What Could Be (Everyday Love Book 1)
Page 6
Brynn
A week and a half later, Brynn was walking into the computer science building to say hi to Caleb. She knew he and his study group would be taking over a couple of tables there in between classes. It had been several days since they’d seen each other, and she could feel something shifting. She couldn’t exactly put her finger on it, but something was definitely off.
She could hear distinctly male laughter ringing through the halls as she approached the area where she knew they’d be sitting. She rounded the corner and caught her first glimpse of the guys, and something flickered uncomfortably in her stomach. Caleb looked completely at ease and in his element. His face shone with laughter at some joke that had just passed between them, and he looked more relaxed than she’d seen him in what felt like forever. She couldn’t figure out why that realization stung so much, but it did.
All heads turned her way and the laughter slowly settled down. Caleb grinned at her and stood, his long legs carrying him to her in a few steps as he picked her up in a giant hug.
“Babe! I didn’t expect to see you until this weekend. How are things?” He pressed a kiss to her temple before setting her down and releasing her.
“I’m good. It’s been a long week and I can’t believe we’re almost to Halloween. The kids are all talking about what they’re going to dress up as and where they’re going to trick or treat.” She tucked her hair behind her ear and shifted her stance. “The semester feels like it’s flying by when I’m at work, but here at school it feels like it’s dragging on forever.”
Caleb frowned a little as he replied, “Huh. I wonder why? Is everything going okay in your classes?”
“Yeah, I think so. I just keep finding that my mind is wandering and I’m not as focused as I usually am this year. I thought once I started my actual nursing courses this semester that I’d finally feel like things were starting to fall into place, you know? Instead, I keep daydreaming about the kids and all the things I want to do with the SAEC program.”
“I can see that. But, some semesters are always harder than others and we don’t always like the classes we’re taking, you know? Next semester will be a whole new round of clinicals—maybe some more hands-on stuff. You might just find yourself feeling differently.”
Caleb was so smart, so rational. She knew he was right, but that didn’t stop her from second guessing herself. Again. Lately she felt herself waffling. She loved being at work so much that being with the other nursing students left her feeling like she didn’t really fit. That year she’d taken off school and then changing majors had set her back on her timetable for getting her degree, but she was making real progress toward her BSN. Next semester, the nursing requirements became a lot tougher and she would likely have to leave the SAEC in order to put in all of the time required for not only classes, but studying and possible labs. The thought of not being with her students in just a few months clenched at her chest tightly and gnawed at her gut.
“I hate the idea of not being around the kids next year. I don’t know if I can give them up. It’s such a joy to be with them every day, and I’ll miss working with them and being able to hang out with Gina, too.”
Caleb seemed to consider this for a minute, but before he could reply a look of surprise crossed his face and his whole countenance lit up.
“I’ve got it! I figured out how to solve that stupid code we couldn’t get to work!”
Caleb shoved aside a bunch of papers next to his laptop and shifted it over so the guys could see what he was about to do. He started rapidly clicking away at the keyboard and immediately Brynn felt like she’d turned invisible and had been dismissed.
“I guess I’ll see you later. I’m going to head to class,” Brynn muttered dejectedly.
“Uh huh, see you, babe.” Caleb didn’t even look up, fingers flying over the keyboard.
She shook her head and walked out of the building and into the cool midday sunshine. There were still forty-five minutes or so until her next class, but since she couldn’t spend it with Caleb, she decided to grab an early lunch from one of the carts and hang out by the duck pond and people watch.
The duck pond was host to dozens of random ducks all year round. Most flew off as the weather got colder, but it was still the middle of October when the weather was more chilly than cold and there were plenty still waddling around and begging for food. Students gathered around the different grassy areas surrounded by giant cottonwoods and elm trees to hang out, study, read, meditate, goof off, and meet up with significant others for between-class smooches. There was always a variety of people to observe and it made her happy to study the assortment of interactions.
“Hey,” a familiar voice just beyond her called out, startling her.
She whirled her head to look left and saw Josh Davis, decked out in his usual work attire of slacks, perfectly pressed dress shirt, and tie. It was a great look for him.
“Hey yourself. I’d never expect to see you here on campus.” The corners of one side of her lips turned up into a partial, hesitant smile.
“I had a meeting with some people about this gala I’m working on that will be in the SUB ballroom net month. Thought I’d walk around campus and see what all’s changed since I went here. I always loved the duck pond.”
The sub was what everybody called the student union building on campus. It had just been remodeled a few years ago and hosted a gorgeous 11,000 square foot grand ballroom. She’d gone to a few homecomings and prom in the old ballroom back in high school just before the remodel.
“I bet that will be amazing. I haven’t seen the new ballroom, but if it looks as good as the rest of the building, your gala should be a phenomenal success.”
“I sure hope so. I’m working hard to promote this event for a nonprofit client. They do some really great work and I want this gala to be a big success for them.”
His voice was filled with conviction, and she admired his obvious passion for what he was working on. He seemed more relaxed today, talking about his work even for just a moment, and she enjoyed the change.
