Weren’t they?
Chapter Nine
Worship music played from the radio set on the counter. Maegan sang along, singing praises as she rearranged several displays to make room for a trunk show next week. A new indie dyer she’d found online had agreed to dye several custom colorways, and Maegan couldn’t wait to see what Nya, the dyer, came up with.
The bell chimed, and Judah walked in wearing his deputy’s uniform, tan utility pants and a black polo with the town’s crest embroidered on the chest. Tomorrow marked three weeks since they’d begun their fake romance, but the flutter in her heart tried to confuse reality and their scheme.
“Hi,” she greeted, setting down a basket of yarn. “I didn’t expect to see you today, but I’m not disappointed. Unless you’ve come to tell me I’ve been involved in a crime I can’t remember, but we both know I remember anything and everything, even the conversations the dentists had when I was under anesthesia getting my wisdom teeth removed.”
Chuckling, he shook his head. “You’re clear of any crimes.”
“That’s a relief.”
“I come bearing good news and bad news.” He leaned against the checkout counter with his hands propped behind him.
“Tell me the good news first.” She set down the duster she’d used to clean the shelf.
“I got off work early.”
“And the bad news?”
“Boss is sending me to a conference this weekend. A spot opened, and he wants me there.”
As the information processed in her mind, the consequences dawned on her, and she frowned. “You’ll miss the jazz club night.”
He nodded slowly. “I’m sorry. I was really looking forward to it.”
“Me too.” She tried to squelch her disappointment. Life happened, and she would adapt.
“We can try again next month,” he said, offering a hopeful smile.
“Of course.” Moving beside him, she joined him in leaning against the counter. “Where’s the conference?”
Judah paused. “Charlotte.”
“That’s great. You’ll get to see your family.”
“Yeah.” His voice lacked any sense of conviction.
“What’s going on?” she asked gently.
“I left to clear my head, and it’s barely been a month that I’ve been here.” He turned to his side and looked at her. “For the first time in a long time, I’m happy. I’m at peace. What if I get to Charlotte and find out all that was surface level. I don’t want to go back to the person I was.”
Showing support, she covered his hand with hers, ignoring the spark. “You are one of the strongest people I know, and you can’t say that I don’t know the real you since we’ve known each other three weeks. The time we’ve spent together and the intense conversations we’ve had have allowed me to see thestrength, courage, and integrity inside of you. Your faith has only deepened since I’ve known you, and you will lean on that when faced with painful memories in Charlotte.”
He drew a long breath, then held it before releasing it slowly. “Thank you. I feel far from strong some days, but you are right. My faith will carry me through.”
“Plus, you have friends and a support system now in Dogwood Creek. This community has adopted you as one of their own. If you get to Charlotte and need a friend, you can call me any time, day or night.” She gave his hand a squeeze before releasing it.
“I appreciate that.” He pursed his lips. “Is it bad that I asked if someone else could go instead?”
“Doesn’t hurt to ask, but I’m assuming the answer was no since you’re here telling me you’re going.”
“Actually, he did give me an out, but once he explained the conference and why he chose me, I couldn’t say no.”
She stood upright and tilted her head with curiosity. “Why is that?”
“Many law enforcement agencies are bringing in mental health professionals to bridge a needed gap, but most smaller agencies can’t afford that, even when they recognize the benefit. This conference seeks to equip officers in those smaller law enforcement organizations with the tools and trainings to help the mentally ill in crisis mode when called upon for assistance.” He paused for a breath. “I’m told I was specifically chosen because I’ve already been recognized for my compassion and patience.”
