For the first time in so long, I feel good. This was a good idea.
Out of paranoia, I glance around, searching for a man who no longer lives here, thankfully. I sort of stalked his Facebook once I found out he had an account. He left Hayden five years ago, and his social media was shut down after that. I don’t even know where he went or what he did. I’m just glad he doesn’t live here. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have come back.
At least that’s what I’m telling myself.
No, no. It’s true.
As soon as I walk in, I’m greeted by a very blonde, leggy, gorgeous girl who is wearing a set of cutoff shorts that look much better on her than me. She’s model thin and showing off just a peek of her stomach.
I subconsciously tug at my shirt, making sure none of my less-than-perfect skin is showing like her firm, flawless skin is.
“Hi, you must be Ms. Dalton, right?” the girl asks in her thick southern drawl that only adds to her charm.
“You must be Whitney West. No wonder Chuck said guys would be pouring in off the streets when they got a look at who was running the floor,” I tell her, smiling when she blushes. “And call me Mika. Everyone else does.”
She sticks out her hand and I shake it, as she adds, “Everyone just calls me Whit.”
Before I can say anything else, Chuck rounds the corner, smiling wide as he takes me in. “You’re here! You’re really here!” he exclaims excitedly.
He’s the short, bald, older, sweet guy I’ve spent months talking to over the phone about this endeavor. Even though he has no clue I used to visit Hayden every summer, he does know I’m familiar with the area. I only wish I had bothered to get to know more locals during my visit, instead of spending every waking moment with—
Nope. Not going to do that. Chase James is a thing of the past, and it’s pointless to dwell on what never was. I can handle this. That was what I told myself before starting this entire endeavor, and I need to keep it as my mantra.
“So happy to finally meet you in person,” I tell Chuck, then gasp when he grabs me in a bear hug and squeezes the hell out of me like I’m his long lost daughter or sister.
Whit grins broadly while leaning against the counter, and I suck in a much-needed breath when Chuck releases me. Physical contact isn’t allowed, so I’m not used to it. Needless to say, my entire body is rigid right now from the shock of feeling an embrace.
It’s not a big deal. As long as he doesn’t make a habit of it.
He’s so short that I have to look down to see him, and he’s grinning up at me.
“This is the best thing this town has had happen to it since the carnival opened up five years ago and saved us from slowly fading into nothing. This place is incredible, and the bar will definitely be a large draw. You’ve done amazing,” he praises, his eyes oozing excitement and sincerity.
Looking around, a slow smile curls my lips. The lanes are pristine, beautiful, and ready to be played on. The arcade near the back is stocked with all the basics for teens and adults to enjoy. The bar is gorgeous and wide, making sure to allow plenty of room for people to pop in, place an order, and return to their lanes with their friends, while they wait on someone to serve their drinks to them.
All in all, it’s exactly like Hunter promised it would be. I love him for handling the renovations on this place, even though it was extremely out of his comfort zone. This renovation, unlike the one he’s doing on my house, I did pay for. I paid him damn well, even though he didn’t want me to actually pay him since he didn’t technically do the difficult task of designing. He also never came down here to handle it personally.
However, he’s the one who tracked down everything on my list and found a way to make it work via phone calls with contractors and workers. I’m glad he’s finally going to get to see his handiwork in person.
“Can I ask what made you buy this old run-down bowling alley and breathe new life into it?” Whit asks.
She’s my floor manager. She’s in charge of handling any issues that arise out here, while also keeping tabs on the employees. Chuck is my office manager, in charge of payroll, balancing the books, scheduling, hiring and so much more.
Her question hits a spot inside me that I don’t want to be opened up.
“Just trying to get some closure,” I say quietly, marveling at the amazing transformation. Hunter should have been paid more.
“This is the most productive, healthiest way to seek closure, Mika. Do you understand? You could become legendary if we can fix you. The scientific and psychological community would be in awe of your abilities to cope with the damage your mind has sustained. You’re already making progress no one ever expected. We don’t have to sedate you as often anymore. In another five years, who knows how normally you’ll be able to function.”
Normal… I just want to be normal again. It’s all I want.
“I’ll do whatever it takes,” I say around a choked sob, giving up the fight against the restraints. “Whatever it takes.”