Coming Home

Chapter 2

A river of memories wash over me as I hold Matt's gaze, and I realize that fate has a way of throwing us into situations we've never expected.

"Look who's finally graced us with her presence after all this time." Matt scoffs, his lips curling in disdain.

"I'm just here for Gran's birthday." I turn to Vivian, who is looking at us with curiosity and amusement. "So, Vivian, how have you been?" I ask, willing my heart to stop beating so fast. I knew Matt and I would cross paths eventually. It's not like anyone can hide around these parts. I was just not expecting him to get under my skin so easily.

"Can't complain," Vivian says, pulling me away from my thoughts. "I left my job after I got pregnant again and Milo got a promotion at the factory. We're ready for this little one to be born and have our family finally complete..." She rubs her belly, making me wonder if it's all that has happened to her.

Being a mom, a wife... Is that ever enough for a woman? Then, I take a good look at her, and she's... glowing? Is she really that happy? I study her shining eyes and serene smile.

A fleeting thought invades my mind, and I wonder if I'd be like Vivian had I not applied to college to go after my dreams.

"When is it due?" I ask, trying to focus on her, and not the tall muscled dark-haired staring at me.

"She'll be here in three months," she says, a smile gracing her face before she turns to a crying toddler. "Sorry, I need to go. But it was nice seeing you, Jenny." She gives me a slight once over, her eyes lingering on my red heels for a little too long.

"You too." I return her smile. "But hey, my car broke down the road. Do you think you know where I could get someone to help me?"

"I'll drive you to Lola's place," Matt says, his eyes narrowing. "The shop is closed for the day, but I'm sure Sam can look at your car tomorrow."

My eyes widen in surprise. "Sam as in Samuel Hayes?"

"The one and only," Matt says, unable to hide his annoyance.

"Wow, he was just a kid when I left. Is he really working at his father's shop?" I shake my head, reminiscing about the bright and talented young boy he once was.

"He pursued a career in mechanics and came back to Rose town a couple of years ago to take over the business after his father's passing," Matt replies, his gaze hardening.

I need to take a moment to compose myself before speaking.

"That's not what I meant," I say, shooting him a glare of my own. Gran had told me about Sam's father's death when it happened, but being back in town makes it feel more real.

"Of course, city girl," Matt says, a mocking smile playing on his lips.

"Uh, I could give you a ride..." Vivian says, her eyes darting between Matt and me.

"You have your hands full, Viv. I'll handle her," Matt says, giving her a warm smile, which only fuels my frustration.

Nobody is handling me.

"Well then," Vivian says, already making her way toward the exit. "Don't be a stranger, Jen."

Walking to the teenager behind the counter to see if I can borrow her phone, I can feel the weight of Matt's glare on my back. "Look..." He starts, but I cut him off.

"I don't need your help."

"Really, Jen?" he says with that annoyed tone again, but I don't turn to him.

"It's alright," I wave my hand.

"Jen..."

"I'll call Gran and ask her to pick me up," I smile at the girl behind the counter. "Hi, could you please–"