Texas Rainbow

by Caroline Clemmons

  “I’ll look forward to it. What about you, Nancy. Do you live in town?”

  “I live on Mulberry Street and I’ll be working for Ellie in her shop. It’s just adorable and there are so many pretty things.”

  Chip looked at Bart. “I have a feeling this new shop is going to cost me.”

  Ellie laughed at him. “I hope so. Maybe I’ll get back some of my insurance money.”

  Jake and Penny came up behind Bart.

  Jake laid his hands on Bart’s shoulders. “Wouldn’t you think a guy’s own brother would save him a place?”

  “Ha ha, you can’t fool me. Caleb told me you two are going to sit with Mike and Will and their wives and whichever of his snooty women Caleb brings.”

  Patsy’s eyes widened like saucers. Ellie winked at her.

  Jake tapped Bart’s shoulders. “If you’re not really, really nice to me I’m going to tell Caleb what you said. Ah, there he is now.”

  Caleb sauntered over with a knockout blond on his arm. He nodded to those at the table but didn’t make introductions. “Our table’s on the other side of the room. I guess we’ll see you folks later.”

  With Penny’s hand in his, Jake followed his cousin. Penny looked over her shoulder and waved as she walked away.

  Patsy said, “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised to see the bank president here tonight. I’m just very surprised I’m at the same table as one of his relatives.”

  Bart grinned. “I hope you’re properly impressed. I know people in high places.”

  Rick said, “You know plenty in low places too.”

  Everyone at the table laughed.

  Dinner was served as the orchestra played a medley of light classical numbers.

  Ellie looked at Rick. “You didn’t cater this?”

  He shook his head. “Don’t blame me for this meal. I’d fire my staff if they produced food like this.”

  Ellie cut her meat. “I admit it’s not up to Angus Castle standards, but it’s not bad.” She looked around the room. “The decorations are nice.”

  As soon as the plates were being cleared the band changed to dance numbers.

  Ellie nudged Bart. “Are you going to dazzle me on the dance floor, Sheriff?”

  He stood and offered his hand. “I’m going to try.” He swept her onto the floor.

  She noticed that Vince and Nancy joined the others dancing. “I’m so pleased to see Vince and Nancy together tonight.”

  “If he were any more nervous he’d pass out. He was really pleased Nancy agreed to come with him. Thanks for interceding on his behalf.”

  “It’s on her behalf too. She was married for seventeen years and is still a young woman. In a couple of years, Bobby will go off to college.”

  Bart pulled her closer. “Forget about them. Tonight’s about us.”

  Chapter Twenty Five

  Opening day for her shop was a success. At the end of the day, Ellie had sold gift items as quickly as she and Nancy could restock. They’d even sold a couple of vintage dresses for women whose husbands were in an antique automobile club.

  Apparently the couples dressed appropriately for the year of their cars for club tours. She vowed to get some early 1900 styles for those customers.

  At the end of the day, she was amazed at how much she’d taken in. She counted it again. “I’m knackered. I’ve arranged to drop this in the night deposit so there’s no money here overnight.”

  Nancy stretched. “Although I’m tired, my adrenaline hasn’t waned. This was an exciting day.”

  Bobby asked, “Did you show Ellie the photo?”

  Nancy stammered, “I-I’m not sure this is a good time.”

  Ellie looked from Bobby to Nancy. “What photo?”

  Nancy opened her purse and pulled out a photo. “When I saw your dress, I kept thinking it was like something I’d seen before. I checked the old album and spotted this. I don’t understand how, but the woman wearing your dress looks like you.”

  Quivering inside, Ellie struggled to appear casual. “Oh? May I see?” The photo was of the entire wedding party of Mattie and Frankie’s ceremony.

  Ellie fought for a story. “I can’t believe it. That dress has been handed down in my family. Of course, I inherited it from my mother, but I believe it goes back several generations.”

  Nancy nodded. “That would explain the resemblance.”

  “Our old photos were destroyed in a fire. Do you mind if I have a copy made of that one?”

