Secrets Left Neglected

Chapter 30

Nick

Emilia and I are enjoying a dish of chips when I hear Ruari and Caoilainn's voices travel out from the back room, behind the bar and off the kitchen. She's getting ready to meet Tadhg at the boards today. He's home on leave. They and most of the gang are getting together for an afternoon of fun. Emilia and I would be joining them, but today's my day at the hospital with Coda. If I'd of known sooner that Tadhg was coming home, I'd of had someone cover for me, but unfortunately, I couldn't get out of my shift today. I frown when I hear Caoilainn's tone. She sounds upset.

"I will, Ruari," she's groaning loudly. "I will."

"When, Caoi?" Ruari questions her relentlessly. "He's going back tomorrow. You have to tell him."

"I know, I know. It's just-" By the sound of the frustration in her voice, I visualize her rolling her eyes and throwing her hands up. "How do I do it? I mean, it's not something I can just blurt out. And we only have this short window of time together and-". She's yelling now and Emilia looks at me, mid-fry to her mouth.

"Caoilainn-" Ruari reprimands back. "You can't keep putting this off. You have to tell him."

"Argh."

I hear the sound of some kind of object hitting the wall followed by the slam of the club's employee bathroom door. I hope Ruari ducked in time to miss whatever projectile Caoilainn threw his way.

A few seconds later, Ruari makes an appearance at the bar and I call over to him. When he reaches my table, I lean in close and ask if everything is ok. Caoilainn is usually very quiet and reserved. I don't think I've ever heard her get so loud and violent.

Ruari runs a hand through his hair and sighs. He closes his eyes and nods his head.

"Yeah, it's fine," he sighs for the second time in five seconds. "Don't worry. She'll be ok. She just needs some time."

Before I can respond, Ruari walks back to the bar and pours himself a drink. He swallows it down in one gulp. If I didn't know any better, I'd say Ruari was just as torn up about whatever it is that has Caoilainn so upset. I haven't heard about anything going on so I have no idea what it could be. Judging by both of their behavior, though, it must be something big.

"Should I go check on her, Nick?" Emilia asks with concern. "See if she's ok?"

"Nah, she'll be alright, Emilia."

"Are you sure?" she continues. "Maybe she needs a woman to talk to."

"If it were anyone else," I explain. "I'd tell you to try. But, Caoilainn isn't like most women. She's very private. I don't think she'll tell you and your asking might even make her more upset, I explain.

"Thank you for offering, though. It means a lot."

"Anytime," she says patting my hand before picking up her drink for a sip. "Just let me know if you change your mind."