“Well, that’s your first mistake. You’re trying to make decisions for her as to what she can or can’t handle. Slowdown. You need to start with getting to know each other. Your strengths and weaknesses, and how they mesh. Take her out, spend time with her. Watch TV, go to the store, maybe a movie. Take her to dinner. Just spend time together. And talk, honestly. Be who and what you are and let her get to know you.
“She’s quiet, but stronger than most people give her credit for.” He pauses, studying me again. Refusing to be cowed by his expression I remain silent. With a sharp nod, he continues, “Maura is going to ask her to volunteer a couple shifts at the veterans center this week. Go with her. Make sure she’s safe. You have the security system up at the house and studio. I can swing by if you need me to.
“You’re staying with her until we figure this out, right?”
“No way I’m leaving her alone until we know what’s really happening.”
CHAPTER 8
Grace
“Grace, Jaxon will help with the shop. You need to swallow your pride and let him make you a deal. When you’re back in charge and the shop starts making the money it should you can make it back up to him,” Maura lectures.
She pours two glasses of wine, hands me one, then takes my hand and leads me to the couch. “Now tell me about Rourke. Sorry, Caleb. These military guys always go by last names, and it drives me a little crazy trying to keep track. He is soooo hot. I’ll bet he’s good in bed. Don’t you think?”
I choke on my swallow of wine.
She smiles. “I’ll take that as a yes. He’s a good man. You could do worse.”
“Maura!”
“You know I’m going to speak my mind, Grace. It’s been long enough. You’re too young to let yourself wither away. You’re beautiful, kind, talented, and you have a life to live.
“All I’m saying is that you deserve some fun and attention. The way he looks at you, I’m sure he’s interested. But he may bea little hesitant because of your past. You may have to make the first move.”
“I—I couldn’t. I—I wouldn’t know how.”
“You probably wouldn’t have to do much.” She takes a sip of her wine then taps the glass against her lips. “Okay, these are some easy ones. A palm on his forearm when you’re walking. If you’re in front of him, a quick turn and a palm on his chest. My personal favorite would be at the door, when he goes to unlock it. Turn into his space and just ask him to kiss you.”
Heat burns my cheeks.
She chuckles. “Okay, little too much too fast. Just keep that one in the back of your mind. I’m telling you. He’s interested.”
“I... I don’t want to be just any port in a storm, and I don’t want to treat him that way either. I don’t know if I can do casual.”
Maura’s face softens. “You don’t have to tell me. But be honest with yourself without guilt. Guy would want you to find happiness. All I’m saying is if you have feelings or are attracted to Caleb, you deserve to be happy, and to go for it. Get back in the dating game at least. Think about it. You have a whole life ahead of you. You deserve joy and love.”
I nod. “I will. I promise.”
“Okay, now do you have any time you could give to the veterans’ center this week? We’ve been short on volunteers the last couple weeks. That boy, Joe, has been getting quiet again. His family hasn’t been back. Jax has a guest speaker coming to talk and visit soon, but.... I’m a little concerned about Joe. He responded so well to you. He said you remind him of his sister who passed away.”
“I’ll go this week. Tomorrow if I can. I have some paints and canvases in the studio that I wanted to give him. He admitted he likes art and used to do some sketching but never tried painting.Some of the other patients liked the idea of working with clay. I ordered some special air dry clay for them.”
“Thank you.”
Jaxon and Caleb walk in a few minutes later with a basket of eggs. After Maura divvies them up we say our goodbyes. The ride home is quiet but not uncomfortable.
Caleb goes inside with me and after checking all the rooms, he comes back to the kitchen. “I want to do some recon outside just to make sure. Lock up behind me and don’t open the door for anyone. I still have the key you gave me. I’ll have my cell on me, call if you hear or see anything. If I don’t respond immediately, call Jaxon.
“I’m serious. Do not open the door for anyone but me or Jaxon. If I’m not back in an hour, notify Jaxon.”
“That long? Do you think there’s a danger?”
“No. I’m sure it’s fine, but I won’t take chances with you.”
“I’ll be okay. You be careful.”
Locking the door behind him, I lean my forehead against the cool wood and replay Maura’s parting shot.
