by Leah Atwood
“There are bound to be hard times ahead—they only make us stronger and show our true character.” He gripped her hand a little tighter. “Don’t give up when it gets hard. Keep your faith. In us,” he added, so low she wasn’t sure she imagined it or really heard those last two words.
“I’m not going anywhere, Bryce.” She sought to reassure him, hearing the doubt between his words. “Have some faith in me.”
He sucked in a long breath as he turned onto her road. “I’m trying. I do. But when I see those two cars parked outside your house and I’m ninety-nine percent certain they’re from TEW, I can’t help but wondering what you are getting out of this.”
Her limbs began to tremble. “What do you mean, those two cars?”
“The black SUV and maroon sedan—they’ve never been on your street. Do you recognize them?”
“No. Don’t stop. Keep driving, please.” Tears of panic brimmed in her eyes. A fan interrupting their lunch was one thing. Tabloid journalists showing up at her house were entirely different. A series of deep breaths in rapid succession didn’t help calm her at all.
“I’m going to keep driving.” Bryce talked in calm, soothing tones. “The thing to remember is they’re physically harmless. All they want is to get a photo and make some money.”
“By stalking my house?” she squeaked.
“It’s scary the first time, I know. We’ll head to the park. My truck has a Tennessee plate, but it will be hidden by the boat trailer which has a Louisiana one. Plus, it’s dark anyway, so there’s no reason for them to suspect us.”
His assurances didn’t stop her from watching the side mirror for any signs of movement behind them. She knew she had to get a grip, but as much as Bryce had tried to warn her, she hadn’t prepared for the violation of her privacy, knowing they were waiting for her like a vulture to its prey. Nausea rolled through her stomach.
“Are you going to be okay?” Bryce gave her hand another squeeze, worry lining his question. “We’re pulling into the park now. No one is following us.”
“I think I’m going to be sick.”
“Deep breaths.”
“No, seriously, I’m going to be sick. Like, now.”
Slamming on the brakes, Bryce brought the truck to a complete stop. She jumped out and hunched over, powerless to stop her stomach from expelling its contents. She was still heaving when Bryce came to her side, wrapping one arm around her shoulder for support and one hand holding her hair out of the way.
Mortified, she looked up at him once her body ceased its contractions. “I’m so sorry. You must be horribly disgusted.”
“No, I’m more worried about you.” He brushed the damp hair from her forehead.
“I’m okay. Strangely, throwing up took the initial panic away, so I can look at the situation for what it is.”
“And?”
“I’m still freaked out, but what can they really do? Snap a few pictures?” She forced herself to sound more upbeat than she felt.
“That’s the way to look at it.” He opened the rear door and pulled out a roll of paper towels, handing her one to wipe her face. “I can’t promise it will be a one-time thing.”
Standing under the streetlight, she could see every doubt and fear etched into his expression. “And I can’t promise I won’t freak out again, but not like I just did. It took me by surprise. Either way, it’s not going to send me running.”
“There might be times it happens and I’m not here.”
“Are you trying to talk me out of dating you?” she half-teased.
“Not at all, but I’m so afraid you’ll wake up one day and realize I’m not worth the trouble.”
She put a finger to his mouth. “Don’t say that.”
He rolled his shoulders. “What are you getting from this relationship? You’re pure and innocent, everything I’m not. You had a nice, neat life until I came in and turned it upside down.”
“That nice neat life is because I was afraid to venture outside my comfort zone. I’ve missed out on a lot because I was afraid to shake things up or make waves. Not to say my life was unsatisfying, but there was something missing. You are that something. You knew reporters would show up today, didn’t you?”
“Yes.”
“And that’s why you rearranged your schedule to be here today, so I wouldn’t have to face them alone?”
His face contorted, and she knew he was trying to figure out whether she was mad. “Yes.”
“Why?”
“Because I love you, that’s why. Because everything in me wants to protect you and make your life easier, not harder.”
She ran the back of a hand against his bristly cheek. “There’s your answer, Bryce. That’s what I get from our relationship and it’s the greatest gift you could give.”
Bryce pulled her to him. “You’re still shaking,” he whispered.
“Not from the TEW crew. Because of you.”
“Me?”
“Because you love me. And I love you. Falling in love with you probably tops any crazy thing I ever even thought about doing, but I wouldn’t go back and undo it.” The reporters, her family moving, everything else except Bryce took the back burner. Right now, right here she was consumed with loving him and all the dizzying effects of knowing she was his and he loved her. Why hold the words back until later?
“Let’s make a pact not to question this anymore. All that matters is that God brought us together for a reason, differences and all.”
“I agree.” Leaning against his chest, she let the beat of his heart steady the last of her frayed nerves.
“Spend the night at my grandparents.”
“Huh?” She knew there must be a perfectly logical explanation for what he’d just said, but her foggy brain couldn’t comprehend. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“Not like that,” he stumbled, realizing how the suggestion could have come across. “They have an extra bedroom, right by their room and Gram is a light sleeper. Built-in chaperones. I just thought it would be easier if you had an extra day to adjust.”
