CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

 

 

 

“I am so sorry,” Seren hugged Avery. “I should have been here to put out the fire.”

“Are you kidding me?” Avery exclaimed, waving her hand toward the club. “Hardbodies is untouched. Believe me, this could have been much worse – you could’ve been injured.”

“Still…it was my responsibility.” Seren looked at the charred shambles of the trailer. Now, she really had nothing. All of her clothes and even the money she’d saved – all of it was gone. Glancing up at the smoke-filled sky, Seren wondered if Gregori was sending her another message, telling her in an indisputable way that it was time to pull up stakes and leave. Move away from Canyon, from all she held dear. “I don’t know how the fire started, but maybe I could’ve prevented it.”

“Nonsense,” Isaac muttered, having overheard her comment. “The trailer was old. There’s no telling what might have happened. Besides, the insurance money I’ll receive will be more than that hunk of junk trailer was worth.” He glanced around. “Actually, it will look a helluva lot better back here without it.”

Avery looked concerned. “But what about you, Seren?” She rubbed her forehead, deep in thought. “You could stay in our quarters in the club until…”

“That’s not necessary.” Seren placed her hand on Avery’s arm in gratitude.

“No, it’s not necessary,” Canyon agreed, stepping from behind Seren. “She has a place to go.”

“Oh, really?” Avery smiled as Seren blushed.

“Canyon is being kind,” she muttered. And hardheaded.

“Excellent.” Avery leaned in. “Have him read one of my books.”

“Oh, my goodness.” She covered her cheeks with her hands. With any luck, Avery would think the heat in her face was a result of the idea of Canyon reading hot sex scenes and not the sight of his glistening muscles as he peeled off his sweat soaked shirt. 

“McCoy! Brady!”

The sound of a man’s voice drew their attention. Sheriff Kane Saucier was making his way through the remaining firemen who were rolling up hoses and climbing back on their trucks.

“Kane.” Isaac waved his friend over. “What’s the word?”

“The fire marshal says its arson. They found accelerant in the debris. Gasoline. Any idea who might have done this?”

“Diego Valencia.” Canyon stated the name with sure certainty. “He’s been harassing Seren.”

“Well, why is this the first I’m hearing of it?” Sheriff Saucier asked dryly.

“Yea, I’m wondering the same thing,” Isaac commented with a possessive hand on Avery’s shoulder.

Canyon sighed and nodded at Isaac. “I intended to talk to you tomorrow. I had no idea it would escalate to this degree.”

“It’s my fault,” Seren spoke up, stepping forward. “I asked Canyon not to say anything. I was stupid.” She shook her head. “I just never thought he’d go this far.”

“Why don’t you tell me what’s been going on,” Kane Saucier directed gently.

“After serving him drinks, he told me he’d eventually get me alone. A few days later he cornered me in the hall.”

“I interrupted that little encounter,” Canyon added, “told him he would have to go through me. I’ve been watching out for her ever since.”

“Has he been back to bother you?” Kane asked.

Canyon answered for her, “We’ve seen Diego on the premises. Not getting out of his truck, just lurking.”

“Well, this is a public place,” the Sheriff muttered, “but I could’ve scheduled some cars to do a check every few hours if I’d known.”

Pointing up at the corner of the club, Isaac grinned. “I have cameras. I don’t know if they’ll catch him lighting the fire, but we might be able to put him at the scene.”

As Kane and Isaac walked over to check the cameras, Seren let out a long breath. “I guess this is about over, thank goodness.”

“It’ll be over when that bastard is behind bars.” Canyon looked into the distance, watching the traffic, wondering if the night shielded the criminal returning to the scene of the crime.

“That’s what I meant.” Seren hugged herself, feeling chilled despite the heat still emanating from the burned-out trailer.

Avery noticed her action and read the reason. “Don’t leave before I get back.” She took off for the inside of the club.

As soon as she walked away, Canyon came closer to Seren. “You need to rest. I’ll take you home in just a few minutes.”

“Okay.” Seren was literally too tired to argue. Tomorrow, she’d figure everything out. “I just don’t understand. Why would someone do this?”

“Because he’s fuckin’ crazy, that’s why.” He placed a protective hand on the small of her back. “Don’t worry. You’re not alone.” Facing her, he placed his thumb beneath her chin, tilting Seren’s face up to his. “You’ve had my full attention from the moment I heard your voice asking me what was my pleasure.”

