Shelby did a double take. “Really?”
“They’re bonding over their mutual dislike of Grayson Briggs.”
“Terrific.”
“From my perspective it’s working out great. Did he show up today?”
“He’s down in the office.”
As if summoned by their conversation, footfalls sounded on the back staircase, then Gray appeared at the top. He moved toward them with that fluid stride that bordered on a strut.
“Holy cannoli,” Liddy whispered.
“Shut it. You’re supposed to be on my side.”
“I’m 100 percent on your side, but he sure is pretty to look at.”
Gray’s gaze flickered Liddy’s way before settling on Shelby. “I’m about to call it a day. We’re caught up on the inventory.”
“Already?” There’d been dozens of boxes.
“Gray!” Daryl’s stool crashed behind him as he bolted to his feet and rounded the counter. He lumbered toward Gray, beaming.
What in the world?
“Daryl. Hey, good to see you, friend. What are you doing here?”
“I work here, Gray! Well, sometimes I do. Don’t I, Shelby? I get icecream money. Do you live here again? We can shoot hoops at the park. I still live by the park. Do you still live by the park?”
“Not anymore. I’m just here for a visit.” Gray’s gaze skated to Shelby. “I’m helping out at the store for a while.”
These two had obviously spent time together years ago before Gray had moved in with his grandma. He’d never mentioned it. But Gray must’ve made quite the impression for Daryl to remember him all these years later. She tried to imagine sixteen-year-old Gray voluntarily shooting hoops with thirteen-year-old Daryl and failed.
“Can we play basketball again, Gray? It’s not too cold yet.”
“No, it’s not too cold. Sure, buddy. Let’s meet up tomorrow night at five thirty. We’ll have a little time before the sun sets.”
“Sure, Gray. Let’s meet up then.” He turned toward Shelby. “Gray is my friend. We’re meeting up.”
It was impossible not to be charmed by his excitement. “So I hear. I’m sure you’ll have fun.”
He scooted back to the counter. “I’m almost finished and then you’ll give me ice cream money.”
“That’s right.”
Liddy stuck out a hand to Gray. “Hi, I’m Liddy, Shelby’s sister-in-law.”
“Nice to meet you.” Gray offered a cautious smile and shook her hand.
His smile and demeanor when meeting someone new had always reminded Shelby of a wounded animal that anticipated rejection. It had broken her heart to see it then, and she didn’t love it now. He’d never deserved the poor treatment he’d gotten around here. But sticking up for him hadn’t exactly worked out for her in the long run.
“Here’s the key.” He set it on the counter.
“Okay.”
“Well...” Gray’s baby-blue eyes locked on Shelby.
She felt it down to her toes. A long second ticked by. Two. Heat prickled beneath her armpits while thoughts pinged around her brainlike pinballs. He had that stare that made you think he could see right into your mind.