“I couldn’t impose. Today or tomorrow, I’m going to have to face this and learn how to deal with the media.”
“Are you sure?” He rubbed her arms when she shivered,
“Yes. What do I do? How do I act?”
“They likely only want pictures and won’t push you for a comment. If they do, say no comment and keep walking. Don’t make eye contact or they’ll mistake that for an invitation to talk. The best thing to do is act normal.”
“I can do this. I think I can, I think I can.” The pep talk did little for her.
“You can, sweetheart. I’ll walk with you inside.”
“What if they’re still there in the morning?”
“They probably won’t be, but if they are, call the police. The sheriff is Gramps’ godson and he’ll take care of them.”
She breathed in deeply. “Let’s do this.”
Bryce kept contact with her the entire drive to her house, giving her the calm she needed. Since the boat was still trailered behind, he had no choice but to park along the road, making them sitting ducks for the entire walk into the house.
She looked around, every shadow seeming to jump at her. Was it a reporter? Just a tree limb? How could she be certain? The nausea returned, rolling in her stomach.
“How many are there?” she asked.
“Four that I can see. One in each vehicle, another over there by the tree and the last, by the mailbox.”
“I can’t do this,” she mumbled. Glancing out her window, she saw light coming from a neighbor’s window. Great. All she needed was an audience. Violating her privacy was bad enough—now her neighbors had to join in. So much for loyalty. She wasn’t being fair. Maybe her neighbors were only watching to make sure she got into the house okay.
“Yes, you can,” Bryce said. “Stay put until I come around. Where are your keys? Your hands are so shaky you’re likely to drill a hole in the door before gett
ing it unlocked.”
His attempt at humor helped her lighten up a little. Handing over her keys, she gathered her purse and said a quick prayer. Bryce walked around and opened her door. As soon as she stepped out, flashes went off.
Immediately, a reporter was at their side, shoving a microphone, or it might have been some type of recording device, in front of them. “How did you meet Bryce?” The reporter, a young thirties male, stepped directly in front of their path.
Pressing against the small of her back, Bryce gently nudged her around the man and forward. “Just keep walking. Thirty feet and we’re free.”
They were the longest thirty feet of her life. The flashes continued, and another reporter approached them, a middle-aged man. “Is it true you’re pregnant? What does your Christian employer think of your relationship with country’s reigning bad boy?”
Instinctively, she jerked her head toward the man, shocked at the ridiculous inquiries. Before she could respond, Bryce gave her a squeeze. “Don’t say anything. They’re only trying to get a rise out of you,” he hissed in low tones, his anger toward the so-called journalists evident.
She faced forward again, her eyes trained on the door. Her legs shook so badly it was a wonder she still stood. Questions were still being called out, but she no longer heard them through her fear and anxiety.
They reached the house and Bryce unlocked the door, deadbolting it after they were inside. “You made it.”
She exhaled the breath she’d been holding. “It wasn’t so bad.”
“You’re a terrible liar and they were at their worst tonight,” Bryce said at the tail end of a laugh that held no humor. “But I’m proud of you.”
“Will you stay a few minutes? I know you’re leaving first thing in the morning, but…” She trailed off. Knowing the TEW people were still outside left her uneasy, even though the worst was over. Despite all of her brave words, she wasn’t sure she could handle this.
“I’ll stay as long as you need. Tell me the truth—are you okay?” He looked at her, put his hands on her trembling arms.
“No,” she squeaked, her voice quivering. “That was horrible. The flashing, the invasion of privacy, the questions.” Her hand flew to her mouth, realizing the implications of what they’d asked. She never considered that her reputation was at stake. “You need to leave. Now.”
”I don’t think you should be alone right now, sweetheart.” The way he looked at her, she knew he sensed her near panic.
“Don’t you get it,” she said, her voice raising an octave. “You heard what they asked. We know nothing wrong is happening between us, but if you stay here any later, they’ll assume or twist things to make it seem like something is. Our reputations are on the line.”
He released her arms and ran a hand through his hair. “Forget my reputation. It’s been through worse. You’re upset, understandably so, and I don’t want you to deal with the slime balls outside alone.”
“Please,” she pleaded. “I’ll be fine, but I don’t want more rumors flying around than what’s obviously out there already. This is hard enough for me—I don’t need my name tarnished in the process.”
Hurt covered his eyes. “I’m sorry,” he whispered. “This is all my fault.”
“No, it’s not.” She forced a smile. “I love you—but for both of our sakes, you need to leave. You know I’m right.”
“I can call Dani,” he offered, and she heard the resignation in his voice. “She can stay with you until they leave.”
“I’m a big girl. I can handle this.” Her insides were a mush of emotions and her temples throbbed. She’d just told him a lie, but somehow, she would find a way to make it the truth.
“I’ll call you when I get to Grams, and we can stay on the phone for however long you need.”
“Okay.”
“I love you, Sophie. I wish I could make this easier for you.” His features held such insecurity about their situation, and she wanted to give him assurance.
But at the moment, she had none to give. She loved him, but would that be enough?
