25. Best Friend Day

CHAPTER 25

Best Friend Day

LIAM

J immy and I stood in the living room, the remnants of our breakfast still scattered across the table. Peanut was curled up on the couch, her little belly full and her eyes heavy with contentment.

It was a peaceful scene, a moment of calm and normality in the midst of all the chaos that had been swirling around me lately. But of course, Jimmy being Jimmy, he couldn't let it last for long.

"So," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he leaned against the kitchen counter. "That was Caleb, huh? Gotta say, your descriptions didn't do him justice. The man looks like he just stepped out of a Marlboro ad."

I rolled my eyes, trying to ignore the way my heart skipped a beat at the mention of Caleb. "It's not what you think," I said, my voice a little too defensive even to my own ears.

Jimmy raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching with amusement. "Oh? And what exactly am I thinking, Liam? Do tell."

I shot him a glare, but I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks. "You know what I mean. Don't start with your matchmaking nonsense."

"Matchmaking? Me?" Jimmy placed a hand over his heart in mock offense. "I would never. I'm just making an observation about your ruggedly handsome neighbor. Who, may I remind you, you have a complicated history with."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Jimmy, I appreciate you being here, I really do. But can we not do this? It's complicated."

"When is it not complicated with you two?" Jimmy chuckled, but there was a hint of concern behind his teasing tone. "Come on, spill. Has anything happened already? Any longing gazes across the fence? Accidental touches while fixing that rickety porch?"

"For God's sake, Jimmy," I groaned, but I couldn't help the small smile that tugged at my lips. As annoying as his prying could be, I had missed this. Missed him. "Nothing's happened. We're just figuring things out."

Jimmy waggled his eyebrows suggestively. "Figuring things out, eh? Is that what the kids are calling it these days?"

I threw a dish towel at him, which he deftly caught with a laugh. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"It's part of my charm," he grinned, tossing the towel back to me. "Seriously though, Liam. Are you okay? With Caleb being back and all?"

I hesitated, not sure how to answer. The truth was, I didn't know if I was okay. Seeing Caleb again, being near him stirred up a whirlwind of emotions I wasn't sure I was ready to face.

"I'm managing," I said finally, opting for honesty. "It's not easy, but I'm glad he's here. Even if it complicates things."

Jimmy nodded, his expression softening slightly. "Well, for what it's worth, I think it's good. You two have a lot of history to sort through, but maybe this is your chance to finally get some closure. Or who knows, maybe even a fresh start."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Speaking of my fancy new digs, want the grand tour? I've been working my ass off on this place, and I'm pretty damn proud of how it's turning out."

Jimmy's eyes lit up, his face breaking into a huge, excited smile. "Hell yes, I want the tour! Lead the way, my man. Show me what you've done with the place."

I felt a flicker of pride as I gestured for Jimmy to follow me. We started in the living room, where I'd refinished the original hardwood floors and painted the walls a warm, inviting shade of beige.

"Nice," Jimmy nodded approvingly, running his hand along the smooth surface of the newly installed fireplace mantel. "Very… rustic chic. Is that what they call it on those home renovation shows?"

I rolled my eyes. "I wouldn't know. Some of us have been too busy actually renovating to watch TV."

Jimmy grinned, unrepentant. "Hey, someone's got to keep up with the trends. Can't have you turning this place into some backwoods cabin, can we?"

We moved on to the kitchen, where gleaming stainless steel appliances stood in stark contrast to the vintage-inspired tile backsplash.

"Ooh, fancy," Jimmy whistled, opening and closing the soft-close cabinet doors with childlike glee. "I half expected to find a wood-burning stove and a butter churn in here."

"Ha ha," I deadpanned. "You know, if you're not impressed, you're welcome to eat at the diner for the rest of your stay."

Jimmy clutched his chest in mock horror. "You wouldn't dare deprive me of your culinary expertise. I've been dreaming about your pancakes for weeks."

As we climbed the stairs to the second floor, Jimmy's teasing continued. "So, where's the secret passage to the attic? Every old house needs a good mystery."

