But no, that was his past talking. He wasn’t a teenager anymore, at everyone else’s mercy. He was worthy of a good life. Of success. Of love. “Everythingisperfect. Let’s just enjoy it.”
The server arrived at their table, presenting a circular tray laden with sizzling steaks and expertly garnished vegetables.
The aromas made Gray’s mouth water. He gave Shelby’s hand a final squeeze. Yes, that was exactly what they would do. Just enjoy each other.
That thought flew from his mind a few hours later after he dropped off Shelby. He pulled into his driveway and his headlights swept the front of his house. Frowning, he exited his SUV and approached the porch. He hadn’t left a light on, so he unlocked the door, stuck his hand inside, and swept it over the switch. The porch illuminated—and so did the large black words spray-painted on the white siding.
Go home, loser!
Chapter 39
The Christmas Shop and Stroll had finally arrived. But not so much at the bookshop. Shelby finished shelving Liane Moriarty’s recent release and glanced around the quiet store. Zuri restocked the shirts on the apparel rack and Janet had slipped off to the restroom.
No hurry since there were only two customers in the store. Shelby went downstairs and propped open the front door, hoping the warmth and smell of books would draw customers inside.
She frowned as she recalled the act of vandalism perpetrated on Gray’s house two nights ago. One of the Remingtons, she assumed. Probably Mason’s doing since, naturally, he’d been the first cop on the scene. It was obvious he felt above the law. He was quick to suggest it was likely a teenage prank, and the childish act certainly reinforced that theory. But Mason could’ve committed the crime with the intention of throwing suspicion elsewhere. It seemed he’d be a thorn in the side until Gray left town.
Gray went through the motions of filing a report, but neither of them held out any hope the police would actually do anything about it. Yesterday they’d talked about the situation as the two of them spent hours scrubbing off the paint.
“We should go to the station and tell the chief what’s been going on.” Shelby was infuriated that the harassment he’d experienced as a teenagerwas recurring. “You’re being bullied again and we’re not kids anymore. We have to do something.”
“If there was anything I learned about being bullied, it’s that telling only makes things worse. I have to leave at the end of the month, and I don’t want the blowback coming on you after I’m gone.”
“I can take care of myself. Gray, we’re in this together. And I know you’re leaving soon, but you should be able to visit me here without being harassed.”
He’d looked at her for a long moment, scrub brush still. “All right. But let’s get through the Christmas Stroll first. I’ll go to the police station Monday morning.”
A wave of relief washed over her. “I’ll go with you.”
Shelby’s thoughts scurried from her mind as Janet returned from the restroom. Her gray hair was caught up in a youthful ponytail, and her red readers swung from a chain around her neck. “This is strange. We’re usually so busy during the Stroll.”
“I was thinking the same thing.” It was after eleven and they’d only had a dozen or so customers. Fridays, especially in December, were usually busy. And the Shop and Stroll was the second busiest holiday weekend.
“Maybe everyone did their book buying on Black Friday.”
“But the sidewalks are teeming with shoppers.” A feeling of dread swept through her. “I might as well send someone home if we’re going to be this slow.”
“Zuri has finals coming up. She’d probably be grateful for the extra study time.” She winked at Shelby. “Plus I haven’t had a chance to get the scoop on your date the other night.”
Shelby appreciated her efforts to lighten the mood. “Now, Janet, I’m not one to kiss and tell.”
She snorted. “Since when? Throw an old girl a bone. Who can I live vicariously through if not you?”
“Isn’t that what romance novels are for?”
“Well, sure, but seeing it play out in real life is even better.” Her gaze darted toward the stairs. “He’s such a hunk.”
Shelby’s lips twitched. “Hey, eyes off my—” Boyfriend? Was Gray officially her boyfriend?
“Go ahead and say it, honey. Anyone can see he’s head over heels for you.” She sighed dramatically. “I remember when Charlie used to gaze at me that way.”
“He adores you. You guys are great together.”
“We are. But there’s old-shoe comfortable love and brand-new sizzling love.” She waggled her eyebrows.
Shelby chuckled. “On that note...” She headed toward the front of the store to let Zuri know she could head home.
“You’re just gonna leave me hanging?” Janet called. “I thought we were friends.”
