“That was the best dinner I’ve had in months,” Vivian said with a satisfied sigh. The long wooden tables had held platters piled high with juicy roasted pork, more sliced oranges, and bowls of a simple macaroni salad. “Did Haley really shoot one of those pigs?”
“Yes she did,” John said. “She keeps this up and she’ll be a very valuable member of someone’s team.” The inference wasn’t lost on Hank though he said nothing. “How about a nightcap?”
Although alcohol wasn’t common in the FEMA camps, John and Hank both enjoyed a shot at the end of the day and it was another one of those restrictions that Hank was loose on, as long it didn’t interfere with John’s productivity.
“Count me in,” Vivian said when they approached John’s motorhome.
The three friends sat around the table chatting, sipping a shot of bourbon, and discussing the events of the day and upcoming possibilities.
“The first of your new team and some equipment should be arriving in the next day or two, Vivian. You’ll have lots to do getting everyone settled and in place,” Hank said. “Once they’re here, we’re going to pack up and head west. From what I’ve been able to glean, it’s a mess out there, worse than here.”
“You’re leaving so soon?” Vivian said in dismay.
“There’s no real reason for us to stay any longer. With your new crew here, you won’t be alone. I’m pleased headquarters has let you retain your position, however, they are also adamant about us moving on.” Hank downed the last sip in his glass and stood. “Time for me to get some sleep. See you both in the morning. I hear it’s pork sandwiches for breakfast.”
He chuckled on the way out.
Vivian stood to leave. “I guess I should take that as my cue to leave too.” Instinctively, John’s manners kicked in and he stood also.
“I’m sorry we won’t get to know each other better,” she said. The longing in her eyes was unmistakable and she moved to John for a hug.
John closed his eyes and remembered how Allexa felt in his arms during their post-massage hugs. His arms responded to the memories and tightened slightly around Vivian. She sighed and pressed her body against his. After a moment, she slowly pulled her face away from his neck and brushed her lips across his.
***
Haley left the group of younger admirers to seek out John. She stopped a few feet from his trailer and saw them through the glass window of the door. She turned and ran, hot, jealous tears streaming down her flushed cheeks.
He’s MINE! she screamed inside her head.
***
John’s mind was still focused on Allexa and he briefly returned the kiss with the passion he’d kept suppressed, fueling Vivian’s advances, then abruptly pushed her away, holding her at arms’ length.
“John, what’s wrong?” she asked softly.
“This is wrong.”
“It didn’t feel wrong a moment ago.” She smiled at him and tried to move closer.
“No.” He brushed past her to the door and opened it. “Leave, Vivian. Now.”
“But—”
“Get out!” Guilt and anger were fighting for control of John’s heart.