  Nancy laughed and returned it to her purse. “I’ll have one made for you to thank you for this job.”

  “I’d really appreciate that, Nancy, and any others with her in them.”

  Bart appeared at the back. “Does anyone need an armed guard to go to the bank?”

  Ellie had to stop herself from rushing to hug him in front of Nancy and Bobby. “You won’t believe how much we took in, Bart. I know it’s not all profit but the amount staggers me.”

  “I heard reports all day. Plus every time I came by, the place was crowded. I hope you’re not going to be disappointed that all your days aren’t like this one.”

  Ellie raised her eyebrows at Nancy. “Sheriff, we don’t have the stamina for every day to be like this. But, we’re also selling online. I don’t know what people are using the clothing for at this time of year but I don’t care. Thank goodness, Penny pitched in to help customers when she came by.”

  Bobby looked awfully pleased with himself. “We even had an order from Australia for my great-great-grandmother’s dress.” He looked as if he had secured the order himself.

  Bart patted Bobby’s shoulder. “Good thing you’re handling the mailings so your mom and Ellie can take care of customers in the shop.”

  Half talking to herself, Ellie said, “We need to find some nineteenth-century clothing.”

  Bart leaned on the counter. “Do you have ads out? Also, you might check with Mrs. Dennis. She’s interested in history and would know who had something available.”

  Ellie met his gaze. His beautiful blue eyes fascinated her. “She came by and introduced herself. We were so busy I couldn’t really talk to her.”

  Nancy carried her purse. “If you don’t need us any longer, Bobby and I will head home.”

  “I’ll see you in the morning. Thanks again for your help.”

  As soon as they were alone, Bart put his hands at her waist. “What about me? Do I get thanks?”

  Ellie threw her arms around his neck. “I’m grateful to you most of all. By the way, I learned what Margaret pays for her rent, so I know what a bargain you’re giving me.”

  Bart pulled her against his hard chest and kissed her hair. “I didn’t want you to know about that. I hope you didn’t tell Margaret.”

  Under her ear, his strong heartbeat reassured her. She nestled against him. “Of course not. I must have appeared surprised because she asked me if that was what I paid. I stammered that I also have the apartment upstairs, which isn’t a lie. But, the intent is because I sounded like I pay more than she does.”

  “Enough about business.” Bart molded his mouth to hers and she was lost to the world. For heaven’s sake, she was twenty-two years old and not sixteen. The desire surging through her was that of a woman who needed this man and not a silly schoolgirl crush.

  He broke the kiss and his breath was ragged. “I thought we’d go to dinner to celebrate your successful grand opening.”

  “Sounds lovely. But first I have to tell you something.” She explained about the photo and her comments to Nancy.

  “You handled that well. I’ll be interested to see the photo and any others that show up. Now let’s go eat.”

  She looked down at her navy and white dress. “Shouldn’t I change clothes?”

  “Naw, you’re a walking advertisement. Grab your keys and let’s go.”

  “And the night deposit. Caleb showed me how to do that but I’m glad you’ll be with me.”

  Ellie and Bart strolled toward the bank. The street was well lig
hted, but she still would’ve been nervous on her own. Her shop was only a block from the bank but she had to walk past an alleyway. In the winter, dark would have fallen by the time she would make a deposit.

  As if he had read her thoughts, Bart said, “When the time changes and it gets dark earlier, you should make your deposit in the late afternoon. People will see that you’re not keeping money overnight but you won’t have to walk to the bank in the dark.”

  People they met smiled and nodded or called, “Good evening.” So far the only people she’d encountered that she didn’t like were those three hoodlums who had ruined her store. They were still in jail, thank goodness.

  She squeezed Bart’s arm where her hand rested. “Having you walk me to the bank is especially nice but I know you can’t always do that.”

  He chuckled. “People are gonna expect me to actually work part of the time. I’ve heard a few sly comments already.”

  Alarm clawed at her. “About the time you spend with me?”

