Everyone Has Something To Hide

Chapter Two

Desert land is all Juliane sees as she opens her eyes, looking out the airplane window. Her eyes scanning over the beautiful trees and the way the sun bounces off the ocean and the stretch of land.

"Hey mom," she says softly, feeling the squeeze.

"Oh honey, it's so good to see you," Jan squeezes her daughter and pulls away. "Do you want to get some breakfast?"

Juliane nods. "Yeah, that would be great."

They pile into her mother's car, heading back towards town. Juliane sees the old town is still tiny, but has acquired a bunch of new places. Her mom parks in front of a cafe and they head inside. She wraps her hands around the steaming cup of black coffee and sets it down.

"How was your flight?" Jan asks, sliding her hand in hers.

"I slept pretty much the whole time so it was good," Juliane chuckles.

"Well that's great at least."

"Yeah," Juliane nods, pulling her phone out. She lets Trevor know she's made it before sliding it back in her purse.

"You'll love the food here. They get it all from a farm just outside of town."

"When did this place come into town?" Juliane asks, looking around.

"A couple years ago, someone revived that old farm near the house and then once they got some stuff growing they decided to open a restaurant," her mother says lightly. Juliane's attention pulled to a tanned, brown hair gentleman walking into the restaurant. "Link," her mom shouts, "hold on a second!"

"Good morning," the stranger named Link walks over.

"Juliane this is Link, he's the one that owns the farm I was just telling you about," her mother smiles.

Juliane watches this Link man take off his hat and sticking the brim of it into his back pocket. "It's actually Lincoln but I go by Link. It's a pleasure to meet you," he smiles, a perfect row of white teeth flashing back at her.

Juliane slides her hand in his. "Nice to meet you too."

"I'd ask how everything is but for some reason you don't have any food yet," Link sighs.

"Link moved to town about five years ago," Jan informs her daughter.

"Yes, I'm guessing you're in town visiting from California," Link nods over to Juliane. Clearly her mom hiding no details with this man.

"Mom," Juliane smirks at her. "Yes, you're guessing right."

"Well it was an absolute pleasure to meet you. I'll go check on your food," Link nods, disappearing into the back.

"Cute isn't he?"

Juliane shakes her head at her mom, trying to play cupid. "He is, but quit trying to play matchmaker. I'm married remember?" she reminds her mom, holding up her hand.

Jan rolls her eyes. "Juliane I know, I would never want something to happen that could jeopardize your marriage."

Link walks out a few minutes later with their food. He sets it down and walks away. She notices her mom checking out Link's backside.

"....but you have to appreciate the scenery," Jan looks at her.

"Oh my god mom," Juliane chuckles, digging into her food.

"What? Oh come on, don't be a prude."

"I'm not."