Page 141 of The Bartender Special

That relief in Benny’s chest was short-lived as he watched Jack’s jaw tense.

He shook his head.

“But you still built a life you love and it’s out there, waiting for you to come back.” Jack slid one foot back. “And I don't fit into it, Benny. We both know that. I might feel like every day now, but that doesn’t mean I’m forever either.”

Benny opened his mouth, ready to say something, but instead he was reminded about the horrible thing about small towns.

They were small.

Which meant someone was always right around the corner.

The doors to the lobby flung open.

Jack moved at the sound, creating more distance between them.

Callum was red-faced and panting. At his side, Marcus Robertson. The Golden Boy of Arbor Bay.

Benny gave his brother a look of confusion mixed with frustration.

Callum’s answer didn’t help.

“She—She must have locked the auditorium door,” he said, trying to catch his breath. “We had to use the back door and run around the—the damn building.”

“What?”

Marcus pointed to Benny. Then he tapped his ear.

“Carol didn't turn your mic off,” he growled out. “Everything you've been saying has been broadcasting back in the auditorium.”

Benny went cold.

“E-Everything?”

Marcus nodded. He was mad.

His twin must have been smiling in the other room.

Carol Fucking Robertson.

Benny fumbled for the microphone and earpiece.

Then, he caught himself.

He stared right back into Jack, hoping the man understood him.

Hoping he really had heard him.

“I don't want to hide anymore,” he said, resolute. “I just want you, Jack. Everything after that, we can figure out. Together.”

Cal and Marcus didn’t move.

Benny didn’t move.

The world around them didn’t move.

But, slowly, Jack finally started to.

It was just in the wrong direction.