Seren felt her cheeks grow hot, but she was saved from responding when the Sheriff began to call her name, “Ms. Whitewing?”

“Yes.” She turned to greet him, remembering the day he’d come to her rescue after being hit by the car in the parking lot. “Did you find something on the camera?”

“I did. I’ll need you to come in tomorrow to make a statement. From what I saw on Isaac’s surveillance system, I have enough to put out a warrant for Valencia’s arrest.”

“Okay.” Seren nodded. “I’ll be there.”

“I’ll bring her in first thing in the morning,” Canyon promised.

About that time, Avery returned with a bag. “I packed some things for you.” She placed a blue jean jacket around Seren’s shoulders. “Now, you won’t be so cold.”

“Thank you, Avery.” Her voice broke a bit. “Seems like I’m always having to take a hand-out. And again, I’m so sorry. If you’d rather I turn in my resignation now…”

“Hush up, girl.” She shook a finger at Seren and gave Canyon a wink. “That is not the way we do things around here. I need you tomorrow. We’ve got to get ready for Halloween. There’s decorating to be done!” A buzz from her cell phone drew Avery’s attention. “Canyon, tell Isaac I have to go pick up David from Jacob’s. Jessie says little Bowie has a fever and she’s taking him to the clinic.” A worried look came over Avery’s face. “I hate it when one of the babies get sick.”

“I’ll do it,” Canyon promised. “Is there anything else we can do?”

“No, I’m sure it’s just a bug going around.” She patted Seren on her arm. “Wait until you have children, it’s always something.”

“Be careful and thank you,” Seren said as Avery took off.

“Come on. We’re outta here.” Canyon took her hand to lead Seren through the maze of people still milling around the crime scene.

She went with him, noting his demeanor had changed in the last few moments. Seren didn’t have to be told why. Every time he heard a child was sick, his mind went straight to Matty. “I know you miss him.”

“Yea.” Still clutching her hand, he stepped ahead to guide Seren between closely parked cars. “Always.”

“You’re young. You’ll fall in love again…”

“Don’t,” Canyon barked out the word, coming to a halt at the passenger side of his truck. “I don’t intend to fall in love.” Even as he said the words they didn’t ring true. Pushing aside those phantom feelings, he repeated the idea he’d held onto for so long. “I have needs, any man does – but I can’t afford to care.” This confession was made as he helped her into the truck and fastened her seat belt. “Friendship is all I have to offer.”

Seren’s heart went out to him. She bit her tongue to keep from telling him how he’d confessed his love for her.

“I love you.”

“What did you say?”

“I mean it, Seren. I think I’ve loved you from the first moment I laid eyes on you.”

“I love you too.” The gift of Canyon’s love, a gift she would’ve died for – coming too late. “I’ll always love you. I’ll never regret loving you.”

“I won’t let you regret it. There’ll never be another day when I don’t show you how much I love you, Seren. I’m not sure how we’re going to work all of this out – but we will. Aside from my Matty, your love is the most wonderful gift I’ve ever received. I’ll never understand the miracle of how you came to me – all I know is that Heaven’s loss is my gain.”

“Your friendship is pretty amazing,” she told him once he was settled behind the wheel.

“I’m not sure about that.” He started the engine and backed out of the still crowded parking lot. “I just know I could never bring another child into the world. I’m not capable of loving anyone like that ever again. There are some losses you can never recover from.”

More than anyone, Seren understood. She’d been with him every step of the way. She’d seen how he suffered. She’d sheltered him in her love when he’d held that pistol in his hand and considered taking his own life. “We can’t know for certain what the future holds for us. We just have to have faith.”

Canyon chose not to debate the issue. He’d lost his faith, he didn’t really believe in anything anymore. Glancing over at her, he could see how tired she looked. “Things will look better tomorrow. I have a guest room. My house isn’t anything to brag about but you’ll be comfortable.”  

“I’m sure I will.”

Once they arrived, Seren was hit by a wave of nostalgia. This was where she’d been the happiest. Every place she looked…she could see them. Walking through the yard hand in hand. Standing together on the porch. Laughing in the kitchen.

Making love in his bed.

“Very nice,” Seren whispered as she followed him from room to room. She looked for some trace of the time she shared with him – but she could see nothing. It was like those days never happened – yet…here she was again. The realization made her shiver.

“You’re cold. Let me put a fire in the fireplace.”

