Chapter Twelve
Ryan hung the last rumpled shirt in the closet and stepped back to scan the room. Barney lay sprawled on the rug, twitching now and then in his sleep. Everything was neat without a single sign of the break-in left to greet Leah when she returned home. He’d spent the last five hours cleaning up the mess, only taking a break to pick up his repaired vehicle, and every minute was time well spent. She’d been a bundle of nerves the previous night until she’d fallen asleep on the couch out of sheer exhaustion. He’d covered her with an afghan and quietly left, taking her spare key with him.
A glance at his watch told him she’d be home anytime now. He’d hang around until then, maybe offer to take her out to dinner. After the fiasco the previous evening, they hadn’t had a chance to talk about where their relationship was headed. He’d made up his mind on the bike ride he needed to know what she was thinking, even if it turned out not to be what he wanted to hear. Like it or not, his emotions were firmly engaged, and he couldn’t let Leah blindside him again.
The crunch of tires on gravel in the driveway drew his attention as the dog scrambled to his feet. Ryan glanced out the bedroom window and smiled, then hurried down the stairs to the kitchen. Pushing open the screen door, he followed Barney into the carport and waited for Leah to step out of her Audi.
“Hey, what are you doing here?” She rubbed her dog’s ears before standing on her toes to plant a kiss on Ryan’s lips. “This is a nice surprise.”
“I thought I’d straighten up a little.” He took her face in his hands and kissed her back, taking his time.
“You didn’t have to do that.” She was breathless when he finally released her.
“I know, but I wanted to.”
“Well, thank you.” She walked beside him toward the back door, then stopped a few feet into the kitchen and turned in a circle. “Oh, my God, Ryan. You didn’t just pick up. You cleaned. I can practically see my reflection in the floor. The place hasn’t been this spotless since my mother moved out.”
“What’s the point in doing a half-assed job? The tile was still sticky from the tomatoes.”
She pressed a hand to her chest as she moved from room to room with him trailing behind her. Finally, she stopped next to her bed. “I don’t know what to say. Thank you seems so inadequate.”
“You don’t have to say anything. You’ve been under a lot of stress between your grandma’s problems and the break-in. I was happy to take on some of the load.”
“This . . .” Her voice broke as she leaned against his chest. “I wasn’t looking forward to dealing with the huge mess that cretin left. This means a lot. Thank you.”
He slid his arms around her. The light floral scent of her shampoo tickled his nose as he rested his cheek on her hair. “You’re welcome. How was your day?”
“Not so good at the bank. I sincerely doubt my grandma will recover her money. I spoke to my parents after school let out, and they’re as worried as I am. Gram may have to move back in with me since her retirement checks won’t cover her rent along with living expenses, and I don’t know that our family can make up the difference for more than a few months. It’ll be an adjustment for us both.”
He opened his mouth, then shut it and cleared his throat. “It’s early in the police investigation. Don’t give up hope.”
“I’m trying to stay positive, but it’s hard.”
He tightened his arms briefly before letting her go and changed the subject. “Did you share our time capsule with your class?”
“Oh, yeah. They got a huge kick out of all the treasures—and I use the term loosely—we buried. Which reminds me . . .” She glanced up. “Did you find a roll of film while you were cleaning? I remember taking it out of my little evening bag, but I can’t recall what I did with it.”
“I didn’t notice one anywhere.”
“Weird. Not that I haven’t misplaced things before.” She frowned. “I’m sure it’ll turn up somewhere.”
“Unless Barney buried it.” He glanced over at the dog, who lay beside the bed gnawing a ragged chew toy. “He was digging in the yard earlier.”
“Probably going after a gopher. They make him crazy.”
Ryan followed her down to the kitchen and leaned against the counter while she filled the kettle with water.
“Would you like a cup of tea?”
“I’ll pass.” He stuffed his hands in the pockets of his jeans. “Do you have anything going on this evening, or can I take you out to dinner?”
“Dinner out sounds lovely if we can go a little later. I have science reports to finish grading since I didn’t get them done this weekend.”
He pushed away from the counter. “Does seven thirty work? That gives you three hours.”
“Perfect.” She turned on the burner beneath the kettle, then crossed the room to meet him in the middle. “You’re unbelievably wonderful. I can’t imagine why some woman hasn’t snapped you up already.”
“A few have tried.” He grinned. “But then I’d do something stupid to turn them off.”
“Doubtful. They all must have been shy on brain cells. Kind of like I was. Hopefully, I’m smarter now.”
“I’d like to believe we’re both a little wiser.” He dropped a quick kiss on her upturned lips. “I’ll see you in a while.”
“I’ll be ready.”
He sincerely doubted the promise but realized he didn’t mind—not much, anyway. Tardiness probably wasn’t the worst flaw a person could have. As he climbed into his Jeep and backed up to turn around in the driveway, he gave Leah’s comments some hard consideration. What had he done to screw up his previous relationships? Expecting 100 percent compatibility and feeling disappointed when he didn’t find it probably didn’t say much for his intelligence. No one was perfect... or even perfect for him. He needed to remember that.