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Sorry to disappoint, but the only mystery up here is how I managed to get that king-sized bed frame up these narrow stairs."

We reached the guest room, and I pushed open the door with a flourish. "And here we have your luxurious accommodations for the duration of your stay. "

Jimmy stepped inside, his eyebrows rising as he took in the plush bedding, the artfully arranged throw pillows, and the vintage writing desk in the corner.

"Well, well, well," he said, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Look who's gone all Martha Stewart on us. I half expect to find chocolate mints on the pillow and a fruit basket on the nightstand."

I snorted. "Don't push your luck. The mint on the pillow costs extra."

Jimmy flopped onto the bed, spreading his arms wide. "I could get used to this. You sure you want me to leave? I make an excellent permanent house guest."

"And I'm sure you'd make an excellent freeloader," I retorted, grabbing a throw pillow and tossing it at his head. "But I think I'll pass."

Jimmy caught the pillow deftly, propping himself up on his elbows. "Your loss. So, what's next on the renovation agenda? A rooftop jacuzzi? A basement bowling alley?"

I leaned against the door frame, crossing my arms. "Actually, I was thinking about tackling the back porch next. Maybe add a nice deck, perfect for those summer barbecues."

"Ooh, getting ambitious, are we?" Jimmy waggled his eyebrows. "Planning on hosting some wild parties? Or maybe just some intimate gatherings with a certain ruggedly handsome neighbor?"

I felt my cheeks heat up, but I kept my voice steady. "The only wild party I'm planning is the one where I put you to work sanding and staining that deck."

Jimmy groaned dramatically, falling back onto the bed. "Manual labor? I thought this was supposed to be a vacation."

"Consider it payment for room and board," I said, unable to keep the grin off my face.

A sudden movement caught my eye. Peanut, who had been curled up on the couch, had apparently decided that she wanted to be part of the action .

With a soft meow and a graceful leap, she landed on the bed, her little paws sinking into the plush comforter.

"Well, hello there," Jimmy cooed, immediately smitten. He reached out to scratch behind her ears, and Peanut arched into his touch, purring like a little motor.

I couldn't help but smile, feeling a warmth bloom in my chest at the sight of my two favorite beings getting along so well.

But then Jimmy's expression shifted, his brow furrowing as he looked up at me. His eyes zeroed in on my face, taking in the bruises and the split lip that I had been trying so hard to ignore.

"Are you finally going to tell me what happened to your face?"

I sighed, feeling a familiar wave of shame and frustration wash over me. I didn't want to talk about it, didn't want to relive the humiliation and the anger of the previous night. But knowing Jimmy, he wouldn't stop until he gets some answers.

"I got into a fight at the bar last night," I admitted, my voice rough and reluctant. "Some assholes were running their mouths, saying some shit that I just couldn't let slide."

Jimmy's eyes widened, his expression a mix of worry and exasperation. "Jesus, Liam. You can't just go around picking fights with every bigot who looks at you sideways."

I shrugged, feeling a flare of defensiveness. "I know, I know. But sometimes… sometimes it's just too much, you know? The hate, the ignorance, the small-minded bullshit that people spew without even thinking twice."

He sighed, reaching out to squeeze my shoulder. "I get it, Liam. I do. But you have to be careful, okay? You're not invincible, and getting your ass kicked in some dive bar isn't going to change anyone's mind."

I knew he was right, knew that I had been reckless and stupid and so goddamn angry that I hadn't been thinking straight.

But I was tired. Tired of always having to be the bigger person, tired of turning the other cheek and pretending like the words and the slurs and the hatred didn't cut me to the bone.

"I'll try," I said finally, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll try to be more careful, to pick my battles. But I can't promise that I won't ever snap again, Jimmy. I'm only human, and sometimes… sometimes it's just too much."

He nodded, his expression softening with understanding. "I know, Liam. And I'm not asking you to be perfect, to never make a mistake or lose your cool. I'm just asking you to be smart, to think before you act."