“No.” She touched his arm. “It’s late. You have to work in the morning and this has been a hard day for you.”

Canyon raked a hand through his hair. “You’re right. You’re tired too.” He picked up the bag Avery gave her and started toward the back. “Come with me.”

Seren followed him, her eyes caressing his big body as he moved. She loved the way he looked. So broad. So solid. He was her rock. Her sanctuary. Seren longed to reach out and touch him, to make him remember. To keep herself in check, she put her hands behind her back. “This is so nice of you.”

“Remember, we were going to do something like this before the fire. Now, that we know for sure what kind of maniac we’re dealing with, there’s no way I’m going to leave you alone. You’re stuck with me for the duration.” He opened the door and showed her inside.

Everything looked the same. “This is perfect.”

He placed the bag on a bench at the end of the bed. “Good. I’m glad. The bathroom is next door. I’m at the end of the hall if you need anything else.”

Seren’s breathing grew labored. Memories of them together swirled around her so thick she could barely take in air. “I’ll be fine.” He started to walk away and she found she couldn’t let him go. “Canyon…”

“Yea?” He froze, his whole being responding to the longing in her voice.

“Thank you.” She closed the gap between them, wrapping her arms around him for a heart-stopping hug.

“You’re welcome, honey.” Canyon only hesitated a second before enclosing her in a tight embrace. “God, you feel good.”

His whispered admission made it hard to pull away, but she had no choice. Watcher she might be no longer, but protecting him was still her highest priority. “Sleep well,” she told him, moving back to put a few inches of distance between them.

“You too.” Canyon nodded to Seren, then turned to leave, shutting the door behind him. As attracted as he was to Seren, he knew now wasn’t the time to make a move. Too much had happened. A satisfied smile played on his lips. She was under his roof and that made him happy on several levels. Still, an odd tingling pervaded his chest as he made his way to his room. Canyon felt as if he’d missed something.

Something important.

Behind the closed door, Seren sank to the bed, covering her face with her hands. Everything seemed to be spiraling out of control. Here she was – back where she started from. Truly, there was nowhere she’d rather be…but Gregori’s warning tormented her. After wiping a few tears from her cheeks, she stared out the window, trying to find some peace in the situation. Even though Canyon seemed to be aware of a connection between them on some level, he certainly didn’t remember her.

Or recognize her – of course, she was unrecognizable.

Seren raised a shaking hand to her face. In times past, she’d never been concerned about her looks. She always took her appearance for granted. Now, since her eyes had been opened, she was aware of her shortcomings – and regretted them. Why Canyon seemed so drawn to her, she didn’t know. “It doesn’t matter. We’re just friends. Remember?” She couldn’t afford for them to be anything else.

After readying herself for bed, Seren crawled between the covers to find solace in sleep.

Even as her dreams soared among the stars, her heart remained with Canyon.

 

…Down the hall, Canyon laid in the bed, staring at the ceiling. Walking away from Seren had been damn difficult. His body demanded to be one with her. It was as if it knew what he was missing. “Fuck.” He ran a restless hand over his body, all the way down to cup his cock. Closing his eyes, he began to stroke himself, his legs moving restlessly, his hips bucking. The object of his desire was just down the hall. He knew – somehow, he knew how amazing being with her would be. “Oh, yea. You’re so soft. So wet. Hot. Tight.” Faster and faster, he fisted himself, squeezing his hungry shaft until he could hold back the pleasure no longer. “Seren, God, Seren!” he groaned as jets of milky cum splashed on his stomach. For a few seconds, he laid still, breathing heavily, tiny earthquakes of ecstasy echoing through his body.

After a while, Canyon rose and made his way to the bathroom to clean up. “I need my head examined,” he grumbled to himself. There was a beautiful woman lying a few dozen yards away who’d just pressed her gorgeous body against his, a woman he was in serious lust with – and he was alone in his room jacking off.

But she only wanted to be his friend.

So, she said.

“Hell, that’s not the vibe I’m getting off her.”

After finishing in the restroom, he made his way back to bed. Padding across the floor, he rubbed his face, realizing how tired he felt. “This has been a helluva day.” Between running into Seren, Bull’s emergency surgery, then having Seren’s trailer burn to the ground – it was no wonder he couldn’t think clearly.