When he reached town, he swerved into a parking spot near Castaways. He’d have a beer and chill before going home to give his mom a hand with dinner, since it seemed like he’d been neglecting her lately, then shower and change for his date with Leah. Maybe if he made a conscious effort to relax more instead of being so uptight all the time, he wouldn’t blow it with her.
The rain from earlier in the day had stopped, but low-hanging fog swirled in the air. The thick dampness covered him like a blanket as he hurried down the sidewalk toward the bar. Giving himself a mental shake, he pulled open the door and glanced around. A few familiar faces stood out. Pete Brewster and George Dorsey sat at a table near the windows with a blond man whose back was to him. When he turned to signal the cocktail waitress, Ryan sucked in a breath.
What the hell is Leah’s ex doing back in town?
Ryan’s gaze locked with Brock Hooker’s. Blue eyes widened before he said something to his companions. Both their former classmates turned his way. Pete made a comment, and the other two burst out laughing.
“Ryan.”
He jerked his attention away from the trio when a hand touched his arm. Glancing over his shoulder, he smiled at Nina. “Hey, I didn’t expect to see you in here.”
“I’m meeting someone, but I’m a little early. Want to sit with me while I wait?”
“Better than joining that group.” He angled his head toward the three by the window.
“Oh, God. I wonder if Leah knows Brock is in town.”
“I’m pretty sure she doesn’t. At least she didn’t mention it earlier.” Taking Nina’s arm, he led her through the crowded room toward a table some distance from their old classmates, and nodded at Dr. Carlton and his wife as they passed. “Who’re you meeting?”
“A guy named Clayton Smith. You wouldn’t know him.”
He pulled out her chair. “I was kind of surprised you didn’t bring a date to the reunion.” He studied Nina’s classic beauty combined with modern chic as he took the seat opposite her. “Unless the men around here are all blind or something.”
“I don’t date much, but seeing you and Leah together. . .” She hunched a shoulder. “You both looked really happy. I figured I’d try again. So, when Clay asked me out, I agreed.” She glanced up as the cocktail server approached. “Hey, Janice. How’s it going?”
“Just great.” Fine lines crinkled around hazel eyes as she smiled. “What can I get you?”
“For now, I’ll have tonic water with lime. I need to pace myself.”
Ryan laughed. “Keep your wits about you?”
Expressive green eyes darkened. “It pays to be cautious.”
“Without a doubt.” He turned to their server. “I’ll take whatever import you have on draft.”
She nodded. “Be right back.”
He eyed Nina as she toyed with the strap on her purse. “You look nervous. I hope that isn’t my fault.”
She glanced up swiftly. “God, no. I’d much rather hang out with you all evening than go on this date.”
“Then why’d you tell the guy you would?”
“Because it’s been nearly five years, and I need to have a life again.”
His chest tightened at the pain in her voice, but he forced himself to ask, “Five years since what?”
“Since my fiancé died. Keith was killed in Afghanistan.”
His breath left him in a rush. “I didn’t know. I’m sorry.”
“Me, too.” She seemed to shake off the aura of sadness and squared her shoulders. “Leah told me about the break-in at her house when she picked up the time capsule this morning. I can’t believe something like that happened in Siren Cove. We don’t have much vandalism here, or any real crime, for that matter.”
“I talked to her when she got home from work.” He frowned. “The ordeal definitely disturbed her, but I helped her clean up the mess, and she seems to be bouncing back.”
“Smart man. The way to Leah’s heart is definitely through her vacuum cleaner—as long as she doesn’t have to use it.”
“Aren’t you funny?” He paused when the cocktail waitress returned with their drinks. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” Janice set his beer in front of him. “Let me know if you need anything else.” With a quick smile, she hurried off.
Nina sipped her drink. “Yeah, I’m a riot. Seriously, though, how are you and Leah getting along?”
“Pretty well. We seem to have picked up right where we left off, but I’m not exactly sure where we’re headed.”
She patted his arm. “You know Leah. Sometimes it takes her a while to recognize her feelings. She doesn’t make quick judgments the way you and I tend to do.” Nina drew back her hand. “At least that’s how you used to be.”
“I haven’t changed much.” He took a long pull on his beer. “Apparently Leah hasn’t, either.”
“Don’t push too hard. I honestly think you’d be great for her, but she might need a little time to figure that out. Especially when she has so much on her mind.”
“I guess we’ll see what happens.” He squirmed a little under Nina’s steady regard, feeling like his emotions had been laid bare. He ran a finger down the side of his sweating glass and changed the subject. “Leah mentioned her class enjoyed checking out our time capsule.”
“I bet. They probably thought the CDs and VHS tapes were antiques. All kids do now is download entertainment to their phones.” She leaned back in her chair. “Hey, tell Leah I want to see those pictures once she gets the film we found in the box developed. I assume the photos are shots taken of our class.”
