Nine
Engaged? Alyn thumped the side of her head. Needing to clear her ears. Had she heard him correctly? Apparently so, given his teammates’ stares. Confused and disbelieving. They thought he’d lost his mind. No one could wrap their head around Halo’s announcement. Least of all her.
What had he just done? They’d agreed to hold off on the announcement until she’d spoken to Danny and her mother, and explained the real reason behind their public relationship. Which wasn’t genuine commitment. It was all business. To get aggressive women off Halo’s back and to allow her to open her vintage shop. Theirs was far from an actual love affair. And she’d never agreed to an engagement. Idiot man.
She shrank down on the bleacher, trying to make herself small. Invisible, if it were possible. Standing before her, Danny took it all in. His nose scrunched. He didn’t fully understand. There was no little-boy bounce to him now.
Questions flew all around her. The ballplayers hit Halo hardest. The microphone was on, and their concerns aired live.
“Who’s the woman?”
“Where did you meet?”
“How long have you been seeing her?”
“What the fuck?”
“Dude, you crazy?”
Halo took it all in stride. Not a flinch. Not a change in his expression. “She’s my mystery woman for the moment,” he said with ease. “I’ve taken her by surprise by going public. She’ll come forward when she’s ready.”
Twisting toward her, Danny put his hands on her shoulders, leaned close. Whispered, “Are you Halo’s mystery?”
Her brother was one smart cookie. “If I am?”
“I’d keep your secret.”
She touched her fingers to her lips. “Sshh. I’ll fill you in later.”
He crossed his heart. “I’ll wait to be filled.”
People were looking around now. Craning their necks. Speculating on whether Halo’s fiancée was seated in the stands. “Is she here?” one of the reporters asked.
“How long have you been engaged?” rose from the back of the media group.
“Have you set a wedding date?” from the feature editor of the local newspaper.
Halo responded with, “This isn’t twenty questions.”
“You can’t broadcast an engagement and not give details,” said a radio announcer.
“You’re getting personal, and I’m giving my lady space,” Halo said. “She’s a private person.”
“Will we meet her during spring training?” Once again from the feature editor.
Halo nodded slowly. “Chances are good you will.” He raised his hand, palm out. “Enough said. Back to the team. No predictions from me this year. We’ll let our bats and fielding speak for us.”
The community liaison rescued the microphone. Jillian looked at Halo, deciding how best to handle his engagement news so it wouldn’t overshadow the team.
“We appreciate every player’s update,” she said. “Let’s give the Rogues a big round of applause.” Clapping resounded. “Come November, bring the World Series Trophy back to Richmond.”
Agreement came in hoots and hollers. Arm pumps. Jumping on the bleachers. The energy was tangible. The starting roster signed autographs for an hour afterward. Female fans pouted and stroked Halo’s arm, as disbelieving as Alyn that he’d become a one-woman man. Even if he could spell it.
He was a long way from settling down, she thought. If ever. Restless, testosterone driven, his bad boy hid just beneath the surface. Waiting for the right moment to come out and play. Hard. Fast. Fierce.
She wondered how long he could sustain the façade of commitment without falling to temptation. The women who approached him were all beautiful. Beach babes and athletic groupies, all toned, tanned, willing, and available. His loyalty would be tested hourly. She’d give him a month, at best, maybe less, before the novelty of being a couple wore off. She’d be amazed if he made it through spring training without cheating on her. Despite the fact they weren’t really together.
The players soon returned to the locker room. The plaza slowly cleared. Ninety-year-old Eleanor nudged Alyn with her elbow. “Are we supposed to sit and wait for our player or should we take the commuter bus back to Barefoot Inn?” she asked.
Alyn stood up, stretched. “I’m going back to the inn,” she decided. Halo hadn’t made afternoon plans with Danny or her. She didn’t want to crowd him. Halo deserved his own free time.
Eleanor walked with them as they left the plaza. Danny’s disappointment showed. He dragged his feet. “I won’t see Halo until tomorrow,” he muttered.
“Tuesday will be a big day for you,” Alyn pointed out, attempting to brighten his mood. “The team holds its first practice. The contest winners have full-access passes and seats behind the home dugout. You’ll see every move Halo makes.”
“Tomorrow’s not today,” said Danny.
Alyn had an idea. “Once we get back to the inn, we’ll check on Mom, take Quigley for a stroll, and then head to the boardwalk. There’s carnival rides and an arcade. I need to buy a small cooler and sunscreen. Sunglasses and a hat. We’ll do it all. How’s that sound?”
He sighed. “It would be more fun with Halo.”
“You’re stuck with me, sweetheart. I can be fun.”
He took her hand then, as they crossed the parking lot. He perked up a little. “Can I have ice cream, nachos, popcorn, and a snow cone?”
“Not all at once.”
“Can I get a Barefoot William T-shirt?”
She’d work the shirt into her budget. “A great beach souvenir.”
“Can we build a sand castle?”
“If not today, tomorrow.” Danny wanted to do everything. Straightaway. They had plenty of time to spread things out. She had no experience in sand creation, but would give it her best shot.
He looked at her then. Cheered up. “Thanks, sis.”
