Mystic Park (Finding Home 4)

Audra’s amused expression sobered into concern. “I’d heard the two of you had broken up.”

“I see you’re solidly planted among the grapevine.” Benita scowled. “Let’s see how you feel about it when it’s your private life making the rounds.”

“I knew you’d be upset that I heard the gossip about your breakup.” Audra settled back on her armchair. “That’s the reason I didn’t call to ask how you were doing. But how are you doing?”

Benita shrugged, looking away. “I’d asked Vaughn to move to L.A. with me. Again.”

“Vaughn doesn’t strike me as someone who’d ever leave Trinity Falls. He loves it here. It’s his home.”

“He won’t even give L.A. a chance.” Benita stood to pace the spacious living room. “He’s a brilliant musician. You’ve heard his work.”

“Yes, I have. He’s very talented.”

“And what is he doing with it?” Benita threw up her arms. “Wasting it in this obscure town in that unknown university.”

“He’s teaching the next generation of composers, musicians, and music teachers.” Audra’s tone had grown cool. “Or are you unaware of the benefits of music education? It’s linked to better reading, writing, and math skills, and to developing critical thinking, something you could use right about now.”

Benita gave Audra a considering look. “He could teach in L.A.”

“He wants to teach here.”

“He wants to do more than teach.” Benita paced toward the fireplace. “He’s written a musical.”

“I know.” There was a smile in Audra’s voice. “He asked for my input on the songs.”

He didn’t ask for my input.

Benita ignored the sting that felt like rejection. She turned to her friend and client. “What did you think?”

Audra spread her arms. “I loved all of his pieces. I wish I’d written them, especially ‘Forever Love.’”

Benita’s heart swelled as though Audra’s praise was directed at her. “I’m very proud of him.” An understatement. “But how much exposure will his work receive, being played in little Trinity Falls? Where’s he going to perform it, the university?”

“This town is his home. He loves it here.”

“Jack loves Trinity Falls, too.” Benita waved her arm toward the front door. “His family founded this town. But he was willing to leave it for you.”

“Don’t compare Jack and Vaughn.” Audra raised both hands. “It’s not fair. They’re two different people.”

Benita set her hands on her hips. “I just want to understand how he could claim to love me but not want to leave Trinity Falls for me.”

“The same way you say you’re in love with Vaughn but won’t return to Trinity Falls, which is your home.”

Benita glared at Audra before pacing away. “Whose side are you on?”

“You’re talking to the wrong person.” Audra was irritatingly reasonable. “I left Los Angeles for Trinity Falls, remember?”

“How could I forget that my only real friend in L.A. left me?” Benita crossed her arms as she directed her scowl at the fireplace.

“If Vaughn won’t relocate to Los Angeles for you, he’s never going to move.”

“You have a point, but where does that leave me?” Benita was suddenly exhausted.

“Move back to Trinity Falls.”

Benita turned on Audra. “How can you say that?”

“I’m your friend and I want what’s best for you. You belong in Trinity Falls.”