He saw Macy in the eyes, but not much else as the man’s face was drawn, and like the rest of him, wasting away. His breathing was harsh, and Brad didn't know much about illness, or have a lot of experience with death, but he knew when it was circling.
“Bet your brother was pleased you arrived for his wedding.”
“He was.” Brad didn't add the word shocked.
“You got the look of him.”
“I was just thinking the same about your daughter. I can see where she comes from now.”
“I’m sorry to drag you here, love.”
Mr. Reynolds held out his hand, and his daughter clutched it between both of hers.
“I was coming anyway, so don't give it a thought,” Macy lied smoothly as she fussed with his covers. Obviously her father had forgotten she worked. “Now, have you had something to eat today? Want me to make you some eggs?”
“If I say no you'll still do it anyway, so yes.”
She laughed, then hesitated.
“Go, we'll be fine,” Brad said to her.
“I won't be long.”
Pulling up a chair, Brad sat beside the bed.
“I've been in this town for a few days, Mr. Reynolds, and I have to say it's not your regular place.”
The man chuckled.
“I've been given a nickname, forced into a pair of shorts when I went in to the general store for supplies, and don’t get me started on this business with putting my purchases in a book at the Hoot to settle up later.”
His smile was the same as his daughter’s, and Brad felt sad that he wouldn’t be around to see more of them.
“This town is not normal, Brad. It's the people, they're some of the best and most trustworthy you'll ever meet.”
“I've figured that out, but that secret can stay between us. These people already believe they’re better than anyone stupid enough to live outside Lake Howling’s borders.”
“Well, you are.”
“We can’t all live here, Mr. Reynolds, pretty soon you’d be full.”
“Harvey, and we’re fussy about who we let in, but I think you might have a chance seeing as you’re Ethan’s brother.”
He yawned and Brad guessed the fall had taken it out of him.
“You want me to leave?”
“Mostly I only get to talk to women, Jake, and that wonderful grandson of mine, so stay a bit if you have the time.”
Brad nodded, not entirely comfortable, but aware that he wouldn’t deny this man what he wanted.
“What's between you and Macy?”
Surprise held him silent.
“Son, when you’re dying, you can't afford to be polite and go through the usual preliminaries of getting to know a person.”
Brad looked into Harvey Reynolds’ eyes. The man was awake on all fronts, for all he was sick and exhausted.
