Violet’s heart was still racing from the encounter with the man. Once Speedy had sent her to the truck, she’d started calming down, but she’d kept an eye on the men to make sure Speedy didn’t need help. Not that she knew what she’d do to help. Speedy’s question of whether she carried pepper spray or a stun gun had her realizing maybe she needed to.
“I don’t but I think I should,” she said.
Speedy nodded, his dark hair moving. Some nights, she imagined him lying beside her and being able to run her fingers through his hair, but he’d given zero indication he was interested in her.
“The bail bonds keep some on hand. I’m surprised Beth didn’t drop it off in a welcome basket,” he said.
Violet grinned. “When I moved in, it was while she was in Texas with Flick on assignment. I’m sure she would have but she was a tad distracted.”
Violet liked the sound of Speedy’s laughter.
“I imagine they were both distracted. July was definitely a whirlwind of events,” he said.
Violet could listen to the sound of Speedy’s voice forever. It was deep and soothing.
“It was. I’m sorry about your parents. I’m sure the holidays are hard,” Violet said. She’d never had a supportive parent, but from all accounts, Speedy’s parents had been wonderful.
“Thank you, and thanks for the muffins and card you dropped off. They were really good,” he said.
“You’re welcome. I know food doesn’t make the pain go away, but it’s a little sweet to know that someone is thinking of you.”
She hoped she hadn’t made him sad talking about his parents, but she also didn’t want to ignore it.
“How’s your job at the daycare going?” he asked.
She smiled. “Oh, I love it. The kids are so fun, and since it’s been Thanksgiving break, some of the older kids have dropped in at different times.”
Speedy laughed. “I bet that’s been interesting.”
Violet shook her head. “It definitely brings its own unique set of opportunities. The younger kids get a little irritated with the older ones being there to boss them around. I love them all and it’s fun to see siblings interacting. I’m an only child and didn’t have that growing up.”
Violet was being diplomatic because she did love the kids but also didn’t want to say anything that might end up getting the kids in trouble. Phoebe and Blake had been there the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Violet had worried what exactly the girls would do, but they’d been perfect. But she had heard whispering about some type of attack they were planning.
Stella had been there and listened in. She’d told Violet she had nothing to worry about.
“I’m the oldest of three siblings. My younger brother is serving overseas in the Army, and my younger sister is an accountant in Texas. I told her a couple weeks ago that I had decided to stay in Kansas. She loves her life in Texas and isn’t interested in moving here,” Speedy said.
“So you’re staying in Kansas?” Violet asked. She’d been concerned he’d leave. Even though she figured she didn’t stand a chance with him, as long as he was here, she could still dream about it.
“Yes. It’s become home to me. I’ll always love Cider Creek for giving me a place, but Bluff Creek is where I want to stay.”
Speedy parked the tow truck.
“I’ll get started on this tomorrow and figure out what’s wrong. Let’s get in for lunch. I don’t want to miss Regina’s fried chicken,” he said.
Violet nodded and got out of the truck. She didn’t want to miss the fried chicken either. She’d tried making it for herself, but it never tasted like Regina’s.
Speedy held the door for her and she walked in. There was a place by Beth and one by War. Well, she guessed this was the end of her time with Speedy. Darn it.
“Thank you,” she said.
“You’re welcome. Make sure you ask Beth for the pepper spray and a stun gun,” he said.
She would because she didn’t ever want to feel that helpless feeling she’d had until Speedy arrived today.
Chapter Four
Speedy led the riders as they returned from the toy run. They’d had a drop-off point in Pratt, KS, for the Toys for Tots program run by the Marines.