I took a deep breath, feeling some of the tension drain out of my shoulders. "Okay," I said, managing a small, crooked smile. "I'll do my best."

Jimmy grinned, the seriousness of the moment evaporating like mist in the sun. "That's all any of us can do, my friend. Now, what do you say we take a little rest before we head to the diner for dinner? I don't know about you, but I could use a power nap after that breakfast."

I chuckled, feeling a rush of gratitude for his easy, uncomplicated friendship. "Sounds good to me. I'll just be in my music room, working on some music."

He raised an eyebrow, a knowing look in his eyes. "Ah, the creative process. I won't disturb you then. Just don't get too lost in it, okay? I know how you can be when you're in the zone."

I flipped him off, but I was grinning like an idiot. He knew me so well, knew the way that music could consume me, could pull me under like a riptide.

The old piano in the corner of the music room caught my eye, its worn keys a testament to years of use. Settling onto the bench, my fingers ghosted over the ivory, muscle memory taking over as a familiar melody began to form.

As the notes filled the air, my gaze drifted to the bookshelf nearby. Among the sheet music and old records, a faded photograph peeked out. Curious, I reached for it, and my breath caught in my throat. There we were, Caleb and me, barely out of our teens, grinning at the camera with our arms slung around each other's shoulders.

The sight of our younger selves, so carefree and full of hope, stirred something deep within. Memories flooded back – late-night jam sessions, dreams of making it big, the electric thrill of our first kiss. But with those sweet recollections came the bitter sting of what followed.

Turning back to the piano, my fingers found the keys once more. This time, a new melody emerged, raw and urgent. Words began to form, spilling out onto the page beside me. The song took shape, a story of lost love and second chances, of the weight of the past and the possibility of redemption.

Hours slipped by unnoticed as the music flowed. Each verse peeled back another layer, revealing truths I'd been too afraid to face. The anger, the hurt, the lingering love – it all poured out through the lyrics and melodies.

The song spoke of missed opportunities and roads not taken, but also of hope. Of the possibility that even after years apart, two hearts might find their way back to each other. It wasn't just about Caleb and me anymore, but about anyone who'd ever loved and lost, who'd ever dared to dream of a second chance.

As the final notes faded away, a sense of peace settled over me. The song wasn't finished – not by a long shot – but it felt like a breakthrough. For the first time in years, the music had flowed freely, uninhibited by fear or self-doubt.

So engrossed in the creative process, the outside world faded away. It wasn't until Jimmy's voice broke through the musical haze that reality came rushing back.

"Earth to Liam!" he called, poking his head into the room with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "I've been calling you for dinner for the past ten minutes. Should I be worried about your hearing?"

Blinking, I glanced at the clock and was shocked to see how much time had passed. "Sorry," I said, a sheepish grin spreading across my face. "Guess I got a little carried away. "

Jimmy's eyes softened as he took in the scattered papers and the open piano. "Looks like the muse paid a visit," he said, his tone gentler now. "Care to share what's got you so inspired?"

For a moment, I hesitated. The song felt raw, vulnerable – a piece of my soul laid bare. But looking at Jimmy's expectant face, I realized that maybe it was time to let someone else in.

"Actually," I said, surprising myself with the words, "I'd love to play it for you. If you're willing to listen, that is."

Jimmy's face lit up with a genuine smile. "Are you kidding? I thought you'd never ask. Let's hear it, rockstar."

As I settled back onto the piano bench, Jimmy pulled up a chair, his expression a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Taking a deep breath, I let my fingers hover over the keys for a moment before diving in.

The opening notes rang out, soft and melancholic. As I began to sing, my voice was hesitant at first, but grew stronger with each line. The lyrics spilled out, telling a story of lost time, missed opportunities, and the ache of unresolved feelings.

Jimmy listened intently, his usual jovial expression replaced by one of deep concentration. As the song built to its crescendo, I could feel the emotions I'd poured into it filling the room. The final chorus spoke of hope, of the possibility of redemption and second chances.

