Fuck that train of thought. It didn’t sit well at all. I headed for the fridge for the first of what would more than likely be too many beers.
Bliss York
ALL AFTERNOON ELI had acted weird. Like he was nervous or anxious or jumpy. By the time we needed to leave for Jilly’s third birthday party he’d barely said five words. We had to go to his grandparent’s house. I wasn’t looking forward to the trip. I wanted to ask him what was wrong. But asking would make us late and he didn’t need to be late.
Jilly was Eli’s cousin. Jilly was the youngest in their group. It was fun having a little one around. Once I thought they’d never stop coming. Then as time went on we all grew up and our parents stopped reproducing.
Larissa’s pregnancy had been exciting even after the father ran off. We all supported and assisted, came together as a group and the child was well loved in his absence.
“What did you get her?” I asked. I was trying to make him talk, although I doubted I would be successful.
“Spiderman water gun.”
That sounded odd for a three-year old girl. But not for Jilly, she would love it. She was a huge Spiderman fan. The birthday party invitations were Spiderman themed and I expected the party would be.
“You?” he asked.
“An art set.”
“She’ll love that.”
“I thought so too when I bought it last week.”
We headed for the door with our presents in hand. I decided to ask him what was wrong. I’d make sure we weren’t late. But I couldn’t go all evening without knowing why Eli was upset. Something was bothering him.
“Spill,” I demanded, placing my hand on the door, to keep him from walking outside.
He tried to frown in confusion, arching his brows, like he didn’t know what I meant. He failed but tried anyway. “What? Spill what? I’m confused.”
I rolled my eyes. He sucked at this. “You know what. You’re upset about something or there’s a contract on your life by a drug cartel or the mob. I seriously doubt it’s the last one. You don’t even take painkillers. I wouldn’t think you’re into the blow.”
He sighed and looked at me. His expression said “I don’t want to tell” but he would or I’d become angry.
“Nate’s grandfather lives in the building.”
That was it? He was upset over that? Eli could be as dramatic as a female at times, so I responded “and . . . uh . . . so what?”
He shrugged. “I just don’t want you running into him more often than you should.”
There he was, worrying again. Like he always had and would. “Eli, I told you, I’m a big girl. Stop it with the hovering and concern. I am fine with Nate. I see him at work. I’m employed by his fiancé.”
Eli didn’t look convinced. Definitely not relieved. I opened the door before I lost my temper and fussed at him some more. He was way too overprotective. It was a waste of my breath I decided.
We stepped out of the condo and headed for the stairs. I wanted to say more, but I kept my mouth shut, because changing the subject was better. “Did you bring a swimsuit?” I asked him. Mine was under my sundress. Eli’s grandparents had a beautiful pool on the beach and this was a swimming party.
He nodded. “Yeah.”
He was still being moody. Seriously?
“Eli, what is your deal? I should be the one acting pissy. You’re just being ridiculous.”
We’d just gotten to the bottom of the stairs when Nate came into view. He was walking toward the parking lot. I paused and his gaze found us both. He went from Eli to me then stopped. Like he was waiting on something to happen.
“We’re going to be late,” Eli said, taking my arm and moving forward.
“No, we aren’t.” I argued.
“We are if you stop and talk.”
“I was only going to be polite.”
“He doesn’t need polite. Doesn’t fucking deserve it.”
I jerked my arm loose from Eli. “What is your problem? Are you mad at him because he doesn’t remember me? Eli, let that go. It was a long time back. I was a kid. I’ve changed. So has he.”
I turned my attention back to Nate. He was watching us like a hawk. Like he expected something to explode. I got the feeling there was more to this than I realized was currently happening. Had they talked today? Had words? Did Eli say something he shouldn’t?
“What’s going on?” I asked Eli in a whisper. Yes, something had occurred.
He glared at Nate. “Nothing. Not a thing.”
“Eli,” I warned, “something’s going on.” He knew I’d discover the truth. No reason to hide it now.
“Why don’t you ask him?” His tone was full of anger as he continued glaring. Eli then walked off, leaving me there with Nate. I watched as he stalked towards the car, completely baffled at his behavior.