Ms. Hazel brings out our food herself, carefully placing mine in front of me. She also brings extra items that we didn’t ask for, such as soups, salads, and fruit.
I eat fast since I only have limited time. Everyone eats in silence, and I notice Sylvie inhales her food extra fast. She eats most of the fruit by herself, and when we’re almost done eating, Ms. Hazel brings a platter of assorted desserts.
I pass on mine, and Sylvie eats it.
Cori kicks me under the table and mimics like she’s signing something. Having no idea what she’s talking about, I kick her back.
“Alright, ladies, take your time, but I do need this booth, if you would be so kind.”
Cori raises an eyebrow, and I shrug. Even Sylvie frowns at Ms. Hazel’s words.
“And your lunch is taken care of. Have a good day.” She leans down and rubs my shoulder.
Selene, who is at the end of the booth with Cori, stands abruptly. “Well, let’s go. I know you have appointments, and I have reports to write.”
Cori follows her out of the booth and pulls Sylvie out. We speedwalk out of the diner and wave to Ms. Hazel on the way out.
“Eden, can you help Mom watch the kids Saturday night? Dad’s working, and Levar’s boss is having a birthday party.” For someone asking a favor, Sylvie sounds entitled instead of grateful.
I love my nieces and nephews, but after working fifty to sixty hours in five days, the last thing I want to do is watch kids on a Saturday night. But I do want to spend more time with them now that I’m home.
“Sure,” I concede.
She mutters an unconvincing thank you and walks away, claiming she’s going home to nap.
“Oh my God,” Cori says once Sylvie is gone. “He’s going to pay for all your meals from now on.”
“He’s already been doing it,” Selene says. “And we get to participate, but the shit’s about to hit the fan. Ms. Hazel already knows.”
Chapter 30
Rip
Predictable motherfucker.
Sheriff Rose tries his best to yank the door of one of Shadow Cove’s convenience stores. Dax bought it three years ago through one of his LLCs, and the previous owner was able to retire. He never officially opened it, and we use it to do business.
Dax sighs but raises both hands, signaling that this is my fight.
“No bloodshed,” he warns.
“Open this fucking door. I know you’re in there,” Rose says as he kicks it.
It’s a solid steel door, and he’ll break his leg before he can make a dent. Dax walks away, and moments later, I hear him close his office door.
Rose kicks again, and I let him in. He rushes past me, puts both hands on my chest, and pushes me against the wall. I raise both hands and don’t make a move to push him back. He’s a big man, but I’m bigger, younger, and stronger. He shoves meagain, but I’m already against the wall and there is nowhere for me to go.
He finally steps away. I remain stoic and wait for him to speak.
“Not my daughter,” he spits out.
I don’t answer.
“Her mother’s car was parked at your house until this morning. I know she was with you when I called.”
“Then you also know she was okay.”
“I won’t allow you to use my daughter. She’s mychild. She’s just a kid. I don’t want her involved in your seedy—”