“I’ve got some time before my next class if you want to join me here,” she motioned to the seat next to her on the concrete park bench overlooking the pond. “Sorry I don’t have an extra to share,” she lifted the half-eaten, partially foil-wrapped burrito in her hand.
“No worries, it was a lunch meeting. I feel bad for interrupting yours.”
“Oh, please,” she waved a hand dismissively, “I’m so used to eating on the go with class or kids interrupting me that I’m pretty sure I’ve forgotten what a hot meal is like.”
He chuckled. “Story of my life.”
She scooted over a few more inches and Josh took the invitation to sit down. They started out talking about mundane things like the weather, jumped to talking about their own experiences as students at UNM, and continued from random topic to random topic as if they’d been friends for years. Before she knew it, they’d been talking for an hour and a half. She checked the time on her phone and gasped in surprise.
“Oh my gosh! I completely missed my class!” The shock on her face was reflected in his.
“Oh man, I’m sorry! Was it an important one?” He seemed genuinely apologetic for being responsible for her missed class. She smiled to put him at ease, knowing she had enjoyed every moment of their conversation and wasn’t upset in the least that she’d skipped it.
Who knew that underneath all that reserve was a talkative guy?
Josh
I could sit here for the rest of the day with this girl. The twinkle in the corners of those stunning bright blues was like a tractor beam pulling him in. If he could be the reason for putting that twinkle there, well…ever, he’d call it a win. A big one.
“I feel bad I made you miss your class. And I’ll bet you have to leave pretty soon to get over to the school before the kids get out, am I right?” He shook his head with a smile of chagrin.
“Seriously, no worries,” she waved off his concern.
“It’s probably the easiest class in my load, and the prof is pretty good about responding if I have questions on the homework or something I missed.”
She smiled, and he knew she genuinely wasn’t worried about it. Glancing again at the time on her phone, she continued, “And yes, I do have to get going. I’ve got to catch the shuttle to the main lot and then drive across town to the school to get there on time. Days like today are always pushing it.”
She stood to pack up her things. “I’m glad we bumped into each other. I always love people watching, but good conversation is always better. I’ll see you after 6?” She smiled a friendly smile. Was that a twinge of hopefulness in her tone just then?
“Uh, no, actually.” He cleared his throat, suddenly a bit nervous again. “My parents are picking Brendan up today to take him to soccer. I’ve got a men’s life group at church.” He hoped he didn’t sound as disappointed as he felt for not being able to see her again later.
“Oh, that’s cool!” she exclaimed, sounding pleasantly surprised by the revelation that he was active in church. “What church do you go to? Um, I mean, you don’t have to answer that if it’s private. Sorry to be so nosy.”
“No, it’s fine. I go to Well of Hope. It’s a pretty laid-back non-denominational church over in mid-town.”
“That’s great. And you’re part of a men’s life group? I love that! I used to be a lot more active in the college women’s Bible study at my church, before school got too crazy and I had to spend all my free time studying.”
“It’s my first night and I’ve never gone to one before. Honestly, it’s a little awkward, not knowing what to expect. The pastor’s son started the group and invited me last week at church. I guess it’s geared toward the post-college age guys in the church. It sounds like mostly married guys and younger dads. We’ll see.”
“So,” he changed topics, “you’re taking a full class load and running an after-school program and you don’t have time for a Bible study? What a heathen,” his mock scoff letting her know he was teasing.
“Completely,” she deadpanned. And then her face broke out into a silly grin that socked him in the gut like a bag of bricks.
“I know, I know. I really am a dorky goody two-shoes. And it gets worse. I’m still pretty involved in church, and actually spend weekends doing stuff with my parents and little brother. And Caleb. And sometimes? I actually…” her voice lowered to an exaggerated whisper as she paused dramatically, “…even donate blood.”
“But there’s still hope for me,” she laughed and Josh couldn’t help but laugh too. Except, his brain snagged on that little word she’d tossed out at the end. Caleb?
Brynn hefted her overloaded backpack off the ancient bench and over one shoulder. She took a second to adjust her pretty cream colored fuzzy sweater and skinny jeans tucked into tan boots that made her legs look long and lean before slipping the other strap over her other shoulder and bouncing it into a comfortable place. That backpack had to weigh a hundred pounds. He grinned at her and she gave him a self-conscious smile in return.
“What? Did I sit in bird poop?” she cocked her hip to check behind her. Nope, but it sure was hard not to sneak another peek at her perfectly shaped behind. So much for “taking captive every thought.” Get a grip, Josh. He intentionally met her eyes.
“You’re good. I was just thinking that backpack has to weigh more than you do.”
“Yeah, right!” she scoffed.
Surely she didn’t think she was overweight. She wasn’t skinny, but she was perfectly curved and still slender. She didn’t seem the type to be obsessed over her weight. But then, he couldn’t exactly see what was going on in the mind of a woman he hardly knew. Instead of responding, he merely raised a skeptical eyebrow.
“Not that I think I’m fat or anything,” she seemed to read his mind, “but realistically I’d have to be a skeleton to weigh less than this big old bag, and skeleton I am not.”
