by Lacey Silks
“I’m the lucky one to have been welcomed to Ogden by everyone. It looks like your computer is frozen.” I nodded toward the machine, which reminded me of a box of shoes and something that belonged in a museum. “Mind if I have a look?”
“Be my guest. We’ve been meaning to replace it, but you know, funds are pretty low, and there’s not much crime in Ogden, so the town always finds something more important to spend its money on.”
I clicked a few keys, unlocking the operating system and shutting down the unresponsive programs.
“Well, what do you know?” He lifted his hands to his hips, his mouth open in awe as if I had just performed a miracle.
“You really should get a new computer. It would connect to the central network and keep you updated on most wanted and fugitives.”
“Have you ever thought about being a police officer?” he asked, as if he knew my calling was in the field. Given most women in Ogden bore children and performed tasks expected of females from the Stone Age, I found Sheriff Lowes more open-minded than I’d given him credit for and took his comment as a true compliment.
“My sister-in-law is one. I guess she rubbed off on me a bit.” I shrugged.
“Dealing with neighborly disputes and complaints takes up most of my time here. Some don’t like barking dogs, while others argue that our twenty-five mile-per-hour speed limit downtown is still too high and keep applying to the city to reduce it. Keeping track of it all is too much paperwork.” He pointed to a desk with a spilling stack of papers.
“You need help,” I said, taking a note of the tiredness in his eyes and sagging cheeks.
“I could have this town running smoothly, but when I asked for help, no one was willing to do it. They all have farms around here to take care of and say there’s no crime. But once in a while, one does show up, and unfortunately there are no resources here to do the job I’m supposed to.”
“You mean like these men?” I pointed to the cork board where half dozen photographs had been pinned, noting the familiar face of John Huntz.
“We don’t get many fugitives here, Emma. But this guy” – Sheriff Lowes shook his head, pressing his chubby finger against Huntz’s forehead with vengeance like he wanted to put a bullet right through it – “he was a piece of work. He kidnapped Eric and Annabelle Waters when they were young, and had harassed the family for many years before that. That man was capable of murder; you can tell by just looking at his face. Hasn’t been seen since the day Eric was found wandering down the road, with Annabelle a few miles behind him. Eric must have told you the story.”
“He has. What about this one?” I pointed to another guy.
“Disappeared with his wife and was never heard from again. Her body was found floating in a creek one hundred miles south. His never was. He was Huntz’s neighbor.”
“You think they’re linked,” I stated.
He laughed again. “I never scratch anything off the table until I’m sure. If you ever need a job Emma, you just let me know. You’re a smart woman. I could use some help around here. With your wits, we could resolve half the city’s disputes in no time. And maybe solve a case or two.”
I got butterflies of excitement in my belly at the offer.
“John Huntz owned properties, right? One burned down, and Missy lives in the other one. Do you know why?” I asked.
Sheriff Lowes regarded me knowingly, and I knew he was beginning to wonder why I had so many questions about Huntz. But I also knew I hadn’t asked enough to make him suspicious just yet – he’d take it as curiosity because I was staying with Eric. “Well, it looks like you know more than many here, Emma. Missy was an orphan. Since only the town’s register and priest knew about the second property, which had been left unoccupied for years, the church asked whether Missy could live there in exchange for all the work she had done for the community. They gave the town a remarkable donation for a new fire truck in return. Since no one could object to the matter, Missy moved in.”
“Interesting…”
“Emma, not that anyone will ask you about it, but you should keep this between us. I have a feeling many would tear the place down if they knew, and Missy needs a home to live in. Do you know what I’m trying to say, Emma? Can I trust you with this?”
I pulled my fingers across my lips, saying, “Sealed. I promise. If you ever do get that new computer, I can show you how to enter the data and clear up the work.” I caught the binder that was about to slide off the pile of papers on his desk.
“I will definitely let you know, Emma.”
“Have a great day!”
“You too.” He removed his hat, bowing his head.
