Chapter 5

"I need a mechanic, Bill." I say as I slide my purchases toward him. "The GTO needs an oil change and I can't get the bolt loose! I'm such a weakling!"

Bill, the manager of the general store laughs at my quip. "I heard there was a new mechanic in town. He said his name was Nick or something like that…I just sent John there a few minutes ago. You should check the guy out." He hands me a card with the man's name and address on it.

"I think I might. Thanks, Bill!" I finish my purchase and stroll out. I reach my car and finally look at the card. "No way…this can't be…"

I drive out to East End Road without thinking. I am stunned and at the same time in denial. "It can't be him, he would never leave his family!" I am nervous as I pull into the drive. I get out of my car and see John talking to him.

"I think you are following me, Bailey." John's face lights up.

I pay no attention. My gaze is locked with the one person I thought would never see again. He grins and crinkles his sky blue eyes in instant recognition. He takes a step towards me and I fly into his arms crying. "Nicolas! I knew it was you! I can't believe you are here! I have missed you so much." I cry into his shoulder uncontrollably as he holds me rocking slightly.

"Why did you leave with out a goodbye? I had to learn from Paul where you went to, and I just couldn't bear the thought of you up here all alone." Nick whispers into my hair.

"I'm sorry Nick, I never meant to leave without a word, and I was so hurt by the way Paul cast me aside. I didn't think to tell my parents either. I just packed and left without a word to very many people."

I look away and wipe my eyes. I look up to see John with the most hurt puppy dog look I have ever seen. He nods, turns away, and leaves without a word. I can't help but feel bad. For the moment though, I am going to catch up with my oldest and dearest friend!

After two hours of catching up with Nick, and him helping me change the oil in my car, I can't help but think of John. "You know Nick, I think I am going to find John. I think we need to have a long talk. You don't be a stranger; you call me whenever you want. I will be around. See you Saturday? Beluga Lake, 4-wheelers, and beer?"

"You bet, Bai. See you then!" Nick turns back to his work and I call John.

The phone rings and I jump. I look at the caller ID, and it is Bailey. I don't feel like talking to anyone, especially Bailey. "How could I have been so stupid? Of course someone that beautiful and charming would have a boyfriend." I down the last of my drink and pick up my phone.

"Bailey, I don't want to talk right now." I hang up the phone and turn to the bartender of Duggan's and ask for more Crown.

Bailey closes her cell with a loud clap and sighs. There are several places in town he could be and I could miss him if I don't get this right. I feel the need to make sure he's ok. That look he gave me at Nick's garage almost broke my heart. If I hadn't been so excited to see my old friend, I would have followed John and explained. I didn't, and now I have to fix this.

I think for a minute. There was music in the background. That narrows it down to a bar or his house. I have never been to his house, but I know better than anyone by now that from time to time he buries his troubles in a bottle. I also know he hates to be alone while drinking. I try Duggan's. His truck is out front. "Lucky you!" I sigh as I pull in to the space beside his car. Time to eat some crow…