the Ruger P95 9 mm in stainless steel. Probably just the sort of handgun you’re looking for.”
Picking it up, I check the weight and feel of it in my hands. No matter how many times I’ve held a gun, it still feels foreign to me.
The nice gentleman shows me where to put the bullets then brings out some of them to look at. He uses all these technical terms that go way above my head. In the end, I tell him I’ll take it, just so I can get the hell out of there.
“I will need two proofs of identification.” I bring out my driver’s license and work ID which he seems satisfied with. “I’ll just need to run a check on you. It won’t take long.”
Sure enough, after just a couple of minutes he comes back smiling. “Okay, all done. How would you like to pay?”
I take out my Visa and pay the three hundred and ninety-nine dollars for the gun and ammo.
As I’m making my way back to work, I get a quick phone call from Arianna in regard to the protection order. It’s been filled, so now it’s just a waiting game. In the meantime, I guess I will still be looking over my shoulders waiting for Spector to pounce out at me from nowhere. I inwardly groan when I realize it’s not just him I have to worry about anymore. I thought Spector was bad enough, but Alan is a different ballgame entirely. Jake was definitely right about me all those months ago.
I am a magnet for trouble.
Once back at work, I relieve Jessie for lunch and get back to compiling a graph for Jake, using statistical data of crimes in the area.
“Boy, these statistics really get me cross-eyed. Plus, I’m tired from all the cardio I did last night. I’m so glad I’m going home.” Jessie winks at me, and I know what cardio she’s referring to. “By the way, I’ve spoken to some of the gang here about next Saturday night, and a lot of them are really excited about the idea. I’m going to compile some numbers and give Jerry a call.”
I smile, glad for the distraction away from the mess I’m in with Alan. “Thanks for doing this, it sounds great. I can’t wait until we go. Do you know for certain whose coming?” We grab all our things and head outside.
“Yes, Tom and Michael said they would. James, Richard, David, Daniel, Charlie, Katie, Melissa. Erm ... Lucy and Mandy also said they would love to go. I’ve asked some others who need to get back to me.” When we get to the car, I’m grateful that I haven’t bumped in to Jake again. Avoiding him is definitely the best solution to my problems … considering my body just goes limp every time I’m around him.
As this runs through my head, so does the thought of Mandy in Florida. What I wouldn’t give right about now to escape for a week from all of this mess that’s been around me lately. Some say you shouldn’t try to escape, that you should face your fears.
I’d rather hide because I am certainly not ready to face mine just yet.
14
About an hour after I get home, I’m in the middle of cooking up some chicken for Jessie and myself when the doorbell rings. I hear Jessie answer, and a minute or so later, she comes in the kitchen with a massive bunch of sunflowers. I absolutely love sunflowers.
“I wonder who these are from.” Jessie knows exactly who they’re from because of the flowers from yesterday. “Am I going to need to go shopping for more vases?”
I take the flowers from her, smiling as I read the card.
My dearest, Ana.
Sunflowers mean adoration, and I adore you with all my heart. Please take me back, and I’ll promise to love you forever. I don’t care about the consequences. I just can’t bear to be without you.
Forever yours,
Jake
Damn you, Jake!
Jessie takes the card from me. While she’s busy reading it, I notice another envelope attached to the flowers. I reach my hand inside and open it. In the small envelope is a silver anklet, and dangling from it is a bunch of diamond stars. It’s simple, elegant, and beautiful.
“Man, he really is trying hard, isn’t he? They’re lovely.” She spots my saddened expression and places her hand on my shoulder.
“I think it’s time for a drink. Wine?”
I nod my head enthusiastically, sadness evaporated. “Oh, yes. Bring it on.”
We