Page 27 of Becoming

Eve shrugged. “It was the choice I made. One I have to live with until…” She cleared her throat, obviously not comfortable with where the conversation was going. “This thing you feel for Cassidy? Go home and explore it while you have a chance. While there are no other obstacles standing in your path. I understand your fears, Rebecca, more than anyone. But the ‘what-ifs’ will be even worse. I promise you that.”

From her peripheral, Rebecca saw the object of Eve’s happiness and sorrow. Judging by the not-so-happy look that was being directed at her, the fact that Rebecca was holding Eve’s hand was not appreciated. Rebecca squeezed the hand in hers before letting it go and standing up.

“Lainey,” Rebecca smiled, going in for a hug that was readily returned. She and Lainey had gotten to know each other much better over the past couple of years. The quiet woman was kind, intelligent, beautiful, talented… and married with children. She was also just as in love with Eve as Eve was with her. It made her situation feel tame in comparison.

“Hello, Rebecca.”

Lainey smiled warmly, though Rebecca could see the tension behind those green eyes.

“Please, take my seat. I was just leaving.”

“Not on my account, I hope.”

“Of course not,” Rebecca smiled at both of her friends. “I need to make arrangements to go back home. Of course, that means breaking the news to my aunt. She’s gotten pretty used to me being here.”

Lainey laughed as she took the seat Rebecca vacated. “You have your work cut out for you.” She absently picked up Eve’s tea and lifted it in a salute. “Here’s hoping she doesn’t bring out her notebook.”

Rebecca watched as Lainey sipped from Eve’s cup. She was sure it was as second nature to her as breathing. But Rebecca found something acutely intimate about the gesture.

“Take the jet,” Eve offered as she smiled at Lainey.

“It really is nice having a friend with a private plane,” Rebecca chuckled. Actually, it was an offer Rebecca rarely refused. Anytime she could fly in style was an enjoyable time. And, now I’m thinking about Cassidy being in that jet with me. Great.

“Yes, it is.”

Rebecca was sure Lainey’s thoughts of being in a private jet with Eve were along the lines of hers with Cassidy. She wished she could do something to help her friends. Unfortunately, she didn’t even know what to do to help herself.

“Thank you for the kick in the ass,” she said to Eve. Noticing Lainey’s confused look, she added, “I’m sure Eve will fill you in when I leave.”

“Only with your permission,” Eve assured.

“You have it.”

“Are you going to take my advice?”

Rebecca thought for a moment. “I don’t know. But, at least I’m taking the first step.”

Eve nodded her approval. “If you need anything, you know where to find me.” She laid her hand on the folder Rebecca had given her earlier. “Thank you for this and everything else you’ve done for Sumptor Galleries.”

“It’s been a welcome distraction. I’ll see you both in LA before the opening, I’m sure.”

“Absolutely. Good luck, Rebecca.”

REBECCA WALKED ALONG the sidewalk, occasionally stopping to look at the cute merchandise the outdoor marketers were hawking. It was the first time she had actually been out since moving back home two weeks ago. Yes, she knew full well that she was being a coward—again—but she couldn’t bring herself to go to the club just yet. Fear of not seeing Cassidy there was just as bad as the fear she would.

What would she say? How would she act? Would Cassidy even want anything to do with her anymore? Then there was the fact that Rebecca still didn’t feel worthy without the mask. As intelligent and successful as Rebecca was, she felt incredibly inept when it came to matters of the heart. Why do I feel this way about someone I barely know? What is it about Cassidy Giles that makes me want more?

Rebecca was so completely preoccupied with her thoughts that she didn’t see the other person coming right towards her. When they collided, Rebecca immediately began to apologize for being distracted.

“I’m so sorry, I wasn’t…”

“I’m sorry…” Rebecca gasped when she looked up into the bicolored eyes she had thought about so often. “Cassidy.” No! I’m not ready! Not like this! Not as Rebecca!

“M—um. You’re back.”

Cassidy looked as shocked as Rebecca felt. She probably hates me. “Y-yes.”

“How long?”