If she knew who was behind these things, maybe she could do something about it. Confront the problem. Fix it. Apologize. Something!
But this? These targeted attacks made it feel as if someone was working in the shadows, picking her apart piece by piece.
And she didn’t know what they planned to do next.
She glanced at the plywood covering the window. Then at the empty waiting area. They were both reminders of what was happening.
She sighed and glanced at her watch.
It was just past noon, and she was supposed to meet Kendra in twenty-five minutes.
Hadley hesitated, everything in her wanting to cancel. She had a business to run—or at least, totryto run. Walking away right now felt wrong.
But staying wouldn’t fix anything either. Not yet.
She straightened and pushed away from the wall. “I know it seems like poor timing, but I’m supposed to meet someone for lunch. I can figure this out when I get back.”
Susie nodded, though concern still lingered in her expression. “Maybe getting away will be good for you.”
“Maybe,” Hadley said. “While I’m gone, can you try to call anyone else who had an appointment today? If you can remember who they are.”
“I’ll do my best. I might not get everyone, but I’ll try.”
“Thank you.” Hadley grabbed her bag. “I won’t be long. When I get back, I’ll help however I can.”
She headed for the door, pausing long enough to take one more look at the empty waiting area.
This wasn’t the start to her new life here that she’d envisioned. Not even close.
CHAPTER 17
Hadley stepped into Ember& Oak and paused inside the doorway.
The warmth hit her first, followed by the low hum of conversations and the clink of dishes. The place was busy but inviting with its wood accents and soft lighting.
She spotted Kendra at a small table near the window. Her posture was relaxed and her expression bright as she lifted a hand in greeting. She still wore the jeans and light blue sweatshirt she’d been wearing at the kennel.
“Hey!” Kendra called. “Over here.”
Hadley smiled and made her way across the room.
This will be good, she told herself. A break. A distraction. Something normal.
She’d told herself she wanted to make new friends here. That she should say yes to opportunities. She couldn’t only hang out with her cousins.
This was her chance to do that.
“Thanks for grabbing a table,” Hadley said as she slid into the seat across from her.
“Of course.” Kendra grinned, appearing genuinely pleased to see her. “I wasn’t sure how crowded it would get.”
Hadley set her purse down beside her chair. “I love this place. I’ve only eaten here a couple of times, but it was definitely tasty.”
“Isn’t it great? Have you tried their French dip sandwich yet? It’s amazing. And the fries? Homemade with a spicy dipping sauce to die for.”
She smiled. “That good, huh?”
“You should get it. Trust me.”