They’d reached the bus. Politeness turned Alyn toward Eleanor. She asked, “Would you like to join us on our afternoon outing?”
Eleanor lifted her cane. “What do you think, Herman?” She listened, nodded, smiled.
Danny was drawn to the exchange. “What did Herman say?”
“That a walk down the boardwalk and pier reminds him of our time at Atlantic City. It’s just what the doctor ordered.”
“What doctor?” asked Danny.
“It’s an expression,” Eleanor explained. “An afternoon with the two of you is perfect for me.”
“Perfect for us, too,” said Alyn.
“Do you have a swimsuit?” asked Danny.
“I wouldn’t take a pretty picture.”
“Who’s taking your picture?”
Eleanor patted Danny on the head. “No one, son. I’m not thirty anymore. I don’t want to scare the other sunbathers.”
“Alyn’s thirty.”
“And beautiful.”
“Halo thinks so, too,” popped out.
Danny caught Eleanor’s interest. “He does, does he?”
“It’s a secret.”
“Ah, so that’s the way of it,” the older woman said. “The mystery continues.”
“It’s not what you think, Eleanor.” Alyn needed to stop any and all speculation.
“Let’s just see.” She and Herman climbed on the bus.
The remaining contest winners straggled onto the commuter. The conversation on the way back to the inn centered on baseball. The players. Media Day. And Halo Todd’s engagement.
Alyn kept a close eye on Danny, not wanting him to comment on Halo. Her brother sat quietly. Eleanor’s shrewd side-glances gave nothing away, yet she knew more than she was saying.
Back at the inn, Eleanor headed to her room to change clothes. She would meet them in the lobby in thirty minutes. Alyn and Danny sought their mother, locating her in the sun room, just off the main entrance. Here Martha sat alone, relaxed on a wicker lounger. An iced tea and stack of magazines rested on a table nearby. Lemony sunshine filled the room. A ceiling fan spun slowly overhead, gently stirring the air.
Alyn watched, listened, grinned as her brother hugged their mother, and then went over every detail of the stadium and Media Day at record speed. He took only one breath, and his words ran together. He wrapped up their entire morning in five minutes flat.
He finished with, “We’re going to the beach. El’nor and Herman, too. Come with us, Mommy?”
Martha nodded, agreed. “I’ve scanned the city brochure, and there are lots of neat shops on the boardwalk. The Rogues Store sells memorabilia.” She ruffled Danny’s hair. “You can choose something special, if you like.”
Danny hopped from one foot to the other, excited. “A jersey with Halo’s number on the back.”
“Twenty-eight will look good on you.”
Halo Todd. Alyn recognized the deep male voice, and felt her body go soft. She turned slightly, and found him leaning negligently against the doorframe, arms crossed over his chest. He wore the same clothes he had earlier, black T-shirt and jeans. Loafers. His gaze was locked on her. His expression unreadable. His smile tipped when Danny ran to him. He drew the boy close for a hug. A natural interaction.
Danny was beside himself. “You found us,” he said.
“When you didn’t wait for me, I came for you.”
Hands on his hips, Danny eyed Alyn. “We should’ve stayed. I would’ve waited all day.”
“But your sister didn’t.”
“She said you might have other plans.”
“My plans are with you, while you’re in town,” Halo said firmly. His gaze shifted from Danny, touched on Martha, when he said, “I have something to share with you privately, while we’re all together.”
Privately. Alyn knew what was coming and held her breath.
Martha touched her hand to her heart. “I hope it’s not serious.”
“Nothing that will affect us long-term,” Alyn was quick to assure her.
Martha clasped her hands on her lap. “Tell me.”
Halo crossed to Alyn, drew her to his side. Heat and sensation enveloped her. He held nothing back. “Alyn and I are engaged.”
Martha was so stunned, she couldn’t speak.
Danny looked smug. “I knew it before you, Mommy.”
Comprehension came slowly to Martha. Her eyes rounded; her lips pursed. Always practical, Martha pointed out, “You’ve only known each other a short time.”
“The engagement is strictly a business arrangement,” Alyn said. “One that benefits us both.”
Martha shook her head, bewildered. “I don’t understand.”
“Let me explain.” Halo filled in the blanks. Slowly. Precisely. Describing their deal as beneficial to them both. He ended with, “A fiancée discourages groupies. My mind will be fully on the game.”
“I’ll have my antique shop,” said Alyn. “And a very silent partner.”
“You’ll never hear a word from me,” Halo affirmed.
Alyn rolled her eyes. She didn’t believe him for a second. He was opinionated. Outspoken. Known to jump the gun.
“Sis is Halo’s mystery lady,” Danny repeated what he’d heard at the ballpark. “She’s in hiding.”
Martha looked at Alyn, questioningly.
“Halo didn’t introduce me to the press,” she informed her mother. “I’ve yet to be named.”
“She’s ’sguised,” said Danny.
“Disguised.” Alyn helped him with the word.
“We’ll be discovered eventually,” said Halo. “Beforehand, we need to get fully acquainted. I don’t want to be blindsided and botch questions when asked how we met. Her favorite color?”
Danny piped up. “Purple.”
“Her birthdate?”
“January twelfth,” her brother said.
“How long we’ve dated?”
Danny counted on his fingers. “Eight days.”