As the last note faded away, there was a moment of profound silence. I kept my eyes on the keys, almost afraid to look up and see Jimmy's reaction.

Finally, he cleared his throat. "Wow, Liam. That was… intense. In a good way, I mean. It's been a while since I've heard you sing like that."

I glanced up, meeting his gaze. "Yeah, well, it's been a while since I've felt like singing like that."

Jimmy nodded, his eyes searching my face. "It's about Caleb, isn't it?"

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Is it that obvious? "

"Only to someone who knows you as well as I do," Jimmy replied with a small smile. "It's good, though. Really good. Have you thought about recording it?"

The idea caught me off guard. "Recording? I don't know, Jimmy. It's pretty personal…"

"Exactly," he said, leaning forward. "That's what makes it powerful. Look, I know you came here to get away from the music scene, but maybe this is the universe's way of telling you it's time to get back in the game."

I felt a flutter of anxiety at the thought. "I don't know if I'm ready for that."

Jimmy's expression softened. "Nobody's saying you have to release an album tomorrow. But maybe think about it? This could be the start of something new, Liam. A way to process everything you've been through and create something beautiful out of it."

As I mulled over his words, I realized he might have a point. The song had come from a place of raw honesty, a place I hadn't allowed myself to visit in years. Maybe it was time to stop running from my past and start using it to fuel my future.

"I'll think about it," I said finally, surprised to find I actually meant it.

"As much as I hate to interrupt the creative process, we should probably head to the diner. I'm starving."

I nodded, realizing I was pretty hungry myself. "Alright, let's go."

The drive to The Grove was short and familiar, the streets of Oakwood passing by in a blur of memories and nostalgia. I couldn't help but feel a sense of deja vu as we pulled into the parking lot, the neon sign flickering in the twilight like a beacon.

As we walked inside, the smell of burgers and fries and apple pie washed over me like a warm hug. It was comforting, a reminder of simpler times and easier days.

Sarah was behind the counter, her blonde hair pulled back in a ponytail and her face breaking into a huge grin as she saw me. "Liam! It's so good to see you! "

I smiled back, genuinely happy to see her. "Hey, Sarah. It's been too long."

She came around the counter and pulled me into a hug. As she stepped back, she gestured to Jimmy. "And who's this?"

"This is my best friend, Jimmy. He's visiting from New York. Jimmy, this is Sarah. We went to high school together."

Sarah shook Jimmy's hand, her smile warm and welcoming. "It's great to meet you, Jimmy. Any friend of Liam's is a friend of mine."

She led us to a corner booth, the same one that Caleb and I used to claim as our own back in high school. The thought made my heart clench, a bittersweet ache that I couldn't quite shake.

As we slid into the booth, Sarah handed us menus. "I'll give you guys a few minutes to decide. Holler if you need anything!" She shot me a meaningful look. "And Liam, don't be a stranger, okay? You need to stop by more often."

I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "I will, Sarah. Promise."

As she walked away, Jimmy leaned forward, curious. "So, what's the story there?"

I shrugged, picking up a menu and studying it like it held the secrets of the universe. "Not much to tell, really. We were in a band together back in high school. Me, Sarah, Caleb, and Mark. We used to play gigs all over town, dreaming of making it big someday."

Jimmy's eyes widened, his face breaking into a huge grin. "No shit? Liam Denison, high school rock star. I never would have guessed."

I chuckled, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck. "Yeah, well. We weren't exactly headlining a massive concert or anything. But we had fun, and we made some great memories."

Sarah came back with our drinks, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Some great memories, huh? Like the time Mark accidentally set his drum kit on fire during the homecoming dance?"

I groaned, burying my face in my hands. "Oh god, I forgot about that. The sprinklers went off and everything, it was a total disaster."

Jimmy laughed, taking a sip of his Coke. "Man, I would have paid good money to see that. You guys must have been quite the wild bunch."

I shrugged, feeling a pang of nostalgia. "We had our moments. But mostly, we were just a bunch of kids who loved music and loved hanging out together. It was a simpler time, you know?"

