How long was this time-and-space thing supposed to last? Until his feelings were gone? He gave a wry laugh. At this rate that might be never.
It was your bright idea, genius.
Yeah, well, it wasn’t working so well—at least not for him. There was an empty, Jenna-shaped hole in his heart that seemed like it would never be filled. How was he supposed to live like this?
The phone buzzed, claiming his attention. Nerves clamoring, he snapped it up.
“She’s history,” the chief announced with no preamble. “Geena’s giving Marissa her walking papers as we speak.”
Tyson blew out a deep breath. “That’s great news. I’m so relieved to hear it.”
“Geena also called Marissa’s former employer over in Wattsville and discovered they had trouble with her there too. Her previous boss suspects Marissa is a narcissist. Said she wouldn’t be surprised if Marissa put those bruises there herself.”
“Wow.”
“Geena’s kicking herself for not checking her references, but she was desperate to fill that spot. I’m sorry this happened, son. But boy, it sure is good when the truth prevails, isn’t it?”
“You can say that again.”
Marissa’s downfall was the main topic the next Wednesday at Ty’s parents’ house. Ty loved recounting Luke’s story about the paramedic storming out of the fire station. How fortuitous that he’d been present for the moment. It gave Ty plenty of satisfaction to see justice carried out.
His parents had invited Ty and his brothers for supper—Alex had picked up Cosa’s pizza on the way, and Ty was currently regretting that sixth slice. He wiped the grease from his fingers and leaned back in his chair, holding back a moan of misery.
Mom, sitting between Ty and Seth, removed the last slice from the box and set it on Seth’s plate.
“Thanks, Mom. Don’t mind if I do.” Seth had a bottomless stomach.
“Save some room,” Mom said. “Dee brought over brownies this afternoon.”
“I’m going to need a little break,” Alex said even as he finished chewing a bite. “So, Mom, we’re only a week from the pony auction. Have you guys decided if you’re bidding on the foal?”
“Oh boy,” Dad said. “Here we go.”
Seth leaned in. “I got a glimpse of Patches’ sibling last week. He’s a pretty cute little guy. He might not go for a lot either since he’s a bay.”
Mom swung her head Ty’s way. “And what do you think, Tyson?”
“Um, yeah, Seth’s right. That’s the way it usually goes.” The pintos typically brought a higher bid since they more closely resembled the fabled Misty of Chincoteague.
Mom dropped her napkin on her plate. “Well, I just can’t seem to decide.”
“What do you think, Dad?” Alex asked.
Dad’s gaze sharpened on their mother. “I think your mother has a mind of her own.”
Ty traded a grin with Seth over their mom’s head. Looked like this bet might go their way after all. And good thing, with five hundred dollars on the line. He could almost see that big-screen TV hanging on his wall.
Mom patted Ty’s leg. “Well, all those articles were very helpful, honey. And Seth, those website links you sent me... I just couldn’t have asked for more timely information.”
“Glad we could help.” Seth shot Alex a smug look. “So you’re leaning toward buying one?”
“Oh, I’m leaning toward buying one all right.” Something was off about Mom’s tone.
Ty frowned. He glanced her way just as her benign expression flipped to a scowl. “What is wrong with the three of you? Do you think I’m stupid? I’m onto your little bet. You’re about as subtle as a flashing neon sign.”
Ty’s face warmed as he met Alex’s “uh-oh” expression across the table.
“She’s been onto you since the beginning, guys,” Dad said.
