Coming Home

Chapter 3

Joe's comforting touch on my shoulder lingers as he walks behind the bar to grab a beer for himself.

Sitting on the familiar stool from my childhood, I'm engulfed by a wave of nostalgia and transported back to the days when Joe would serve customers while helping me with my homework.

Matt has disappeared into the office in the back, leaving me alone with Joe and the unfamiliar faces of the customers.

"You're looking good, sweetheart," Joe says, patting my hand as he settles beside me.

A watery smile forms on my lips as I reply, "I finally made it, Joe. I got a degree, a great job, my own place... I feel like I've finally made it, you know? Like I can finally look at myself in the mirror and be proud of myself." I bite my lower lip, still feeling like that little girl who craves his approval.

"I'm so proud of you, Jen." He nods, his eyes studying me intently.

"I should've stayed in touch more often, but..." I shake my head, feeling a surge of embarrassment. No excuse can justify my lack of regular contact.

"You were protecting your heart. I get it. Your grandma gets it. It's all good." Joe holds both my hands, just like he used to when I was younger and upset.

"I can't believe he bought the bar," I chuckle, trying to blink away some stupid tears that threaten to fall.

"Matt is nothing if not persistent. He knew I'd need to retire someday and was there to make me an offer when the time arrived." Joe shrugs, but his eyes are shining with pride for Matt.

"He loves this town more than anything." I take a sip of my beer, my eyes burning with a mix of resentment and tears.

"He needs the roots this place gives him... You have wings and were born to fly..." Joe squeezes my hands, his eyes reflecting a tinge of sadness.

"Well..." I clear my throat, trying to pull myself together. "It's over, anyway. It's been over for so long. I don't know why I'm bringing this up."

"Are you ready to go?" I hear Matt's voice from behind me.

"Sure," I reply, standing up to give Joe a heartfelt hug. "I'm sorry for not being better at keeping in touch. I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me."

"No apologies needed." Joe hugs me tightly, and this time, tears escape my eyes uncontrollably.

"You're messing with my makeup, old man," I playfully slap his chest before wiping below my eyes.

"Tell your grandmother I said hi." Joe chuckles. "I'll stop by soon so we can all catch up."

"I'd love that," I say, a genuine smile gracing my lips.

Matt touches Joe's shoulder. "Anne will arrive soon, and I'll be here before the night shift."

"I got it, kid." Joe lets out a burst of heartfelt laughter. "I've been doing it for forty years. Relax."

"Right." Matt smiles, and my heart skips a beat.

Matt had always been the most handsome boy in town, with his captivating smile and unruly dirty blond hair always drawing attention.

But now, he's become even more alluring. His boyish features have given place to sharper lines, and his hair is neatly trimmed close to his nape.

His honey-brown eyes reflect wisdom and determination, replacing the carefree gaze of his youth.

Instead of rock band shirts and converses, he now sports rolled-up shirts and polished shoes that speak of sophistication.

"Done checking me out?" Matt smirks, and I can't help but blush.