“Amount of time we’ve been engaged?”
“One day.”
“Our wedding date?”
Danny scrunched his nose. “No wedding, but I won’t tell anyone.”
Alyn caught the flicker of disappointment in her brother’s eyes. She sighed. Danny was seeking a happy ending. Romance would not be the end result in this case. She would involve him in her shop instead. Take marriage off his mind.
In the next day or two, she and Halo had a lot to learn about each other. Even if they were on the same page, the man tended to wing it. Scarily so. She recalled the game show, and how he went unscripted. He said things that seemed right at the moment, but caused a ripple effect. He penned her in, with no way out.
Martha’s forehead creased. Worry curved deep lines at the corners of her mouth. She twisted her hands in her lap, questioned, “No love?” She was visibly shaken.
“Support and respect,” Halo supplied.
“Friendship, and a chance to live my dream,” Alyn said.
“Dreams should include a man.” An old-fashioned notion from her mother, but one she believed.
“The man will come someday,” Alyn assured her. “Shy Lily is now.”
“So there’s nothing between you and Halo? Nothing at all?”
“Who knows?” Halo gave Martha hope. He finger-tipped Alyn’s chin, so she looked up at him. “A lot can change in ten months.”
Alyn had no such expectations. She was attracted to Halo. He was one gorgeous male. Her feelings amplified around him. Looking at him now made her heart quicken. Her stomach quiver. His smile alone turned her on. He could take her to bed with a flash of deep dimples. His body made her weak in the knees.
Daily, her mind gave her heart a reality check. Halo Todd’s presence in her life was short-lived. Still, her heart was unconvinced. Maybe there was more to them than met the eye. Just maybe.
Martha looked at her fondly, if not a little sadly. “You deserve happiness, Alyn. Wherever and however you find it.”
Halo skimmed his hand down Alyn’s arm, raising goose bumps. He took her hand, held it loosely. Surprised her with, “I’ve already reserved your shop.”
“You have? When?” The news was heart-stopping.
“On my drive from the stadium to the inn,” he said. “I called a realtor friend. I didn’t want the space rented out from under you. You’re set for a year. Then we renegotiate.”
We. Halo was all action, Alyn realized. When he wanted something, he went after it. Got it. She was grateful in this instance. Even if he had selective memory. Recalling only what suited him. She’d only agreed to be his girlfriend for ten months. He’d made her his fiancée and just added two more months to their deal. Apprehension prickled the back of her neck. He was getting ahead of himself. And way ahead of her.
Martha was expectant. “Which location?” she asked. “We looked at several.”
“Downtown,” said Alyn. “The empty store on the second floor of the historical landmark building.”
Martha remembered. “It was quite expensive.”
“Halo will support me until I turn a profit,” Alyn said. “Then I’ll pay him back.”
“Be sure, Alyn,” her mother requested. “I don’t want you—”
“Disappointed?” Halo filled in. “Dumped?” He was blunt. “I won’t hurt her, Martha. No breaking her heart. You have my word.”
Danny gazed up at Halo, his eyes filled with hero-worship and trust. “I believe you, bro.”
Bro? Halo’s influence continued to rub off on Danny. Alyn trusted Halo, perhaps more than she should. He was kind to her family, including Quigley. “It’s workable,” Alyn told her mom. “Our word is binding. We’ve sealed the deal.”
Martha gave in. “While I don’t wholeheartedly approve, you’re a big girl, Alyn, and can make your own decisions. I’m on your side, whatever you do. If Halo provides you with a means to an end, and you’re his arm candy for a few months, so be it.”
Arm candy? Where had her mom gotten such an expression? That’s when she noticed a copy of Lady’s Life on the coffee table. The glossy magazine featured “Statuette of a Trophy Wife” and “Arm Candy: Female Bling.” Articles recently read by her mom, and written from a superficial perspective. A beautiful woman on a man’s arm was all for show. Her value: no more than a pair of cuff links.
Cuff links didn’t come close to capturing a man’s heart. Alyn wondered if any one woman could keep her finger on Halo’s pulse. His heart beat for so many.
In her case, she would stand by him, discouraging fan-girls and groupies, so he could concentrate on the upcoming season. She was average looking. Few women would see her as a threat. She’d go with it, despite her misgivings.
“When do you and my daughter plan to go public?” Martha asked Halo.
“The announcement will come when friends, fans, and the media put us together. Not before. Let them figure it out,” said Halo.
Martha breathed easier. “So as of right now, no one knows you’re a couple?”
“Only me.” Eleanor Norris reappeared, wearing a Rogues baseball cap, a peach seersucker jacket and matching slacks, and an I-knew-it smile. “I have no plans to tell anyone,” she assured them.
Eleanor settled on a wicker armchair with a bright orange cushion. Sunlight from the window cast soft highlights in her gray hair. Her expression relaxed. She looked more eighty than ninety. She tapped the end of her cane on the hardwood floor. “I’ll sit right here while you get ready for our outing.”
“Where are you headed?” asked Halo.
“Beach and boardwalk,” Alyn told him. “You’re invited to join us.”
He gave her a look that said, You’re my woman, I don’t need an invitation. It made her breath catch. “What about Quiggie Sparks?” he asked.