He gave her a kiss then walked out, leaving her alone. The group from TEW left not much later.
And for a long time, she curled up in her recliner, hugging herself, searching her soul and praying for a way to accept everything a relationship with Bryce entailed.
Chapter 18
“That’s a wrap. Let’s call it a night.” Bryce set aside his guitar, calling an end to practice for the night. They’d played for three hours, trying out the latest song he’d written and nailed it on the last set. “Who’s staying for steaks?”
“I’m in,” Adam spoke up. “Elle and Shannon are at some mommy-and-me pregnancy-playdate thing. It’s supposed to be some bonding thing before the baby comes.”
Rob groaned. “Can’t we have a single conversation that doesn’t mention a child?”
“Get used to it, man. We’re growing up.” Bryce slapped his friend and bass guitarist on the back. “Maybe you should think of settling down.”
“Nah, not while the going’s good. There’s plenty of time for that later.”
Bryce kept his opinions of Rob’s activities to himself. Not so long ago, he’d been in the same place. “So are you staying?”
“Why not?” Rob shrugged, indifferent, while putting his guitar away.
“You in, Jay?”
“Negative. Already have plans for the night and running late. Catch y’all later.” Jay threw on his leather jacket and bounded up the stairs.
“Does anyone else think he is acting weird?” Bryce asked.
Adam and Rob glanced back and forth at each other, an uncomfortable silence permeating the air.
“What aren’t you telling me?” He pinned them both with a determined stare.
Rob coughed.
“It’s not our place to tell.” Adam stepped sideways to grab a bottle of water.
Already on edge, Bryce wasn’t in the mood for games. He snapped. “Fine. I guess I missed the memo you all could chew me out for keeping secrets, but it’s okay for each of you to keep something from me. I’ll be upstairs.”
“Chill out—it’s not that serious,” Rob called, but Bryce was already stomping up the stairs, leaving the basement studio.
Regret for his bad attitude nudged him before he could pull the steaks from the fridge. His friends keeping a secret from him was bothersome but wasn’t the cause of his bad mood. It just happened to be the straw that broke the camel’s back.
He missed Sophie. August flew by and he’d only been able to see her once and just for a few hours at that. Since the school year began, their calendars seemed to be in constant conflict. They Skyped every night, but it wasn’t the same as being together. Now, September was here and there was no end in sight to the hectic schedules. He doubted he’d even hear from her again today because she thought she might have caught a stomach bug from a student and planned on going to bed early. So close to the beginning of the school year, she didn’t want to use a sick day already.
To make matters worse, news of Gracie was leaked to the press and had circulated back to his parents. The first call had been from his dad, who left a voicemail detailing what a disappointment his son was to him. Then his mom had left her own message, acting completely out of character with hysterical tears, asking what kind of son would hide his child from her grandparents. A return phone call was on his list of priorities, right under getting a root canal.
He opened the cabinet, rummaged through it in search of a dry rub for the steaks, and then slammed the door shut hard enough to create an echo through the house. What he wouldn’t give for a shot of whiskey. Too bad he’d emptied the house of any remnants of liquor. No, that was a good thing. That’s why he’d done it, so he couldn’t give in during times like this when the temptation was enough to drag him down.
“What’s going on?” Adam asked, walking into the kitchen with Rob.
“Nothing. Grab some drinks and I’ll meet you guys outside.” Ba
lancing the tray of meats in one hand, he grabbed the spice jar with the other and went outside to the deck.
Rob was quick on his heels, carrying out a six pack of sodas.
Adam grabbed a can, bent the tab backward and took a long drink. “You’re full of it, Landry.”
He lit the grill, ignoring them. His phone vibrated in his pocket and he pulled it out on the chance it was Sophie. When he saw his father’s number, he scowled, tapped ignore and turned the phone off.
“Are you really that ticked about Jay being all secretive?” Rob asked.
“Whatever, it’s his life,” he answered with a flippant shrug.
“Jay and Caroline are dating again.”
That caught his attention. He turned just in time to see Rob elbow Adam.
“What was that for?” Adam snarled to Rob. “He’s obviously mad, and I don’t see why it’s a big deal. It’s not worth the stress when he’s going to find out anyway.”
He crinkled his eyebrows. “Caroline and Jay are dating? For how long?”
Rob stood with his hands in his pockets. “Three months, give or take a few weeks.”
“Why wouldn’t they want me to find out?”
“They didn’t want anything to be awkward since you and Caroline dated before we all met and because we all work together.”
“First, I dated Caroline when I first came to Nashville six years ago and it was never that serious. Second, I’m in love with Sophie. She’s it for me, so I have no reason to be upset. Jay and Caroline are two of my best friends—if they’re happy, I’m happy.” Anger was a losing battle. They’d had their reasons for remaining quiet, just like he had. “Are they serious?”
“Jay seems to think it is,” Rob answered.
“You said they were dating again. When was the first time?” He rubbed his chin, taking it all in.
“Last year but out of the blue, Caroline broke it off at Christmastime.”
“How’d I miss all this?”
“Dude, you’ve been here physically but not mentally the entire past year.”
