He huffs a laugh, his head ducked to spare a glance at Sherry’s hand in his own. “Sounds like you’re promising to visit at my retirement home.”
But all the same his fingers curl in, squeezing. Jake doesn’t remember when contact like this started feeling comfortable, but it is what it is– Sherry’s hand is warm in his own, and Jake doesn’t want to let her go.
Her flight’s in a few minutes though, and all good things come to an end eventually.
“I should figure out a visa,” he muses, legs spreading on the uncomfortable plastic chair to knock his knee against Sherry’s. “Go out and see big ol’ America myself.
“Only ever seen it from the Mexican side at the border. Which ain’t much of a view, honestly.”
“Yeah well, I could be your tour guide. Just keep in contact with me?” Her voice almost sounded desperate and the look in her eyes didn’t hide it. All Sherry wanted was to stay with Jake, but her job is never done and it never will be.
“If you do ever visit... Just know that you’ll always have a place to stay.”
Sherry knew it wouldn’t be as comfortable considering she wasn’t completely free from the governments grasp, but it was the least she could do for all he has done for her. A sense of normality was something she craved and she thought Jake could bring that to her. His touch alone made her feel safe.
The loud intercom announced her flight landing and the dread finally had settled in. “Jake... Are you sure you can’t come with me?” The words came out shaky and distressed, something she hasn’t heard from her mouth since 1998.