Alyn appreciated his concern for the pug. “I’m going to take him for a walk, then he’ll come with us.”
Halo frowned. “No dogs on the boardwalk, babe. Even one in a handicap cart.”
“He won’t be walking.”
Never in his life had Halo imagined he’d be walking the Barefoot William boardwalk carrying a twenty pound pug in a front carrier backpack. Made of a water-resistant nylon fabric, the pooch pouch was soft and durable, with mesh sides for well-ventilated rides.
Halo shook his head when he caught his reflection in a store window. Dog days of spring. People stared and smiled. Stopped him, wanting to give Quigs some love. The pug responded with soft barks and doggie kisses. Halo received a few pats on the arm, too.
As they proceeded, Halo wanted nothing more than to casually hold Alyn’s hand. To ease her close. To feel her sweet woman’s body brush his. Instead, he cupped her dog’s butt, supporting Quigley against his chest. The pug was having leg spasms. His back legs shot out unexpectedly. He’d recently kicked a lady in the chest. She’d stood too close while scratching his ears.
A muscle tremor was a tremor. Alyn’s breath caught with each contraction. She would then lean over Quigley, praise him, and give a hug. The top of her head tickled Halo’s chin. She wore her hair in a long braid. The breeze had tugged a few strands free. They flirted with his jaw, his cheek. Shiny and apple-scented.
Alyn Jayne was sexy without meaning to be sexy, Halo noted. She had no idea how hot she looked in her turquoise sundress with a narrow, gold necklace strap. He knew, and appreciated her. Nearly every man they passed gave Alyn the eye. Or sent her a smile. He wasn’t crazy about the attention given his fiancée. No one knew she belonged to him. Not yet, anyway. In the men’s minds she was a free agent. That would soon change.
Danny bounced along at Halo’s side. Pointing out every store and sight on the boardwalk. Wanting to go here and there, and uncertain what to do first. The afternoon was all about the boy. Once something caught his full attention, they would stop. Take part. Until then, they kept pace with the other tourists. Browsed the storefronts.
Martha and Eleanor chatted up a storm. They had a lot in common, despite their age difference. Both were born in Richmond. Astonishingly, they’d grown up mere miles apart. Each had two children of their own. Eleanor beamed over six grandchildren and three great-grands. The ladies were both widowed. Eleanor’s husband, Herman, had been a florist. Martha’s husband, a landscaper. The women made plans to get together when they returned home.
Even during the afternoon, the party atmosphere on the boardwalk was endless and unbroken. It was the season, the snowbirds were in town. There was an eclectic blend of singles and families; grandparents and toddlers. Barefoot William had character. A life of its own. The air stirred with perpetual motion. The daytime was as exciting and explosive as the neon and torchlights of night.
Danny soon spun around, punched the air. “The carousel,” he shouted as they neared the hand-carved purple-and-white horses with the amber eyes and gold saddles. “Ride with me, Halo,” he pleaded. “Grab the brass ring.”
“I’ll take Quigley,” Alyn said. “It’s time for him to change positions anyway. There are benches shaded by beach umbrellas at the entrance to the pier. I’ll sit, and let him stretch out.”
“I don’t mind watching him, honey,” her mother offered. She fanned her face. “I’m parched. There’s a metal cart selling lemon ice next to the ticket booth.” She glanced at Eleanor, and the older woman nodded. “Two, please.”
Halo had his wallet out, and five dollars extracted before Martha could unzip her fanny pack. He handed the money to Danny; nodded toward the vendor. Danny made the purchases, returning with the right amount of change and no spilling. Not one little drop. He was proud of himself. He’d remembered spoons and napkins.
“Can I go talk to the fishermen?” Danny asked. A group stood farther down the pier, casting their lines.
“Don’t get too close to the railings,” Martha warned.
The boy agreed and was gone, his feet flying. Halo kept an eye on Danny as he shot past Hook It, Cook It. The two shops were some of the oldest on the pier—Hook It sold bait and tackle, and Cook It stood next door, a small chef’s kitchen where fishermen could have their daily catch cleaned and filleted for a small fee, then baked or fried for lunch or dinner. A salad, hush puppies, and fries came on the side. The tourists found it a novelty to eat their meals fresh from the Gulf.
Danny had listened to his mother, stopping and standing off to the side, out of the way. He watched, fascinated, as the fishermen’s lines stretched with each hit, and they reeled in their catch.
Halo shifted his stance, casting his weight on his left hip. He found it difficult to stand still while Alyn removed the backpack. Her hands slid beneath the safety harness attachment, working upward along his ribcage as she unhooked the carrier clasps and loosened the drawstring. One of her fingernails flicked his nipple. The flick went south, straight to his groin. He stirred, talked himself down, while she lifted the padded straps over his head, freeing him. She then scooped the pug to her own chest. Quigs gave her so many kisses Halo lost count.
He watched her settle Quigley on his belly, cushioned by the flexible carrier. The pug wiggled his shoulders, stretched out his front legs. Alyn adjusted his back legs for maximum comfort. She stood, sighed, preoccupied. Unguarded, she leaned against Halo. She was a natural fit at his side. Curving his arm about her waist, he settled the flat of his hand on her hip.