Sarah nodded, her expression turning wistful. "It really was. Sometimes I miss those days, miss the way everything felt so big and important and full of possibility."

I knew exactly what she meant. There was a magic to those years, a sense of endless potential and boundless dreams. Before life had a chance to beat us down, before reality set in and the world got so much more complicated.

Our food arrived, and conversation turned to lighter topics. Jimmy regaled Sarah with stories of our adventures in the city, the crazy gigs and wild parties and all-night writing sessions fueled by coffee and adrenaline.

But even as we laughed and joked and reminisced, I could sense an undercurrent of tension in Jimmy's voice. A hint of worry, of concern that he was trying hard to hide.

"I just hope no vultures followed me here," he said at one point, his eyes darting around the diner like he was expecting paparazzi to burst through the doors at any moment. "The last thing you need is the press hounding you while you're trying to lay low and recharge."

I sighed, feeling a twinge of guilt. I knew my sudden disappearance from the public eye had caused a stir, had set tongues wagging and rumors flying.

"It'll be fine, Jimmy," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "Oakwood Grove is a small town, and people here know how to mind their own business. Besides, I'm not planning on making any public appearances or anything. I just want to focus on my music, on getting my head straight. "

Jimmy nodded, but I could see the skepticism in his eyes. He knew better than anyone how relentless the media could be, how far they would go to get a scoop or a scandal.

But before he could say anything else, the bell above the diner door jingled. I glanced up out of habit, my heart stuttering in my chest as I saw who had walked in.

Jake. Fucking Jake Thompson, in the flesh.

He looked different than the last time I had seen him, more mature and filled out. The baby fat had melted away from his face, leaving behind chiseled features and a strong jaw. His hair was shorter, neater, and he wore a crisp uniform shirt that stretched across his broad shoulders.

But his eyes were the same. That piercing blue, that hint of mischief and danger that had always made my stomach flip and my pulse race.

He caught my gaze from across the room, and I saw a flicker of recognition, of surprise. And then he was walking towards us, his steps sure and steady.

"Liam," he said as he reached our booth, his voice low and smooth. "Fancy seeing you here."

I felt my hackles rise, my defenses slamming into place. "Jake. What are you doing here?"

He shrugged, a hint of a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Can't a man eat at a diner anymore? I was just passing by, saw your car out front. Wanted to make sure you were okay, after last night and all."

I gritted my teeth, feeling a flush of shame and anger wash over me. Of course he would bring that up, would throw my moment of weakness back in my face.

"I'm fine," I said shortly, my voice clipped and cold. "Thanks for your concern, but it's not necessary."

Jake held up his hands, his expression turning serious. "Hey, I didn't mean anything by it. I was just worried about you, that's all. Those guys were out of line, and I wanted to make sure they didn't do any lasting damage." He turned to Jimmy, holding out his hand. "I'm Jake, by the way. Old friend of Liam's."

Jimmy shook his hand, but I could see the wariness in his eyes. He knew something was up.

I softened slightly, feeling a twinge of guilt. Jake had always been like that, had always had a way of getting under my skin and pushing my buttons. But he had also always been there for me, even when I didn't want him to be.

"I appreciate that," I said finally, my voice grudging. "But I can take care of myself, Jake. I don't need you swooping in to save the day every time I get in a scrape."

He nodded, his eyes searching mine. "I know that, Liam. Believe me, I know. But sometimes… sometimes it's okay to let other people help, you know? To lean on your friends when things get tough."

I gritted my teeth, embarrassed that he was bringing this up in front of Jimmy. "I'm fine," I said shortly. "Thanks for your concern."

Jake nodded, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Well, I better get going. Enjoy your dinner."

With that, he turned and walked away. I watched him go, my jaw clenched and my appetite gone.

Jimmy was staring at me, looking like he was ready to jump out of the booth and go after Jake. "What the hell was that about?" he demanded. "Who is that guy?"

I sighed, pushing my plate away. "That was Jake. And don't worry about him."