Bruce tied the tow rope to her car, motioning for her to get inside and start it."Once I pull you free, step on the brakes so it doesn't roll into me, okay?"
"Got it!"Shelley chirped, flashing a bright smile.
Within moments, Bruce had freed the car that wasn't buried too deeply in the sand.
"Yeehaw!"Shelley squealed, throwing her hands in the air."Bruce, you've saved the damsel in distress!How can I ever repay you?"
Bruce chuckled as he unhooked the tow rope."No need for that, miss.I'll turn your car around so you don't get stuck again.Then you can head on out, and I'll get back to my peace and quiet."
"Fair enough," Shelley said with a gracious nod.She stepped back, letting him drive the car up the road to a safe turnaround spot.While he wasn't looking, she stealthily dropped her oversized sunglasses into the sandy ditch.A breadcrumb she'd need later.
Back at her hotel, Shelley's plan took shape.Bruce already thought she was some kind of movie star, so why not lean into it?She'd claim she wanted to avoid the tourist boat to the Lagoon and needed a more discreet way in.With any luck, he'd take the bait.Tomorrow, she'd bring the blank tapes and hope for the right moment to make the switch.
As she climbed into bed, a sly smile spread across her face.This could work.
The next evening, Shelley navigated the sandy road with precision, staying firmly in the middle this time.Getting stuck two days in a row would have been suspicious.She reached the gate, but now came the hard part: how to get inside.
Her dilemma didn't last long.The guard dogs came bounding toward her, barking loudly, followed closely by Bruce, who was making his rounds.
"Lisa?"he called, squinting at the gate.When he saw her oversized hat and sunglasses that she'd retrieved, he barked out a laugh."Well, I'll be!You've got better shoes on tonight, at least."He pointed at her sneakers.
Shelley grinned."Lesson learned.Those sandals were a mistake I'm still paying for."
Bruce crossed his arms, leaning casually against the gate."So, what brings you back here?Didn't you see the 'No Trespassing' sign?"He gestured at the massive sign.
"Well, Bruce, you were such a lifesaver yesterday, I couldn't leave it at that.I brought you something the woman at the hotel said you'd love."
She unveiled a fried chicken and fries dinner with a dramatic flourish, the scent wafting in the evening air.
Bruce's eyes widened."You've got to be kidding me!That's the best fried chicken on the island."He took a deep breath, savouring the aroma."Hold on, let me put these dogs away, or they'll eat better than me tonight."
The dogs wagged their tails as Bruce guided them into the Jeep, tossing them a treat before locking the doors.After securing the dogs, he opened the gate and gestured for Shelley to come inside.
"Come on, then.If you're going to bribe me with fried chicken, the least I can do is share."
Shelley laughed, stepping inside."You're too kind.Lead the way."
Bruce gave her a good-natured smile but kept his guard up.Something about her was both amusing and suspicious.For now, though, he figured a little company wouldn't hurt.
Chapter 44
Almost famous
BruceledShelleyalongthe pathway toward the lab and trainer's office.Her head kept turning toward the expansive lagoon, where dolphins surfaced gracefully, their movements breaking the calm water.
"Wow!They're incredible," Shelley said with genuine admiration, a rare moment of sincerity breaking through her usual façade.Her job back home was mostly data analysis, but the fleeting moments she spent near the animals were always a highlight.
"They sure are," Bruce replied, his tone warm.Then, with a sidelong glance, he added, "Now, I don't mean to pry, but you seem pretty determined not to show up during the day like a regular tourist.What's the story?"
Shelley's pulse quickened.She'd have to handle this delicately."You're right," she admitted, layering her voice with a touch of vulnerability."I'd rather avoid the crowds.Now, I'm not super famous, but I've done some acting.It's practically a rite of passage in California, right?I wanted to enjoy this place without all the attention.Hence, getting stuck yesterday."She gave Bruce a smile she hoped looked earnest.
Bruce studied her for a moment before nodding."Fair enough.Well, I can't take you any closer to the dolphins, but we could sit out on the deck and watch them while you help me with dinner.How's that sound?"
"Perfect," Shelley said quickly, relieved.Guilt pricked at her for deceiving the kind-hearted man, but she forced it aside.
Bruce motioned for her to follow him up the stairs to the trainer's office."Grab the food, and we'll get plates and napkins from inside."
Inside the lab, Shelley's gaze swept the room, carefully cataloging her surroundings.The lagoon was mesmerizing, but the real prize sat only a few feet away: a small TV with a stack of videotapes beside it.Gray's meticulous labelling was unmistakable.Bingo.