The sun was in his eyes when Shaye Cates-Saunders approached. He squinted, took her in. A woman with curly blond hair, strong opinions, she was the driving force behind Barefoot William Enterprises. Warm and welcoming, she immediately went down on her blue-jeaned knees beside Quiggie. She was a hands-on animal lover.
“I heard there was a dog on the boardwalk, and I came to see for myself,” she told them.
The Cateses were a grapevine of news, Halo knew. What one person saw or heard was known to them all in a matter of seconds. “We’re aware of the no-dog regulation,” he said to Shaye. “His paws haven’t touched the boardwalk or pier.”
Shaye grinned at him. “I heard you were backpacking him.”
“So we’re cool? No fine?” he asked. A sign at the onset of the pier socked dog owners with one hundred dollars out of pocket for breaking the rule. He didn’t want Alyn to shoulder the expense. He’d write the check if a citation was issued.
Shaye looked from him to Alyn, and shook her head. “The pug is diapered. No accidents. We’re good.” She pushed up, then, added, “I was tracking you for a reason. To bring you this decal, so all’s legit.” She reached into the side pocket of her jeans, removed a miniature blue-and-white handicapped parking sticker. “Hook it on Quigley’s wheelchair,” she suggested. “I have no problem with him on the boardwalk. I hope he’s back on all four paws soon.”
Alyn exhaled, and sank farther into him. Relief softened her features. She hated to leave Quigs at the inn for any length of time. The pug could now go wherever they went.
“Thanks, Shaye,” he said.
Shaye eyed him then, closely. “I was at Media Day. Am I to believe you’re engaged? For real?”
He gave her a short nod. “For real.”
Her gaze shifted to Alyn. “To anyone I might know? To someone with a pug?”
“She guessed!” Danny returned, his mouth full from his visit with the fisherman. He’d apparently stopped at Cook It, and received a hush puppy. Eaten in one bite, or so it appeared. His cheeks bulged like a chipmunk’s.
“No guessing,” Shaye returned. “It’s obvious, to me, anyway. Let things evolve. I wish you well.”
“Thanks.” Halo had always liked Shaye. She was one savvy woman.
Beside him, Danny swallowed hard, burst out with, “Let’s ride the merry-go-round.” He took Alyn’s hand. “I want a horse next to Halo. He’s got long arms. He can grab the brass ring.”
“Let’s do it,” said Halo. “I’ll buy the tickets.”
“No need,” Shaye said. She produced an all-day, all-event pass from her back pocket. Handed it to Halo. “On me. Enjoy.”
She was being inordinately nice to him because he’d donated to her Island Walk Project. He lowered his voice, said, “You don’t have to do this, you know.”
Shaye whispered back, “Neither did you, but you did. I’m going to name a nature trail after you. Halo Run.”
He rather liked that. “Sounds all sunshine and serious exercise.”
“And scenic. The trail will cut through the middle of the island, showcasing natural vegetation and foliage.” She nudged him on his way. “You’d better go now. Your fiancée and her brother are waiting. Danny’s close to diving beneath the safety chains. Go catch the ring.”
Halo produced the pass to ride the carousel. Twice. It took him two tries to snag the brass ring. The ring scored them ten free tickets. To return on a later date.
They debated what to do next. Halo was too big for the rollercoaster and weighed too much for the Wave Swingers. Still, Danny pleaded to go. He was eight, which was the minimum age for riders. He dragged Alyn with him. His sister was reluctant.
The chairs were suspended from the rotating top of a red carousel; they tilted for additional variation of motion. Riders hung on tight as the chairs lifted and began to turn. The spinning accelerated.
Halo heard Danny’s whoop and Alyn’s shriek. The boy waved at him with every pass. His sister’s face was as pale as a cloud when the ride slowed, stopped. Halo was at her side when she slid off the chair, and into his arms. He liked holding her. Danny wanted to go again, but Alyn convinced him there was a lot to see and do. The swing ride would be there tomorrow.
A breeze cut in and out along the pier. Clouds gathered, providing cover against the heat of the day. They moved on to the bumper cars. The ride was deserted. Twenty cars were grouped along one wall, in numerical order. All were metallic black with racing stripes down the middle and silver numbers on the back. Thick rubber bumpers wrapped the frames.
Danny chose number one. Alyn went with three. Halo took sixteen. They settled into their cars and strapped on their seat belts. One size bumper car did not fit all. Halo struggled to sit. His knees banged the steering wheel. His elbows poked out the sides. He was uncomfortable as hell.
“Start your engines,” the operator shouted.
Small electronic cards drew power from the floor and ceiling. The cars vibrated. The metal floor gave a smooth ride.
Halo was at an immediate disadvantage. He couldn’t fully straighten out his foot to accelerate. The slight press of his toe was the extent of his power. He watched as Danny sped around the perimeter. Steering like a pro. Alyn was pedal to the metal. They soon got together and tag-teamed Halo.
“The sign at the entrance said NO HARD BUMPING,” Halo growled as Danny bumped him from the back, and Alyn rammed him head-on. Hard enough he went all bobble-head.