  “That and the time I spent supervising your shop’s repair. I figure it all works out in the end. Many times in the past I’ve worked three days straight with no sleep. A little lollygagging isn’t that big a deal balanced against the other times.”

  “I agree but I know yours is an elected position and you want to continue in the job.”

  They reached the bank and she followed Caleb’s instructions. Or she thought she did. Bart shook his head and corrected her.

  “Thanks. I try to forget your job is dangerous. I pretend your deputies do the scary stuff and you only do desk work. I know that’s not true but it makes me feel better.”

  He looked down at her and took her hand. “That would be a boring job. I became a sheriff to make a difference in the community. I’m not bragging when I say I have. When I took office, we had a lot of criminal activity in the county. Most of that has been wiped out.”

  “Did you have to fire deputies when you took office?”

  “I fired three of them and received a lot of flak for a while. Vince is one of the new men I hired.”

  “I’m so glad he and Nancy are seeing one another now. She’s happier and so is Bobby. He worries about her a lot.”

  “He’s a good kid. Most of the local youth are. I started a program against bullying in the schools. Fortunately, the school district is enforcing my plan. You know, I’m proud of the majority of kids in Harmon County.”

  “Except for those three rotten teens you have locked in jail. I used to think anyone could be redeemed but now I’ve changed my mind. I believe those kids, especially Joe Cannon, are going to escalate their activities into more serious crimes. Do you agree, Sheriff?”

  “I’m afraid you’re right. Their trial is next week. I don’t have much hope of getting a serious conviction.”

  “That part of your job must be frustrating. You arrest criminals and the judge releases them.”

  “I sometimes wonder why we try. Still, we keep doing our best. Harmon County is one of the safest places in the state. I’m proud of that statistic.”

  What was she thinking, walking along holding his hand in public? She loved the sensation of her hand in his stronger one and wasn’t about to call his attention to the fact they received knowing smiles from passersby.

  Instead, she caught herself babbling. “I’ve heard wonderful things about you. Everyone admires you and respects you. I think that extends to your deputies, although I personally don’t like that George Arnold.”

  He chuckled. “Funny you should mention him. Would knowing that George is Judge Kirby’s nephew help you understand?”

  “Oh no, you had to hire that weasel because of his uncle? I wondered why you put up with him but now I understand.”

  “A few minutes ago you remembered mine is an elected office. I can’t stir up too many hornet’s nests if I want to remain Sheriff. On the other hand, I don’t compromise my integrity.”

  “Does he follow orders?”

  “If I found George wasn’t doing his job I’d fire him on the spot. So far he carries out his assignments, grudgingly sometimes, but he gets them done.”

  ***

  Ellie made it a point to attend court when the three troublemakers were tried for vandalizing her shop. She wished she could slap the smirks off their faces. Perhaps she’d made a mistake by attending today. Penny and Sally were with her to offer support.

  As Bart had predicted, the teens were released with time served and required to perform thirty hours of community service. She was so frustrated she had trouble not telling the judge what she thought of his ruling. How could he fail to see what a joke his treatment was to these boys?

  Immediately, Ellie texted Nancy to let her know the trial’s result. Thank goodness, they’d both had burglar alarms installed. Not that the systems would prevent more vandalism.

  Tossing a brick through a window, slashing tires, or keying a car was too easy. Ellie imagined those three toughs knew dozens of ways to harm others and/or annoy them that would never occur to her. She prayed they especially would leave Bobby alone.

  Ellie hugged Sally and Penny. “Thanks for coming to sit with me. Having you there meant a lot.”

  Penny said, “We’ll be checking on you. This sounds trite, but don’t be too upset. Bart will arrest them again and next time they won’t get off so easy.”

  “I know but I’m so disappointed. In the meantime, I could use a rainbow or two.”

  Ellie strode back to her shop. When she went inside, Nancy appeared to have been crying.

  Nancy wiped her eyes. “I’m sorry, but I was so frustrated I couldn’t help myself. I sent Bobby upstairs to lie down on your couch. I hope that’s all right. He was petrified.”

