“I don’t want to leave you alone.”
He pushed the shopping cart while she made some quick selections of tee shirts and jeans, then headed for the drugstore section, where she picked up deodorant and moisturizer.
In some ways, it was such an ordinary domestic shopping trip. A man and his girlfriend buying a few things for a weekend getaway.
When she glanced at him, he knew she’d caught the thought.
But it’s something I never expected to share.
Yes,she answered.
When she pulled out her credit card at the cash register, he shook his head.
“I’d better pay cash.”
Right. I wasn’t thinking.
I can use the money I took from Baldy.
She laughed.Perfect. And your gambling winnings.
Yeah, there’s that.
They finished up quickly, then headed for the town she’d mentioned. On the outskirts, she pointed to a bed and breakfast called Morning Glory that advertised cottages.
“What about there?”
He slowed and looked at the place, knowing it appealed to her.
“How are we going to pay?” she asked. “If we can’t use a credit card.”
“I still have money from that thug. He had a lot of cash on him.”
“Yes. Good.”
“Stay in the car while I register.”
When she gave him a questioning look, he explained. “I don’t want us seen together, if possible.”
When he stepped into the office, he saw a middle-aged woman sitting at the desk. Her name tag said “Helen Marcos.”
“Can I help you?” she asked.
“My wife and I have been traveling around the area, and we’d like a nice room. In a private cottage, if possible.”
“Magnolia Cottage is one of my best. It’s got a bedroom and a sitting room and a large bathroom with a separate tub and shower.”
“That sounds perfect.”
He took the key and went back to the car. “I have a room I think you’ll like,” he said, feeling the tightness in his chest.
They’d both heard the phrase, “get a room.” They both knew why they were getting this one.
The cottage was white clapboard, with green shutters and a couple of wicker rocking chairs on the porch.
“Nice,” Stephanie murmured as she inspected the exterior.
They were careful not to touch each other as they gathered their things.