While stretching out with a grateful groan, he pulled the covers up over his body, recalling how he’d lost it after hearing one of the McCoy children had taken ill. “Man…” he groaned again, trying to remember what he’d said to Seren. Even though she’d played the friends card first, he certainly reinforced the idea with his commitment phobic rant.

Throwing his arm over his eyes, Canyon tried to relax. Jacking-off usually did it for him, but not this time. He felt edgy. Uneasy. Like things were unsettled and he didn’t know how to make it right. Filtering through his thoughts, he admitted it wasn’t Bull’s surgery worrying him, it wasn’t his workload, it wasn’t even how much he missed his son.

No, this unsettled feeling was completely due to the woman who’d walked into his world and turned it topsy-turvy. Canyon couldn’t explain the desperate drawing he felt toward her, he only knew it was there. Come to think of it, she’d shared very little of her own story. He knew she was starting over with nothing, had no family to speak of, and had just ended a relationship with a no-count man who wasn’t worthy to lick her boots.

“If she belonged to me… Whoa.”

Canyon brought himself up short. What was wrong with him? He certainly wasn’t practicing what he preached. Truth be told, he should back off and let her heal. Undoubtedly, his interference was only adding to her confusion. Yet…he couldn’t bear to leave her unprotected. He also couldn’t stand the thought of turning over responsibility for her safety to someone else.

No. When you wanted something done right, it was better to do it yourself.

“Face it, Brady. You’re greedy. You want to be around her – period.”

For so long he’d punished himself for being alive when Matty was dead. Enjoying himself. Having fun. Living life to the fullest seemed like a sacrilege – a betrayal. Up to this point, he’d never been tempted to forsake his exile and return to the land of the living. It was different with Seren, however. With her, it didn’t seem wrong. There was no denying it, Canyon wanted whatever time with her he could have. He wanted to do all the things they’d planned – and more.

This last thought gave him such peace, he drifted off and slept like a baby.

 

…The next morning Canyon was ready and raring to go when Seren came to the kitchen.

“I remembered you don’t like coffee, so I warmed some milk for hot chocolate.” He handed her a to-go cup. “I need to take you to the Sheriff’s office for a statement before we go to work.”

“Thank you!” She took the sweet drink and took a taste, licking her lips.” After giving Canyon a quick glance, she found him staring at her openly. “What?”

“You look lovely.”

His compliment was so unexpected, she almost dropped her cup. “Uh, thanks.” She glanced down at the lacy top and flowery skirt. “Avery’s taste is a bit on the Bohemian side.”

“Looks good on you.” He started walking toward the door, holding it open for her to pass through. “How did you sleep?”

“Good.” Actually, this was no lie. She’d slept peacefully, almost like she’d come home. The only thing missing was Canyon in her bed. “What do you think the sheriff will ask me?”

“Just for what you know about the situation, nothing else.” As always, he helped her into his truck. “Tell him the details of the encounter in the hall and how it made you feel, what he said to you. Those details will give them an idea of his motivation in stalking you.”

Seren shivered. “Stalking me. I hadn’t thought of it in those terms before.”

“Yea.” Canyon chuckled. “Totally different than the kind of stalking I’ve been doing. I have your best interests at heart.”

His self-deprecating comment melted Seren’s heart and she spoke before she thought, “Your stalking is the welcome kind. Makes all the difference.”

“Good to know.” He gave her a wink as he steered the truck toward the main highway. On the way, he bought breakfast sandwiches for them. Seren couldn’t help but bask in the wonder of being cared for by Canyon. “Here.” He handed her a napkin. “I called Jacob and told him I might be a little late.”

“I’m sorry.” She wiped her mouth on the paper napkin he gave her. “Just drop me off. I can walk to the bar from the sheriff’s office.”

Canyon eased down the road, giving Seren a sideways glance. “Fat chance, buttercup.”

“I know you have things to do,” she muttered under her breath.

“It’s no problem,” Canyon assured her. When he saw that stubborn little chin of hers rise, he relented a bit. “When all of this is over, I’ll talk to Jonah to see if he can keep an eye out for a good, inexpensive car for you.”

“I can’t drive.”

Canyon was confused. “You have a driver’s license.”

She shrugged, but offered no explanation.

“What?” He chuckled. “I guess they were just handing them out to pretty girls where you’re from.” At her frown, he laughed again. “Don’t worry. I’ll teach you, it’s not hard.”

She didn’t argue with him, she didn’t want to.

“Did Jacob say how his son was doing?” Seren had no doubt that Canyon had asked about Bowie.