  “I feel the same way. How long before those three escalate their crimes?”

  Her friend shook her head. “I predict it won’t be long. They’ll be celebrating being set free.”

  Ellie took Nancy’s hands in hers. “Why don’t you and Bobby stay here tonight? He can sleep on the couch and you and I can share the bed. The presence of you two here will make me feel better and I won’t worry about you tonight.”

  “It won’t help in the long run, but that would help me tonight. I’m so frustrated that I’m exhausted.”

  “That’s how I feel. I wish I could have told off that judge. The triumphant smirks on those troublemakers’ faces set my nerves on edge. I can only imagine how the sheriff and his deputies feel.”

  “Vince called me to warn me. He sounded really upset.” She took out her phone. “I’ll let him know I’m staying here.”

  “Maybe if he and Bart are off, we could invite them here for supper. I could order a pizza or Chinese food.”

  Nancy’s face broke into a smile. “That would make me feel a lot better.”

  Ellie pulled out her phone. “I’ll see if Bart is available.” She called him and talked for a while. “He and Vince will bring food. Let’s go make the iced tea.”

  Upstairs, Ellie was excited to have guests in her apartment. “Bobby, we’re having a party.”

  He sat up and she saw his worried expression. “Who’s coming?”

  She filled her teakettle with water and set it on the stove she loved. “Bart and Vince. Is there someone you’d like to invite?”

  He stared at her. “Are you kidding? You only have four chairs at your table.”

  She was happy she had a large pitcher and tea bags. “Hey, don’t badmouth my lovely abode. I figured you and your friend could sit on the couch and use the coffee table for your food.”

  Nancy spread a cloth on the table. “You could ask David or maybe Lily.” She set plates, napkins, and cutlery at each place.

  Bobby’s eyes widened with alarm. “Mo-o-o-m-m, I can’t ask a girl. I’ll text David.” In a minute, he shouted. “He’s coming right over.”

  Nancy added two place settings to the coffee table.

  When the doorbell rang, Bobby ran down to answer it. He returned with a teen about his height who
had red hair, freckles, and large brown eyes. “This is David Parr.” The bell rang again and Bobby raced back down to the door.

  Bart appeared first, then Vince, followed by Bobby.

  The sheriff set a large bag on the counter. “We brought barbecue and trimmings. I almost stopped on the way here but decided to wait and share.”

  Vince smiled at Nancy. “Two police cars in the parking lot might discourage vandalism for a while.” He nodded to David. “Tell your parents I’ll bring you home.”

  When they’d all served their plates, Bobby asked, “Can David and I go to the mail room to eat and talk? I promise we won’t make a mess.”

  Ellie smiled at the young man she’d come to admire. “If your mom doesn’t mind, I imagine you’ll enjoy the evening more. It’s your office, after all.”

  The boys added a bit more food to their plates before they grabbed their glasses and went downstairs.

  Nancy smiled at Ellie. “Thanks. I’m so glad he and David are hanging out again.”

  Vince nodded. “Yeah, they’re both good kids. I know David’s family and they’re nice people, too.”

  Bart picked up a French fry. “Vince and I sandwiched your cars between ours. Won’t work for long but might send a message tonight.”

  Ellie laid her hand on Bart’s. “Nancy and I are so glad you and Vince are here. You’re the first guests I’ve had for a meal.”

  She smiled at Nancy. “Except for Nancy and Bobby but that was during work. This is more like a party.”

  Nancy laughed. “I was about to act offended but you saved yourself.”

  Vince smiled at Ellie. “This feels like a party. Thanks for thinking of inviting me.”

  “I hope to have a lot of parties here.” She looked at her friends and gestured around them. “Small, intimate parties due to the limited space.”

  Bart raised his tea glass. “To more parties with beautiful ladies.”

  Vince said, “Here, here.”

  Ellie smiled at Nancy. “Aren’t we lucky?”

  Chapter Twenty Six

  When Nancy and Ellie went down the next morning, they found eggs had been thrown at the shop’s front window.