[center][color=teal][h2]Jessamyn "Jess" Bailey[/h2][/color][/center]

There weren't many customers, or much paperwork. Which, for many people, Jess imagined would make for a nice relaxing morning. Not for her, though, as it meant there was little to keep her mind occupied. In between the few tasks she had, she browsed the internet for instructions on martial arts techniques. Reading about them wasn't the same as practicing, but it kept her distracted, and the information would hopefully be something she could apply.

The morning ticked by slowly, and when the clock finally read noon, Roxy asked about lunch. [color=teal]"Yep, sounds good,"[/color] Jess replied, shutting down the computer and following Roxy to the cafe. As always, she tried to ignore the men trailing them, but they were a constant reminder of the situation.

They stepped into the cafe's comforting atmosphere, one of rich coffee smells, friendliness, and relaxation. Or at least, it would have been a comfort if not for the worries plaguing both of them. No sooner had they ordered and sat down than Jess' phone pinged. The text she read brought mixed emotions, entirely her own.

She raised her eyes from the screen. [color=teal]"Hey so, Mom's asking if we'd be able to spend the weekend with her,"[/color] she explained. [color=teal]"Is that ok?"[/color] It meant Roxy wouldn't have to deal with her father, at least for this week, but it'd mean more secrets to keep under wraps. Surely her mom had spoken to Reginald by now, and Jess wondered what she must think of him - had he earned her trust, or had she figured out something was off?

Jess forced herself to focus on other subjects. If they spent the weekend away, it would be a good chance to put the bowl of questions to use.