He managed to sideswipe them both. Only to have them gang up on him once again. Somehow they managed to angle in, bump, and spin his car around. Full circle. Brother and sister were getting the better of him. Halo let them. Their laughter rose above the noise of the cars. They high-fived each time they passed. They were having fun. The rides and games allowed grown-ups to be kids. He felt twelve, but quite big for his age.
The operator eventually shut off the power, and the cars stilled. They unbuckled and climbed out, meeting at the entrance. A crowd had gathered, and a line formed. Halo was recognized. He shook hands and signed autographs. Talked baseball. He introduced Danny as his contest winner. He looked around for Alyn; located her against the pier railing. She openly watched him with his fans, accepting his popularity.
The operator called for the next round of riders, and the line edged forward. Halo nudged Danny toward his sister. Then took her hand. She laced her fingers with his. There were curious stares and a few craned necks, which he ignored. Alyn might wish to remain his mystery woman, but he wanted her acknowledged. Wasn’t that the purpose of having a fiancée? Having her with him? Visible and available.
Danny bopped along beside them. Checking out every kiosk. Wide-eyed, he watched as a vendor hurled a boomerang out and over the Gulf, then it came back. He loved the colorful kites that lifted on the breeze.
He peered into the amusement arcade as they passed. “What’s next?” he asked Alyn. “Whack-A-Mole? Pinball?”
“Let’s check on Mom, Eleanor, and Quiggie,” she suggested.
Late afternoon, and the crowd had thinned considerably. Enough so that Quigley easily caught sight of them. He was beside himself to reach Alyn. He barked, whined, and began to scoot. He was awkward, but fast, and got past Martha. The older woman panicked.
Alyn raised her hand, eased her mother’s fear. “Let him come to us,” she said. Twenty feet separated them.
On the worn wooden boards of the pier, a very determined Quigley rolled his body side-to-side, generating enough energy to partially rise on one knee. He shook out his leg, as if trying to wake his paw. To stir feeling. Wobble, limp, wobble, his gait was lopsided, but steady.
Nearly to them, he quivered, breathed heavily, and tilted left. Alyn rushed to him then. She dropped down and cuddled the pug close. She massaged his stronger leg. Tears came with her praise. “Look at you, big guy. Trying to walk. Soon, Quigs, soon. You’ll be running to us.”
Halo stood beside her. He curved one hand over her shoulder, squeezed his own reassurance. “He’s getting sturdier.”
Martha was all choked up, and Danny, too. Eleanor joined them, talking to her cane. “The little fellow scuttled, Herman. A sign he’s healing.”
Halo had a good feeling, too. Quiggie Sparks deserved a reward. He left them, returning to the dog carrier near the bench. There, he located a small bowl, a bottle of water, and two biscuits in the zippered pocket.
Alyn delivered Quigs just as he filled the bowl. The pug chomped his Milk Bones. He had the occasional leg spasm, and his spine rippled once. Settling down, he rested his chin on his front paws, yawned. Content.
Martha returned to the bench. “Quigley will be fine now that he’s seen you, Alyn. He worries when you’re gone too long.”
“I worry about him, too.”
Halo gave Danny the choice of what to do next. “Your call, dude.”
Danny sighed. Rubbed his stomach. He glanced from the amusement arcade to the rollercoaster; from the food carts to the beach. He weighed the decision carefully. There was so much to do. More than one day could hold.
His stomach growled, and Martha made his decision for him. “Your tank’s running low, son. How about a basket of chili-cheese nachos? We could all use a snack.”
Danny was all for eating. Eleanor, too. She offered to treat them. Halo refused to let her pay. “Got it covered, Ellie,” he said. Eleanor blushed, seemingly pleased at his shortening of her name.
Martha gave Halo the eye, suggested, “Why don’t you and Alyn ride the Ferris wheel while we eat. Danny likes action rides like the chair swing over the Gulf, but he doesn’t like heights. Alyn could climb a mountain.”
Martha the matchmaker. Halo liked her idea. “I’m good with that. We’d have privacy to talk.”
Alyn nodded slowly, somewhat unsure, but agreeable.
It took Halo and Danny little time to locate the vendor who served nachos. The next metal cart over sold soft drinks. Halo bought an assortment. Once the snack was delivered, Halo pressed his palm to Alyn’s spine, and steered her toward the Ferris wheel. They arrived as the ride was being loaded. One passenger car remained. They slid onto the suspended aluminum seat.
Halo flashed the all-day pass. “We’d like a long ride,” he told the man. “We’ll signal when we’re ready to get off.”
“Sure thing. Not a problem.” The operator lowered the bar across their laps.
Another tight fit, Halo thought, but in this case, snug felt good. It beat the hell out of the bumper car. Alyn sat flush against him. Their shoulders brushed, and their hips and legs bumped. He took her hand as the ride jerked slightly, then swept upward. The wheel lifted them high. The view was magnificent; the entire boardwalk and pier stretched out before them. They sat in silence for three turns of the wheel.
Until he said, “You’ve gone quiet on me, babe.”
She gave him a small smile. “I was thinking how much my life has changed in a week.”
“For the better?”
“For the uncertain. We’ve a lot of variables between us.”
“Name one.”
“Can we pull off being engaged?”
“So far so good.”
“Four people know we’re a couple—Eleanor, my mom, Danny, and Shaye Cates-Saunders.”