No, you’re perfect. Ugh, he was getting sick of himself already. This little crush or whatever it was would make him stupid if he didn’t do something to pursue or get over it.
“Well, I’d better head out. Thanks again for chatting with me. I’ll see you soon,” she said, giving him a slight wave as she walked away toward the shuttle stop. He held a hand up and dipped his head in a silent send off before turning the opposite direction toward the visitor parking garage on the other side of campus.
He sure hoped Caleb was her dog.
Brynn
Later that evening, as she cleaned everything up and prepared to close the building to head home, she thought back to her surprising afternoon at the duck pond. She shook her head, chiding herself for frittering away the afternoon with such a cute, no, she admitted, hot, and sweet guy. She had a boyfriend, for heaven’s sake! Guilt sent heat creeping up her neck and left a flushed trail of shame in its wake. She had Caleb, a great guy every bit as sweet as Josh, who loved her and wanted the best for both of them, and yet he hadn’t even crossed her mind since she’d left the engineering building earlier that morning.
She released a heavy sigh and spun around trying to remember where she’d set her bag. Duh! She snapped her fingers and crossed to the tall art supply cabinet. She opened the double doors and reached for her purse, pulled out her keys and set about locking up for the night.
It was nearly seven, and the nights were getting distinctly darker earlier every day. She breathed in and out in silent prayer to the heavenly Artist whose handiwork had faded into muted shades of grayish blues, oranges, and pinks. It had probably been a gorgeous sunset, but now the shadows were overtaking the sky. Funny, but it almost felt like those same shadows were invading her mind as well these days.
Brynn slid into her driver’s seat, turned the ignition and immediately silenced the radio. This introspective mood of hers was a little overwhelming and she wanted to sort through it all. All day long her thoughts had felt cluttered. All week, actually. The memories and confusion and feelings had flooded her mind one after the other, never fully leaving her even in the midst of class, driving across town, working with the kids, and now….
It was too much. She desperately needed a break. Maybe some girl time? She’d call Gina and make some plans for the weekend. Brynn touched the Bluetooth button on her steering wheel and voice dialed her best friend. It rang several times before Gina’s voice directed her to leave a message. Brynn fired off a quick text instead of leaving a voicemail before pulling out of the school parking lot. She turned onto the main road to head for home, thankful she didn’t have class tonight.
Her ringer blared through the speakers and she glanced at the ID to see Caleb calling.
“Hey,” she answered.
“Hey, Babe. Sorry I kind of blew you off earlier,” Caleb’s voice echoed in the small cabin of her little SUV.
She suppressed an eye roll and blew out an exasperated sigh before answering. At least he realized he’d done it and was apologizing.
“It’s okay. I know how you are once you finally figure out something you’d been missing. You’re nothing if not dedicated!” She forced her voice to sound cheerful, even though the melancholy was weighing her down and she was exhausted from the long day.
“Yeah,” he paused, “still, though, it was nice seeing you there. I kind of like finding you in my world when I least expect it.” He cleared his throat before continuing. “So, uh, I wasn’t sure if you remembered that Nonny and Gramps’ big anniversary dinner is this weekend. I can pick you up Saturday at 5 and head to the restaurant from there.”
“Sure. Do I need to bring anything? Does your mom need help with the last-minute details?” She knew the answer would be no, but Brynn was always one to step in wherever she might be needed and lend a helping hand. Of course, Caleb’s mom would never ask for help. Diane March loved hosting parties and showers and special occasions of all sorts. It was one of the few things they had in common.
“I’ll ask, but you know Mom,” he chuckled.
The call waiting beep on her other line interrupted the trailing conversation, so she let him go before answering.
“Hey, Gina! I’m so glad you called me back. I need a girls’ night, like now.”
Her friend laughed, “Well hello to you, too! But I agree. A girls’ night sounds like heaven. What are you doing this weekend?”
“I’ve got Caleb’s grandparents’ anniversary dinner on Saturday, but Friday I’m free.”
“Friday should work. Robert asked me to cover his closing duties, so we can just leave right after work. What do you want to do?”
Brynn thought for a moment and said the first thing that came to mind, “Chick flick and brownie sundaes!”
Gina laughed and heartily agreed. They made firmer plans and Brynn couldn’t wait for Friday to come. Just a couple more days!
Brynn pulled into her parents’ driveway feeling significantly lighter and more energetic. The emotions taxing her all day had finally subsided back into the recesses of her subconscious where they belonged, and she could enjoy some time with her family before she’d have to study for midterms. Oh, goody.
Friday could not get here fast enough.
Chapter 9
Josh
Walking into the little break room had been a colossal mistake. Josh had thought that after 5 on a Friday would mean everyone had pretty much gone home and he could grab one last cup of coffee to take with him in the car before he left to pick up Brendan.
He should’ve known better. He’d barely stepped through the door way when he caught sight of a well-shaped, perfectly proportioned behind bending over in the refrigerator. The merlot colored skirt rode far too high for what would be considered appropriate office attire, and it was stretched snugly enough that he immediately knew to whom it belonged. He swallowed a groan and tried to keep his face neutral.