversation with other patrons, but his thoughts frequently drifted back to Millie. He noticed how she seemed to put on a brave face, managing the bar with a mix of professionalism and weariness.

Near the end of her shift, Millie took a brief break and sat down at a small table near the bar, rubbing her temples as if trying to relieve some of the stress. Jake, seeing an opportunity to offer support without intruding, approached her table.

"Mind if I join you for a minute?" he asked gently.

Millie looked up, surprised but not displeased. "Sure. I could use a break."

Jake took a seat across from her, his expression earnest. "I've been thinking... if there's ever anything you need help with—beyond just talking—I want you to know you don't have to go through it alone."

Millie sighed, her shoulders sagging slightly. "I know you're trying to be helpful, Jake. And I do appreciate it. It's just... sometimes it's hard to let people in when you're used to handling things on your own."

Jake leaned in slightly, his voice soft. "I get that. But you don't have to handle everything by yourself. Even if it's just a distraction or a listening ear, I'm here."

For a moment, Millie's defenses seemed to lower as she looked at him. "You're really persistent, you know that?"

Jake smiled faintly. "I guess that's one way to put it. I just care about you, Millie. And I want to make sure you're okay."

Millie's gaze softened, and she offered a small, genuine smile. "Thank you, Jake. I'll keep that in mind."

As she stood up to return to her duties, Jake felt a small sense of accomplishment. He had managed to show Millie that he was there for her without pushing too hard. He knew it was a delicate balance, but he hoped that, over time, she might come to see him as a trustworthy ally.

Jake watched as Millie resumed her work, her movements more fluid and confident. He could tell she was strong, but he also knew she was carrying burdens that weren't immediately visible. As he left the Hard Deck, he resolved to continue being a supportive presence in her life, even if he had to wait for her to fully open up.

Jake stepped out of the Hard Deck into the cool night air, the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves crashing in the distance. The street was quieter now, the lively energy of the bar fading into a gentle hum. As he walked to his car, he glanced back at the warmly lit building, a sense of determination settling over him.

Tonight had been a mix of hope and frustration. He'd managed to show Millie that he was there for her without overstepping her boundaries, and that, he hoped, would be a step toward gaining her trust. The glimpse he'd caught of her vulnerability had only deepened his resolve to be a supportive presence in her life.

As Jake drove home, his mind replayed their conversation. He reflected on the complexity of Millie's situation and the hints of pain she had yet to fully reveal. The knowledge that her husband was out of the picture didn't erase his concerns; if anything, it intensified them. He was more committed than ever to being someone she could rely on when she was ready to open up.

Arriving at his apartment, Jake shut the car door and took a deep breath. He was committed to being patient, understanding, and supportive. As he unlocked his door and stepped inside, he resolved to respect Millie's boundaries while remaining vigilant, ready to offer help when she might need it.

The silence of his apartment was a stark contrast to the noise of the Hard Deck, but it provided a moment of peace. Jake knew the road ahead would be challenging, but he felt a sense of purpose. For now, he would continue to support Millie from a distance, hoping that in time, she might find the strength to confide in him.

As he settled into his evening routine, Jake's thoughts were filled with a mixture of hope and anticipation. He knew that earning Millie's trust would take time, but he was prepared to wait. His commitment to being there for her, no matter how long it took, was unwavering.