He leaned forward. “You want me to stand up and shout it from the Ferris wheel?”
“Don’t you dare shake the seat.”
He settled back, grinned at her. “Let’s talk. A crash course in Halo 101. Ask me anything.”
“Where did we meet? Don’t go all rooster on me, and say a Rogues baseball game. We wore costumes at the game show. No one knows we were contestants.”
“Let’s keep the show between us. Our secret.” He ran his thumb along the side of her hand. Gentle, intimate, deepening the contact with his woman. “People see me as someone who’d never settle down. I’ve raised hell, drunk myself under the table, been with”—pause—“more than one woman.” He kept the number low, although given Alyn’s expression, she knew he’d had his fair share of ladies. They’d been available. He’d indulged.
She worried her bottom lip, mulled over possible scenarios. “You’re good with Quigley. We met in Richmond, while I was walking him, before his accident. Afterward, you stuck with me during his recovery.”
“You paint me in a good light.”
“You’d rather I paint you black and bad-ass?”
“That’s how most see me.”
“I don’t.”
He was damn glad she was giving him a chance. “I’m fine with the Quiggie angle. I like your dog. So where were you walking him? Park or sidewalk?” He needed visuals. Specifics.
“Centennial Park,” she decided. “Near my neighborhood.”
“What was I doing at the park?” He hadn’t been at a park since he was a kid. Not since he’d bounced his end of the teeter-totter hard on the ground, and sent his best friend flying. His buddy had bruised his tailbone on the landing. And later punched Halo in the nose. Made it bleed. Not an even trade-off.
“There’s a recreational center on the grounds. Do you ever participate in youth activities?”
“On occasion. Workable.” In the off-season lots of ballplayers made impromptu stops to hang with the kids and meet their fans. To toss a baseball.
“You were immediately interested in me, but took it slow.”
He shook his head. “We had instant chemistry. Made love that night.”
She laughed in his face. Almost hysterically. “Never happened.”
“Two dates, then.”
“No one’s going to ask when we slept together.”
Sex made for a better story. “We’ve dated for what? A couple months.”
“Followed by a long, platonic engagement.”
He released a frustrated breath. “Platonic stays with us. No need to share my blue balls.”
She ducked her head, blushed. “It has to be that way, Halo. Sex complicates relationships. We’re complicated enough.”
The Ferris wheel slowed, stopped to let several groups off. Halo saw Danny wave, and he waved back. The boy sat on the bench beside his mother, leaning against her side, his head on her shoulder. Recharging.
“Danny’s a neat kid,” he told Alyn.
“He’s so happy to be here. No one would fault you for choosing him as your contest winner despite the connection of our engagement. We recently lost our dad. He wrote a sympathetic letter. You gave him the gift of spring training.”
“Danny was a shoe-in.” No one would dare argue with his choice. His decision was his own. Period. He had additional questions for her. “How do we share a free Saturday afternoon? Movie, shopping mall, sporting event?”
She eyed him. “I can’t picture you antiquing.”
He couldn’t either. Neither would his buddies. Too girlie.
“How about if we volunteer at a senior citizens retirement village,” she suggested. “Play games. Bingo to horseshoes.”
“I like old people.” Frank Cates, Rylan’s grandfather, was one cool dude at eighty-eight.
“What about fun, Alyn? Since we’re not having sex—” Yet, he assured himself. He hadn’t given up on sleeping with her. “What sets you free?”
“I like to rollerblade. Read. Take long walks.”
“I’ve never rollerbladed. I prefer to see the movie before I read the book. I jog instead of walk.”
“We have so much in common.”
Alyn’s sarcasm made him smile. The Ferris wheel again turned. Halo shifted on the seat, sliding his arm about her shoulders. He kissed her temple, her cheek, then blew in her ear, bit her earlobe. Lightly. She lurched forward.
Lady’s ears were sensitive. Good to know. He braced his free arm across her chest. “Careful, babe, no nosedive.”
She tried to scoot away from him, but he squeezed her even closer. “Your best and worst trait?” he asked her.
“I believe in people, covers both.”
He understood. She saw the best in people, took them at their word, yet they continually let her down. Still, she kept believing. Some would say that was good; others would call her foolish. Halo had no intention of hurting her feelings.
“My best and worst traits walk a fine line,” he told her. “I push myself. I’m aggressive, competitive, and like to win.”
“Strong traits for an athlete,” she said admiringly.
“I’ve made life a competition,” he admitted. “I thrive on rivalry. Sometimes I find myself holding my breath, unable to exhale.”
“Holding your breath will only turn your face as blue as your balls.”
No truer statement was ever spoken. She was teasing him, and he liked it. He realized in that moment that Alyn brought a calm to his life that he’d never experienced with another woman. She allowed him to breathe. She didn’t expect him to show up nightly at bars, to buy drinks and get drunk. To be the center of attention. To get rowdy. To spin out of control. She anchored him. He liked being grounded. It was new to him. But felt right.
She pointed to a couple near the entrance to the Ferris wheel. The ride had stopped, and they stepped forward. Both carried boxes of popcorn and soft drinks. They appeared nervous. “First date?” Alyn wondered.
