Staying on Course (Finding our Way 2)

Dad’s face visibly relaxes. “I know. I may not understand why two people would choose to get married and live apart for two years, but I do know Bryce loves you.”

“It’ll be fine, Daddy. You’ll see.”

“Your mom keeps telling me the same, but I have to say one thing. You ever need me, Devon, you call me. I may be protective and a bit old-fashioned, but I’m still here for you. I saw the way you reacted to Liza’s call, and without too much information, I get the feeling she’s a wild card.”

“What aren’t you telling me? What do you know?”

“Nothing. I know nothing, but I’ve spent my life observing people. Without knowing her personally, she strikes me as sneaky and determined. I have no doubt Bryce would sever any ties if she forced his hand. He wants you happy. She, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to see his loyalty.”

“What should I do, Dad? They work together. I hope I made my point clear about their relationship outside of work.”

“You shouldn’t do anything, but if you need to talk, you call me.”

I nod slowly, hating the direction the conversation has taken.

“Now that the heavy stuff is out of the way, let’s talk about the wedding. Give me the most non-sissified, least detailed version possible. I don’t care about colors and shit. I care about food, drinks, dancing, and where my baby girl will spend her honeymoon.”

He claps his hands together and looks at me with nothing but love. I let go of the heaviness and tell him all we have planned.

By the time he drops me off at the hotel with the team, I’ve forgotten my earlier anxiety. But one thing is for certain; this has become obnoxious. I’m done holding

back at the risk of sounding jealous. It’s time Bryce knows exactly why I feel the way I do when it comes to Liza.

Chapter 26

“So what’s the plan tonight?” I ask Nate when I jump in his truck.

He looks at me sheepishly and then pulls away from the curb, remaining quiet.

“Uh oh, what’s the silence for? Did you mess up and let it slip I am here?” I hope to God the answer is no.

“Nope.” He gives me a one word response.

“So why so quiet?”

He turns on his blinker, reaches for the radio, and does everything possible to avoid my question.

“Nate, what’s going on?”

He blows out a breath and looks at me, blushing. “I don’t know what your plans are, but I have a date.”

“You do?” I squeal. “With who?”

“Her name’s Jamie.”

“Why are you being so vague? I’m not going to ask you anything embarrassing.”

He gives me a questioning look. “Number one, this is new, and I’ve kept it quiet. Number two, you can be like a dog with a bone when you want to know something. I’d like to keep this to myself until I figure out if it’s going to stick, especially from Mom.”

“I can keep my mouth shut, but can I know more than her name?”

“Really? You expect me to believe you? Mouth of the south and shares everything with Quinn Jackson, who’s equally as big-mouthed? No way. “

“Come on, Nate. I promise. Sibling code. I’ll keep my large mouth shut. Tell me, is she also in the Navy?”

He studies my face and then rolls his eyes. “Don’t make me regret this, Dev. I’m serious. I’ve done a good job keeping her from everyone so far.”

“PROMISE! Now spill.”