“Make a good cobbler with those if you get some berries as well,” the woman added.
Branna was used to walking around a crowded supermarket in Washington without saying a word; she’d frequented the same one for five years and never conversed with anyone unless absolutely necessary. This was another thing that she needed to adjust to here in Howling. It seemed that her “I don’t really like to talk much” sign wasn’t flashing neon.
“I was thinking of a chicken apricot dish,” she said, surprising herself.
The woman sucked on her teeth, the lines on her face deepening as she thought about what Branna had said. “May work, but I’m not partial to mixing my sweets and savories too much. Still, you be sure to let me know how it turns out.”
“I will, and you have a good day,” Branna added.
Moving along, she began to navigate the canned food section. It was about adjusting. She could do that, and would have to if she planned to stay in Howling. She didn’t want to be known as that woman—the one who lives in Georgie’s old place, has thirty-seven cats, and doesn’t leave her house.
“Hey, Branna, how’s the head doing now?”
Penny Bilks gave her a wide smile from across the aisle.
“Much better, thanks, Penny.” Branna didn’t hold grudges, and in all honesty, Penny’s intervention had helped her, she could see that now, even if it did put Jake McBride on her doorstep.
“Good morning, Branna.”
Branna turned to look at who else had spoken. She thought about making a run for it. Macy Reynolds was approaching with a man. Dressed in snug-fitting, red Capris, a tight, stretchy, white top that hugged every curve, and a red pair of slip-on heels. Her perfectly made-up face held a cold expression.
“Macy.” Branna nodded.
“This is my husband, Brian Delray,” Macy said. “Brian, this is Branna O’Donnell.”
Macy said the words reluctantly, almost as if she didn’t want Branna to meet her husband.
“Miss O’Donnell.” Brian Delray held out his hand, which Branna shook.
He had a nice, open face, neat dark hair, and soft brown eyes. His clothes, unlike his wife’s, were understated—a pair of gray trousers with a sharp edge ironed in the fronts, a pristine white shirt with pale gray pin stripes, and a matching tie. His shoes were polished black leather. Branna could only imagine the life this man led at the hands of the barracuda at his side.
“I hope you’re settling in well, Branna. Georgie’s place needs a bit of work from what I remember. If it gets too much, you let me know,” Macy’s husband said.
“I’m sure she can cope, Brian, especially as the house was a gift.” Macy’s words sounded almost shrill, and Branna felt another tug of sympathy for the man.
“So, how long have you two been married?” Branna asked when they fell into a heavy silence.
“Six years now, and we’re very happy,” Brian said with another gentle smile.
“I-I, ah…” Branna felt the heat of embarrassment fill her cheeks. Did he know what she’d been thinking? She didn’t know what to say; the thought of this gentle soul being in the clutches of someone like Macy Reynolds was just plain wrong.
“Branna? Branna O’Donnell? How long has it been since we saw each other?”
This day was just getting weirder by the minute. Now, a big, dark-haired man, who looked like he’d stepped off a billboard, was sauntering toward her, his smile wide and genuine. She had no idea who he was, but he seemed to know her. Looking closer, she wondered if he’d gone to school with her. She couldn’t remember anyone who had eyes that particular blue, and his accent had a Texan twang to it.
He didn’t stop as he reached her, just wrapped his big arms around her, placing a smacking kiss on one cheek. Then, tucking her into his side, he stuck out one large hand to Brian, who was watching the proceedings with a slightly stunned expression on his handsome face, while his wife’s mouth had puckered in disapproval.
“Ethan Gelderman the 5th.” His words were as smooth as heated honey and rolled off his tongue.
“Brian Delray, and this is my wife, Macy. You’re not a local, Mr. Gelderman?”
“No, but I love your little town, Mr. Delray, and it holds even more appeal now that I know the first woman I ever loved lives in it.”
She had to fight the urge to laugh. She knew he was making it up then, but why? Furthermore, why was she going along with him when normally she would run a mile if anyone touched her like he was? Funny how she didn’t feel threatened by him.
“Let’s go, honey. I’m hungry. Hustle that sweet little butt of yours along and we’ll head over to Buster’s for a coffee,” Ethan then said.
Smiling at Brian and Macy Reynolds-Delray, Branna raised a hand before letting him lead her away.