She’d no sooner spoken, than the man tripped. He fell forward, into the woman, and they both went down. Their popcorn got tossed and their drinks spilled. The operator was quick to help them up, then to sweep away the mess. The couple brushed popcorn off each other’s clothes, and their smiles curved. The woman actually laughed.
“Shit happens,” said Halo. “No harm, no need to be self-conscious. Snacks can be replaced.”
Alyn nudged him with her elbow. “Your most embarrassing moment?”
He ran one hand down his face. “Besides wearing the rooster costume?”
“There has to be something worse.”
There was. Halo didn’t embarrass easily. However there was that time when he was fourteen. “I dated a girl in high school who had braces. And really big boobs. Her father was a minister. Really strict dude. No hand holding. No kissing. He’d read a Bible verse before each date. I faced an interrogation when I brought Mary Theresa home.”
“All those rules, and you stayed with her?”
“Bided my time. Big boobs, Alyn,” he emphasized. “That’s all a sophomore sees when he stares at a girl.”
“Blinded by breasts. You dated young.”
“I was old for my age. We had group dates until I finally got her alone. Storeroom at the church, during Sunday service. We were surrounded by stacks of hymnals and sacramental wine.”
“Hallelujah.”
He grunted. “Not quite. We kissed, and I managed to feel her up. Major fumble, and my wrist looped in the elastic of her bra strap. Twisted. I was snared.”
Alyn giggled. A commiserating giggle for a horny teenage boy trapped in an awkward situation. “What happened next?”
“We were still getting it on, kissing, when I jerked my hand, only to have her strap tighten. The elastic nearly cut off the circulation in my hand. Mary Theresa was startled, bit down on my tongue. A wire popped on her braces, and stuck in my lip, like a fish hook.”
“You’re making this up.”
He touched his finger to the corner of his mouth. “I still have the scar.” No more than a pinprick, yet still visible, if someone looked closely. Alyn did.
“A very bad moment,” Halo continued. “We’re banging around in the dark, my hand up her shirt, wire locking our lips, when her dad flips the light switch. Seems we made enough noise during silent prayer to draw him from the pulpit.”
“Last date?”
“Satan escorted me from the church, or so her dad said. Bloody-lipped and sinful.” He shouldered her. “Your turn now.”
“I’ve nothing to compare to your story.”
“Give me something, anything.”
“You’re going to keep after me until I do?”
“Damn straight.”
“Fine.” Her sigh was heavy. “Several years ago, I was on the board of advisors for the Richmond Fine Arts League,” she said. “Literacy, art, drama.”
“Sounds snobby.”
“It wasn’t. The board supported community participation in all aspects of the arts. Small theater groups, book clubs, music, art shows. It was fall, and a drama ensemble produced Fuchsia Duct Tape, a renowned murder mystery by Fuqua Ducstan.”
“Never heard of him.”
“He’s as famous to Broadway as you are to baseball,” she noted. “The play was performed in the Griffin-Hill amphitheater.”
“I know the place. It’s close to our stadium. They host a lot of rock concerts.”
“I met Ducstan at a cocktail party.”
“I didn’t take you for social.”
“Not as social as you,” she stated. “I get out on occasion. This was a special event. Fuqua and I hit it off. He requested that I introduce him the night of the play. In front of hundreds of people.”
“Sounds like an honor,” said Halo.
“Sorta was, sorta wasn’t. I later found out everyone else on the board had declined the honor.”
“Why?”
“Try saying Fuqua Ducstan’s Fuchsia Duct Tape.”
He did. Slow, then fast. “It’s a tongue-twister.”
“Worse when you’re nervous.”
“So what did you butcher?”
“I stood on the stage in a long black dress, beneath dimming lights, and presented him as ‘fuck a duck’ before God, a packed amphitheater, and the players.”
Halo couldn’t help himself, he laughed. A gut-busting laugh. “Oh, babe, priceless.”
Alyn hung her head. “There were a few snorts, several coughs into the hand, but mostly silence. A stiff-necked audience.” She scrunched her nose. “I resigned from the board, and was embarrassed for days.”
“Not so bad.”
“Not so good, either.”
“We’ve both shown our asses.”
“You more than me in that rooster suit.”
“I’ve been told I have a great butt.”
“You . . . do.” Her voice was as soft as the breeze.
He glanced at his watch. They’d ridden the Ferris wheel for twenty minutes now. Danny would be getting restless. The sun had shifted, and the beach umbrella no longer protected Martha and Eleanor. He didn’t want them sunburned. It was time to collect Quigley and move on. Still, he gave himself an extra minute. He’d yet to kiss his girl. No one rode the Ferris wheel without sneaking a kiss. It was tradition. He’d noticed, with the last turn, that the couple who’d spilled their popcorn had locked lips. Nice.
Unknowingly, the operator stopped the ride once they’d reached the very top. People got off, others got on. His time was now. Halo rolled his hip, and his thigh pinned hers. She tilted her head, met his gaze. There was both reservation and need in her eyes. Damn if he didn’t hesitate. “I want to kiss you.” He was asking, not taking. A first for him.
“You have one turn of the wheel.”
He smoothed his mouth over hers. Smiled against her lips. “I’m taking two.”