“Sure, Jake.”
“You look a little pale.”
He had Rose in his arms, so Macy stalled by planting a loud kiss on the little girl’s cheek.
“How's the sweetest thing in Howling?”
“Stop using my daughter as a distraction.”
“Can we discuss this later, Jake? Please.”
He studied her.
“So there is a something bothering you?”
She nodded.
“Your mom here?”
“No.”
Macy knew he was trying to find a reason for her mood.
“You run into Nadine Buchanan and her hired bullies? I saw them earlier.”
“No again.”
“So, who's for the food area? I need a beer, and it’s time to annoy Buster,” Annabelle said, and much to Macy's relief drew Jake's attention.
Newman and Cubby were released, shirts wet and looking pissed off.
“Lowlife Texans,” the sheriff snarled. “I should run you out of town.”
“Speaking of lowlifes being run out of town, what's the deal with Nadine and the Falkirk boys being here, Sheriff?” Ethan said.
“Can't stop them from being here, and can only make a move if they offer up a bribe or display some disorderly conduct. They sure didn’t take my advice and get permission to come, if that’s what you’re asking.”
“I don't like seeing them here,” Annabelle said.
“I could only count two people in my head who would possibly take a bribe, Annabelle. It’s all right for them to be here, and in fact my money's on the locals making them feel downright uncomfortable.”
“I hope you're right, Branna.”
They all started heading to the food stalls, and Brad fell in beside her while Billy ran ahead holding Annabelle's hand.
“Cubby,” Macy called as he went to walk by her.
“You all good there, Macy?”
“Cubby, I got something tonight, and I need to come to the Lair and talk to you about it, okay?”
His hand settled on her shoulder.
“You okay?”
“Sure.” Macy nodded. “It's Brian, Cubby. He sent me some pictures, and I need you to take them, because I don't want them, or to see them ever again.”
The sheriff's eyes shot to Brad and back to her.