Smiling, he nodded. “He’s much better. Probably a twenty-four-hour bug.”

Inside the sheriff’s office, he led the way, making sure the officers knew why Seren was there. When she was taken into one of the side rooms to give her statement, Kane came out to speak to Canyon.

“Brady. Want some coffee?” He ambled over to a small room with a coffee bar inside. “Follow me.”

Canyon did so. “Just black will do. Did you apprehend Valencia?”

Kane shook his head, sipping his own cup of coffee, taking off his Stetson to crease the brim between two strong fingers. “Nope. The trailer he was living in over at the Bar X is empty. He didn’t report to work and no one has seen or heard from him.”

Canyon slapped the flat of his hand on the wall. “Damn! He’s probably in Mexico by now.”

Kane shrugged. “Maybe. We’ll keep looking. You just keep a close eye on your girl. Seems like she’s his main target.”

“No worries. I plan to.”

The sheriff started to walk away, then turned back, snapping his fingers. “By the way, there’s something else that might interest you.”

“What’s that?”

“We got the report back on the duck boat incident.” He leveled a look at Canyon. “It wasn’t an accident. The boat was sabotaged.”

“Really?” Canyon was shocked. “Everyone thought it was a combination of the storm and negligence.”

Kane crossed his arms over his chest. “Well, I’m not saying those things didn’t contribute to the outcome, but sabotage set the ball rolling.”

“What kind of sabotage?” Canyon asked, intrigued.

The sheriff was about to answer when he was paged. “Sorry.” He answered his phone. “What’s up?” Canyon could hear them playing back a frantic 9-1-1 call. “Gotta go.” Kane tipped his hat at Canyon. “I’ll see you soon.”

“Count on it,” he mumbled, letting what he’d learned sink in. When Seren was finished, Canyon escorted her out. “Everything okay?” he asked, noticing her pensive expression.

“They can’t locate him. He’s still out there somewhere.”

Putting an arm around her shoulders, he reassured her, “They’ll find him. In the meantime, you’ve got me.”

Seren gave him a grateful smile, wishing she could have him longer than just in the meantime.

After driving to Hardbodies, Canyon walked her inside. “I’ll be here before closing time. All right?” He was tempted to kiss her, but refrained. They just weren’t there yet.

“Okay. Thank you.” She wanted to hug him again, but knowing they weren’t alone, she resisted. “I’m sure this will be over soon.”

“I just don’t want you to worry about it, okay?” He paused in front of her, giving in to the temptation to touch her cheek with the tip of one finger.

“I won’t.” This was no lie. As she watched the big blacksmith leave, Seren knew she was far more concerned about what was happening between them than any threat Diego posed.

“Oh, wow.” Doris sighed behind her. “You have caught yourself one fine specimen of a man.”

“He’s not mine.” Seren scuffed her shoe on the floor. “We’re just friends.”

“I’ve heard that one before.” Doris patted Seren’s back. “Sorry about the trailer out back. I understand you lost all your belongings.”

“I did.” She waved her hand. “No big deal. Nothing that really mattered.” Seren laughed wryly. “Except my cash.” She sighed dramatically. “Teaches me to get a checking account.”

“Yea.” Doris tossed her a dish towel. “Help me wipe down the tables. They’ve had the doors open today bringing in bales of hay. There’s a coat of dust on everything.”

“Sure thing.”

As they went to work, Doris kept up a steady stream of conversation. “You’ll be able to make up some of your lost dough at the party. It’s always a heavy tipping night…if you wear the right costume.” She gave Seren a knowing look and a wink.

“The right costume?” She frowned, bending over to wipe the seats of the chairs before she pushed them under the table. “I don’t have a costume and no money to buy one.”

“No worries. Sofia brought in a whole collection from her shop for us to choose from. She’s been featuring handmade costumes for the Day of the Dead celebration. Some of them are spooky…and some are downright sexy.”

“Who’s Sofia?” Seren didn’t recognize the name.

“Noah’s mother,” Doris announced. “You know, Isaac’s brother, Noah.”

“They didn’t have the same mother,” Seren mumbled, a distant memory resurfacing.

“Right. Long story and I don’t know it all. I think it was a big deal when the truth came out, but the family rallied around one another like they usually do…” Doris shrugged. “And all is well. Some families weather storms easier than others do.”

