“Okay.”
“Uh, is there a hotel there?”
“Not a hotel proper. But a friend of mine runs a nice B and B.”
“Okay. Take me there.”
“Will do.”
As they drove toward town, Brynna tried to gather her thoughts and concoct a plan of some sort. But all she really wanted to do was go to bed. She felt so tired she thought she could probably sleep for several days. And maybe that was what she’d do. Just sleep it all off. Maybe when she woke up, life would look better.
Chapter 24
With Judith’s arm entwined in his, Leroy watched the trail of dust behind the taxicab. He knew he should be relieved that she was gone, but instead he felt even angrier. Why had she done this? Why?
“Come on, Leroy,” Judith cooed at him. “The girls are waiting.”
He just nodded, allowing her to lead him up to the terrace. Once they got there, he excused himself to wash up, but instead of heading to the bathroom, he went out the front door, jumped into his Jeep, and took off. At first, he drove toward the highway, determined to catch up with the taxi and demand a full explanation from Brynna. But then he slowed down and, feeling totally confused, turned the Jeep around and headed over to Sophie’s. Maybe she could give him an explanation.
He parked in front of his daughter’s house and waved as he got out. Sophie was seated in a camping chair, and the kids were kicking a soccer ball back and forth across the front lawn.
“Dad!” she exclaimed happily as he came into the yard. “What’re you doing here? The kids and I already had dinner, but I’ve got leftovers warming for when Garth gets home. There’s plenty if you want—”
“I’m not hungry.”
“Oh?” She frowned. “What’s up?”
“Just stopped by to say hi.” He took the chair next to her, blowing out a loud breath of air as he sat down.
“Are you okay?”
Before he could answer, the kids were tugging on him, each pulling one arm and begging him to play ball with them.
“You two leave your pappy alone,” Sophie scolded. “He doesn’t always have to play with you.”
“Oh, it’s okay.” He started to stand, but Sophie stopped him.
“Why don’t you show Pappy your gymnastic skills, Lucy?” she said quickly. “Show him your cartwheels and somersaults. You were doing them beautifully earlier.”
“I can somersault,” Addison declared. Suddenly both children were doing tricks on the lawn, competing for Leroy’s attention.
“So, what’s up, Dad?” Sophie asked under her breath. “I can tell something’s bugging you.”
“When’s Garth going to be home?” He peered down toward the road.
“He just called a few minutes ago, said he was almost home.” Sophie leaned back, rubbing her belly. “And not a moment too soon.”
Leroy grew nauseous. Her due date was more than a month off, but you never knew. “Are you okay, honey?”
“Yes, Dad.” She rolled her eyes. “Just worn out is all.” She sighed. “I don’t have the same energy I had when I was pregnant with Addison. I’m so glad that I hired Bree. I can’t imagine what I’d have done without her.”
Leroy cringed inwardly.
“There’s Garth’s pickup now.” She pointed to the road.
“Is it okay if I talk to you privately?” Leroy quietly asked her. “After Garth gets here?”
She looked alarmed now. “Yes, of course. What’s wrong?”
