Too much information. Keep it simple and vague.
That was a question on the ‘no-no list. Afraid to lie for a second time, I decided on a diversion instead.
“Oakland Ridge is an amazing place, so I can’t fault you for landing here.”
The song ended, and I expected the sheriff to let me go, but he gave me a spin before pulling me in closely. My whole body shivers from the proximity, and his eyes sparkle with amusement. He doesn’t get a chance to question me again because Parker walks up behind him, cutting him off before he can speak.
“Sheriff, thank you for keeping my girl company. If you don’t mind, I’ll be interrupting this dance. I can’t have you stealing my lady.”
Parker was full of charm and charisma, flashing a what should damn well be illegal smile as he took my hand from the sheriff and pulled me into his side. I try not to release an audible sigh at the move. Oddly enough, I felt safer here by his side than I’ve felt in the last few years.
“I was just borrowing her! I doubt she would want an old fella like me anyhow,” he said, clapping Parker on the shoulder before walking away.
“I am sorry for leaving you so long, Ev.” Parker rushed out.
Tension eased from my body as Parker pulled us into a dance, the hand at my back grounding me. I struggled with the idea of trusting him so easily. I was supposed to be smarter. Have better discernment. But my body took no issue. I couldn’thelp but lean closer into him as he guided our bodies across the dance floor.
“It’s okay, you’re here now. I’m sure I would’ve found a way to politely exit that dance.”
Parker lets out a dry laugh. “Does he give you the creeps, too? Strauss seems to be everywhere my father is. I understand why he associates with him. All my father cares about is wealth and status. I can imagine he probably made healthy donation to the Sheriff's department to garner this type of support. Still, I can’t help but keep my guard up around him.”
“He’s definitely not an innocent old man, I'll tell you that. His eyes wandered quite a bit.”
Parker’s hand tightened on my waist. I looked up at him, confused by the sudden tension in his hold. His lip lifted in a snarl as he shook his head.
“Parker?”
“Let’s forget about him and try to enjoy ourselves for now. I think I’ve shaken enough hands to please my father for the night.”
Parker brought our bodies closer as the band began to play a rendition ofSomeone Like Youby Adele. I leaned my head on his chest as we danced. His hand was warm on my lower back, and his breathing was steady as we swayed to the melody.
We dance to a few more songs before dinner is announced. Parker leads us towards a table with our names on the place card. As we’re taking our seats, another couple sits down.
“I heard you were back in town, but didn’t dare believe it,” the woman said as she took the seat next to me.
“Not back, just visiting. How have you been, Denise?” Parker responded.
My attention swung to the alluring tawny woman across from me.
Denise is stunning, wearing a strapless magenta mermaid-style gown. Her locs were styled intricately atop her head in a crown. Her date was an Asian man with long black hair wearing a tuxedo and a matching magenta handkerchief.
“Oh, we are doing just wonderful, aren't we, Jackson?” Denise says cheerily, patting Jackson’s shoulder, “I’m sure you’ve heard. It’s all people are talking about these days. Anyways, Jackson and I will be having our wedding in five weeks. We hope you can make it.”
Jackson nodded while typing on his phone.
“That’s great, I’m really happy for you. We’re not sure how long we’ll be in town. Willow and I are just visiting.” Parker looked at me pointedly.
Denise looks me in the eyes, blinking twice before returning her focus to Parker.
“How rude of me!” She turns to face me. “I’m Denise Lockhart, Parker, and I go way back. It’s so nice he brought a little friend back home. Oakland Ridge doesn’t get too many outsiders.”
Little friend? She wasn’t for real. I kissed my teeth out of habit, muttering, “Bright and facety,” under my breath.
Parker lifted an arm around my shoulders, letting the rough pad of his thumb caress my skin. It sent unexpected chills down my spine, almost distracting me from responding. “Willow Norris. Nice to meet you.”
She barely registered my greeting as her eyes zoomed in on his arm around me. “Parker, we should meet up for coffee while you’re in town. Catch up a bit. I’m not sure I have the right number for you,” Denise said as she took her phone from the beaded clutch in her lap.
I had to hand it to the woman. She had chutzpah. Denise managed to make jabs at me while also appearing available right in front of her fiancé. Jackson seemed completely removed fromthe conversation, his phone now raised to his ear as he spoke in a low voice.