Seren nodded. Weathering her own storm was proving difficult. “So, we can pick out a costume?”

“Yea, they’re in Avery’s office. When you take a break, go see what appeals to you.” She gave Seren a wink.   

An hour or so later, after everything was ready for the club to open, Seren went to check with Emma to see if she needed anything. “Can I get you something from the storage room, barkeep?” Even though Emma was able to do amazingly well without sight, there were a few things she couldn’t manage on her own.

“Uh…I could use a fresh bottle of Jack Daniels, if you’re going that way,” Emma said as she finished placing a line of fresh beer mugs on the sidebar for the evening’s use.

“You got it,” Seren called as she took off for the back. As she passed Avery’s vacant office, what Doris said about the costumes came to mind. Making a U-turn, she flipped on the light and walked in, her eyes widening at the sight of the rack full of clothing. “Oh, my stars and garters!” Seren smiled as she began pushing the hangers apart to see each garment more closely. The choices were varied. “Saloon girl. Good one. Bright red. Too low cut.” She picked up another one. “Supergirl! Neat!” The next one she discarded quickly. “Zombie. Uh-uh.” The next one…not so fast. “Oh, my…” Seren grinned at what she held in her hand. While chewing on her bottom lip, she inspected the pink bunny costume, complete with a pair of bent furry ears. “This is just like mine.” Her eyes gravitated back to the Supergirl red cape as she made a grab for it. “Now, my costume is complete.”

 

…After an uneventful work day, Canyon hurried to his truck. He hurried because he was anxious to leave. For the first time in a long while, he had someone to go home to.

On the way to Hardbodies, he made his plans for the evening. Seren’s shift wouldn’t end for a few hours and he didn’t intend to take his eyes off her. What he could do while he bided his time was work on a couple of football pools. A lot of the guys he knew enjoyed playing the harmless gambling game. His plans were to concoct one for the next Longhorn game and one for the next Texans game. At five dollars a square, no one would break the bank, and there would be several chances to win. With a hundred squares, the pot would be five hundred dollars. Each quarter would get a fifth and the final score two-fifths. When he drew near the Dollar General, Canyon whipped in long enough to grab some paper and markers. While inside the business, he decided to get Seren a surprise. “Hmmm.” What will it be? The retail store specialized in inexpensive items, so the selection wasn’t huge. As he perused each aisle, a smile broke on his face. “She’ll like this.” He picked up a plastic Jack o’ lantern and began to fill it with all sorts of candy and little prizes. “Halloween is coming up and we’ll play our own version of trick-or-treat.”

 

…Back at the bar, Seren was aware of the time. For the last hour, her pulse rate had begun to pick up knowing Canyon would be making an appearance soon. Unless…he’d changed his mind about her staying with him? “No, he wouldn’t do that,” she mumbled as she placed a mug of beer in front of Jonah Callan.

“Wouldn’t do what?” the mechanic asked as he cracked open a peanut from the basket in front of him.

“Nothing, I was just thinking aloud.” Seren blushed at being caught talking to herself. “How’s your father?”

Jonah raised one eyebrow, surprised to hear the waitress asking after his dad. “Oh, he’s…about the same.”

“Tell him Seren said hello.” She gave him a kind smile.

“I’ll do it.”

She was about to walk away when the next word out of Jonah’s mouth caught her complete attention.

“Canyon!”

Canyon. Standing on one foot at the moment, Seren pivoted to catch a glimpse of the man who’d occupied the center of her universe for as long as she could remember. To her surprise, his eyes immediately locked with hers – and he smiled. A welcoming greeting that sent an electric thrill right up her spine.

“Get my friend a beer too,” Jonah directed her.

“Right away.” She glanced at the mechanic, then right back at Canyon. Giving him a shy smile, she hurried away to fill the order.

“Sit. Take a load off.” Jonah pulled out a chair for the blacksmith. “You have a good day at work?”

“So. So.” Canyon piled the papers and marker on the table. He’d left the plastic pumpkin full of candy in the truck for later. “You?”

“Not as good as you, apparently. You’re grinning like a mule eating briars.” Jonah cut his eyes back to the pretty waitress making her way across the room with their beers. “Could it have anything to do with the new girl?”

“Maybe.” He waited on Seren, taking the tray from her to place it on the table. “Sit with me for a second or two.” He took his seat, pulling Seren into his lap.

“I have to work,” she protested weakly, her heart pounding at the unexpected treat. “You’re here early.”