“I will, but she misplaced the roll. She’ll have to find it again before she can get the film—” He broke off as Pete, George, and Brock stopped at their table. If their slightly glazed eyes were any indication, the threesome had been drinking for quite some time, despite the early hour.
Brock stared at Ryan as he brought his hand down on the back of Nina’s chair. His lips tightened when he leaned in close. “If you’re into Leah’s castoffs, babe, I wouldn’t mind getting in line.”
Nina shifted to avoid his touch. “Don’t be an ass, Brock. Does Leah know you’re in town?”
Pete crossed his arms over his chest and swayed a little. “Not yet, she doesn’t.”
Brock nodded. “I might head out to the house to see what she’s up to later.”
Blue eyes glittered beneath shaggy blond hair that gave him the same California surfer look Ryan remembered from high school. Based on the biceps pressing against the sleeves of his T-shirt, Leah’s ex spent the majority of his time in a gym.
His gut tightened. “Don’t waste your time. She’s having dinner with me tonight.”
Brock snorted. “Figures she’d take up with you again now that you’re such a big freaking success with Crossroads. Someone has to pay the bills, right?”
“God, you’re a jerk. I don’t know how Leah put up with you for as long as she did.” Nina didn’t raise her voice, but her tone sliced through the sudden stillness.
“Dude, maybe we should take off.” George nudged his pal, apparently the most sober of the three.
“Glad to.” Brock eyed Nina up and down. “You may be hot, but you’re still the same bitch who talked my wife into leaving me. Let’s get out of here.”
Ryan relaxed his clenched fist as the three men walked away. Letting out a slow breath, he met Nina’s troubled gaze. “I should have punched him.”
“No, you shouldn’t. He’d probably have you arrested.”
“Did you really convince Leah to divorce him?”
She shook her head. “No, of course not, but Brock is the kind of guy who has to blame someone for his problems. He doesn’t own them.” She glanced past him and frowned. “Damn, Clayton just walked in. I was going to call Leah to give her a heads-up, but—”
“Don’t worry. I’ll do it when I see her.”
“Thanks.” She pushed back her chair and stood. “Uh, can you tell Janice to transfer my drink tab—”
“I’ve got it.” He rose to his feet. “It was good talking to you, Nina.”
“Likewise.” She smiled. “You and Leah have a nice evening.”
“You, too. Give this guy a chance. You deserve happiness.”
Her eyes darkened, but she only nodded before striding away. Ryan finished his beer and signaled Janice for the bill, paid, and left the bar. He’d gone into Castaways to relax. An epic fail since seeing Brock had strung his nerves tighter than any noose. The man had implied Leah was only interested in him for his money.
Total bullshit.
He should have punched the asshole in his smug face. And damn the consequences.
* * *
He cruised along the dark highway, headed back toward town, headlights barely penetrating the thick fog, his cell clutched tight in his fist. “What do you mean she never sent the film off to be developed?”
“Exactly what I said.” The voice on the other end of the connection radiated irritation. “A reliable source overheard Ryan Alexander talking to Nina Hutton in Castaways. He mentioned Leah Grayson—who has become a real pain in our ass—misplaced it.”
“Well, the film roll sure as hell wasn’t anywhere inside her house. I took that place apart looking for it.”
“Then maybe she dropped the damn thing in her car.”
He forced himself to think. “Or it could be in that giant bag she hauls around everywhere she goes, even though she didn’t have it with her at the reunion.”
“You’d think the woman would have looked in her own purse.”
“Maybe, but I’ve been close enough to see the thing is full of crap. She could have missed seeing it when she searched through the clutter.”
“Then get ahold of her bag. Search her car. Do whatever’s necessary to get that damn film roll back. Got it?” The voice lashed out, striking a nerve.
The vein in his temple throbbed. “I’m getting a little tired of your attitude.”
“Then do something proactive for a change. Even I won’t be able to stop the shit storm if those photos come to light. And while we’re on the subject of brainless idiots, I hear your son has been working his magic a little too close to home lately. Aren’t you the one who harps about going further afield to choose our sacrifices so no one will come poking around? You’d think your innate caution would have rubbed off on your kid when it comes to his little side business, but no.”
“His little side business, as you put it, filled our coffers when we were running low on funds, so don’t shout at me.” He let out a slow breath. “However, I’ll speak to him about discretion.”
“See that you do. In the meantime, I’ll try to cover his ass.”
“Your efforts are in all our best interests.”
A grunt answered him.
He loosened his grip on the cell as his temper abated. “Has this year’s Samhain sacrifice been secured yet?”
“Apparently, the sure thing our brother promised fell through. I’m surrounded by imbeciles. I’ll try to get a lead on another one.”
“I’ll keep my eyes open, too. You never know when the perfect victim will present herself.”
“You do that, but your top priority is the damn roll of film.”
He stared into the dark night as his mind clicked over, sorting and rejecting scenarios. How hard could it be to get ahold of her bag? He gritted his teeth. “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it . . . and her.”