“Nah, I’m right on time.” He tightened his arm around her waist as he sipped his beer. “Everything okay with you?”

“Yea.” She knew what he was asking. “No problems here.” In other words, no sign of Diego. “I picked out my Halloween costume for Wednesday.”

“Can I see?”

The look of joy on his face pushed aside every doubt. “If you come to the party.”

“I wouldn’t miss it,” he assured her, completely ignoring the leer Jonah was giving him.

“Are you going to dress up?”

“Hmmm. I don’t know…” He looked at Jonah. “How about you?”

“Delaney says I should be the doctor from back to the future. She even bought me some crazy hair to wear.”

“Delaney, huh? She seems to have made herself at home.” Canyon commented to Jonah in an amused tone, before turning to Seren to ask her opinion. “What do you think my costume should be?”

With his hand skating up and down her back it was a bit hard to think. “Well, with a hammer as big as yours, I don’t think there’s any better option than Thor.” Seeing Doris waving at her from the bar, she eased from Canyon’s arms. “I’d better get busy.”

When Seren rose to go back to work, she left Jonah and Canyon sitting in their seats with their mouths open.

“Did she just say what I think she said?” Jonah asked with something like awe in his voice.

“Yea, she did,” Canyon muttered. “Although…I’m sure she didn’t mean…”

“I don’t know,” Jonah countered in a hushed voice. “Women can surprise you sometimes.”

For the next couple of hours, Canyon filled the football pool squares as word filtered around the club. Five-dollar bills rained down like confetti as every cowboy and biker present wanted in on the deal. Denver and Cruz joined them, even coming up with a few games of their own. Alcohol flowed and things got crazy. In the midst of the hullabaloo, Canyon didn’t think Jonah realized he bought a square on a pool betting on the day he would succumb to the wiles of his father’s attractive caretaker, Delaney. “Hey, dude. Did you even read what you were signing?”

“What?” He drained his latest mug of beer. “Don’t kill my buzz, Brady. I’m feeling lucky.”

Canyon shrugged, then chuckled. “You know best, big man.” He was just glad no one had created a pool about him and Seren. All night, no matter what had been going on at his table, he’d always known right where she was and who was around her. “Do you need someone to drive you home?”

“Negatory.” He stood up and walked the straight edge of a plank of hardwood flooring. “I’m fine.”

“Be careful anyway,” he called as Jonah went to pay his tab.

“Tonight’s on me, bud!”

“Thanks, Callan. I appreciate you.” He shuffled the papers and put away the pool money in a bank bag he kept stuffed underneath his truck seat. All the while, he watched Seren as she finished up the last couple of tables she was tending. He couldn’t help note the strings of the apron she’d tied around her small waist were dangling down the middle of her heart-shaped ass. “Yea, my big hammer’s getting bigger, baby.” Shifting in his seat, he tried to make room for his aching cock behind the strained denim material of his jeans. “Calm down, bud. As much as we’d like it to be, tonight’s not the night.” He'd no sooner finished consoling his eager dick than his cell phone buzzed. Seeing Bull’s name, he grinned as he hit ‘accept’. “You ready to come home?”

“I’m straining at the bit.”

Canyon liked the sound of that. “You’re feeling better.”

“Like I got a new lease on life.”

Considering how his friend almost died, Canyon was so grateful to hear his upbeat tone. “When you come home, we’ll party. Any word when they’re going to spring you from that joint?”

“Not yet, I’m hoping tomorrow or Wednesday. Whenever it is, Isabella wants to have you and Seren over sometime soon. Apparently, your girl made quite an impression on mine.”

He started to correct Bull with a ‘we’re just friends’ line, but he didn’t do it. “As soon as you’re settled, just say the word.”

“Oh, and thanks for the gift. A friend of Isabella’s found the piece you left on the porch and picked it up for safekeeping. She sent a photo of it to us over her phone. It’s amazing, man.”

“You’re welcome. I’m glad you like it.” By the time he was through with the call, Seren came to join him.

“Hey, I’m finished.”

“Good!” Canyon stood to gather his things. “I’m ready to head out. What are you hungry for?”

“Tacos,” she muttered, yawned, and smiled. “I’m craving tacos.”

Her simple answer amused him. “Tacos, it is. I like a woman who knows her own mind.” Canyon wasted no time escorting her to his truck, then driving them both to the local Tex-Mex restaurant for takeout. “Do you mind eating in the parking lot? By the time we get home everything would be cold.”

“Not at all.” Seren clutched her jacket tighter around her. “Feels like late October, doesn’t it?”

“Yea, it does.” He adjusted the heater, angling the vent to blow more fully on her. “Better?”

“Yes, thank you.” She opened the takeout bag and helped him divide their loot. “Smells good.”

“Tastes even better, I bet.” He took a big bite. “I was right. Eat up,” Canyon encouraged her. Noticing she was toeing off her shoes, he nodded toward her feet. “Sore?”

“Yea.” She took a bite and nodded. “I didn’t use to appreciate the fact of always feeling good, no aches or pains.”

“Getting old’s a bitch.” He leaned against the door and exhaled a satisfied breath.

“You’re not old,” she assured him. “You’re just right.”

Canyon licked some salsa off the tip of his thumb. “Damn, you always know the right thing to say.”

“Not always.” She gave a satisfied little sigh, taking another bite of beef taco. “I hope you didn’t have anything better to do tonight than babysit me.”

“I had fun.” He nodded to the bank bag. “We organized some football pools.” At her puzzled expression, he explained. “You know, where we put down money on a pair of numbers to see who will guess the scores of the game.”

“Oh, that sounds fun.”

“It is.” He took a drink of soda. “And Bull called me. He’s doing good and will be coming home soon.”

“Excellent.”

He thought a moment before telling her the other thing. “Do you remember hearing about that duck boat accident a few weeks back? The one on Canyon Lake? Several people drowned.”

“Yea, I remember.” She felt a stab of pain.

“Sheriff Saucier told me they determined it was sabotage. Someone put a hole in the bottom of the boat. Started out as a slow leak, then the pressure built and it filled up fast.”

“How awful.” She remembered seeing Canyon carrying the poor children who had perished from the water. “I’m so sorry. I hope they catch whoever is responsible. Will they close down the boat ride?”

Canyon thought a second or two. “I don’t know. I’m sure the boat would need a tremendous amount of repair. Although, every time a tragedy happens, we can’t quit doing things we enjoy. No one would ever ride a plane or drive a car again.”

“Or take a shower,” she added and Canyon laughed.

“True, it’s those shower accidents you have to watch out for. I’ve had a few close calls in my time.”

“Yea.” She smiled, remembering.

Both grew quiet for a moment, each imagining the other in the shower.

Canyon finished his last bite, clearing his throat, and wiping his mouth with a napkin. “Well, that was good. Did you get full?”

Seren nodded, able to see him quite well as they sat in the parking lot underneath the security lamp. “Very.”

Gathering their trash, Canyon stepped out of the truck to throw it away in a nearby garbage can. When he returned, he saw Seren had nestled down in her seat. “That’s right. Close your eyes and rest. I’ll wake you up when we get home.”

With a contented sigh, she did as he suggested.

On the road home, he kept stealing glances at her, smiling when he realized she was fast asleep. When he arrived at home, Canyon didn’t wake her. Coming around to the passenger side, he gathered Seren into his arms and her things into his arms to carry her inside. Taking slow, even steps, he smiled as she clutched his collar and snuggled deeper into his embrace.

Once he was in the guest bedroom, he balanced her in one arm while he put her shoes and bag on the floor, then pulled the covers down on the bed. “There you go,” he whispered after placing her on the sheet. Standing up straight, he tried to assess what he should do next.

Should he wake her?

Should he undress her?

Seeing the peaceful expression on her beautiful face, Canyon opted to let her sleep. “I can do this,” he murmured softly as he found her gown, then proceeded to undress her carefully. As he did so, Canyon felt as if he’d done this before. He’d uncovered this satiny skin. His lips had blazed trails over her beautiful body. “You gotta stop – before you can’t.” Laying aside the clothing he’d removed, he pulled the gown over her head and slipped her hands through the armholes. “I’d better not take off your underwear, I might just have to crawl in this bed with you if I do.”

As soon as he’d arranged her gown and brought the cover up under her chin, Canyon stepped back – and dared to breathe. He deserved a medal for valor in the face of unbridled lust. Taking one last look at his beautiful guest, he backed away slowly. His desire for Seren was accompanied by a heart melting tenderness. When he bumped into the dresser at the foot of the bed, he felt an overwhelming urge to sit on top of it – just to watch her sleep during the night.