After two hours of chatting and getting an extensive update of the town’s neglected work, I stepped outside into the smoldering heat. Dust swirled in the air as a dark-haired girl on a bicycle pulled up to the store Missy worked at. She flipped the kickstand to support the bike and headed my way. My gut twisted. Her snobby demeanor and undeniable look of satisfaction on her face confirmed we wouldn’t be friends. Her boobs nearly spilled out of her shirt with pride.
“Hi, Emma. I’m Claire. Eric’s girl.”
Why did I feel like my fingers suddenly grew claws instead of nails?
“Hi, it’s good to know there’s more than one Eric in town.”
“Oh, no, there’s only Eric Waters. The one who made me a woman.” She sighed.
What the fuck?!
For a moment I doubted that she belonged in this polite town. Claire could have easily passed for a bitch from the biggest city in the world. How she had gotten her skanky hands on someone like Eric in the first place was beyond me.
“You know, a connection like the one we have never dies. Once they take you to their barn, it’s a sealed deal for the rest of your life.”
Eric told me he’d never taken a woman in his barn. Had he lied? Or was she bluffing? I crossed my arms over my chest.
“Well, I personally find his bed much more comfortable. Come to think of it, the floor in his family room and the shower weren’t too bad either,” I countered.
She waved her hand as if dismissing me.
“He’s just letting off his anger for now. And once he does, he’ll come back to me. After all, he told me you’ll be leaving soon, and he’ll need to return to his regular life.”
Another moment of this conversation and I swear I would make use of the new weapon that had grown at the end of my fingertips. I’d never met anyone who aggravated me so much. When had she gotten a chance to talk to him?
“Have a great time while you’re visiting, Emma. And don’t let a bull kick you on the way out of town.”
I stood there with my mouth open, for the first time in my life unable to think of something witty to say. Claire was definitely someone I had to watch out for, and without a doubt, this wasn’t the last time I’d see her.
My heart leapt at the smell of freshly baked bread that drew my attention to Mrs. Gladden’s bakery. I took a brave step toward the store. I had avoided it since the first day I arrived in Ogden. It had been two years since I’d eaten a pastry resembling something David would have made. Catching my gaze, Mrs. Gladden waved me to come inside.
“Good morning,” I said nervously, feeling the smell of fresh bread penetrate my lungs.
Standing at the bakery’s threshold, I felt like I’d just traveled back in time, when I’d ran to David’s dad’s bakery to meet him in the morning.
“Hello, Emma. It’s so good to see you again. How are you adjusting, my dear? I hope Claire out there didn’t give you too much trouble.” She leaned over the counter, waving me inside once again. But I couldn’t convince my feet to move. “That girl likes to stir the pot too much. I’m so happy Eric finally found someone kinder, like you. Don’t let her tell you otherwise.”
I guessed having seen me speak with Claire, she mistook the cause of my nerves. The last time I’d chatted with Mrs. Gladden, we stood outside the bakery, and given Eric was with me, I’d had a g
ood excuse not to enter. Could I do so now? Could I really put my past behind me and step into the future?
“It’s all right. Are those red velvet cupcakes?” I pointed to the massive red mounds with cream cheese frosting on top, sprinkled with crimson flakes.
“Oh, Emma. Come in, please. You must try them. I baked them this morning, and I promise you won’t find a better taste in the world.”
With David gone, I was sure she was correct. I took a step forward. The warmth of baked goods wrapped around me, and before I knew it, there was a cupcake sitting on a plate in front of me and Mrs. Gladden holding a forkful ready for a taste.
“Thank you.” I hoped my voice was louder than a whisper. Glad to be sitting down at one of the tables, I stared at the dessert in front of me.
“Don’t you like cupcakes, dear?” she asked, concern drawing onto her face.
“I do, it’s just that… they bring memories. Sad memories.”
She pulled up a chair beside me and took my hand into hers, “Tell me. It will help.”
I wasn’t sure how, but spilling my heart out to Mrs. Gladden felt liberating. For the first time in two years, I’d felt like I was finally letting David go. She wiped a tear from her eye as my story came to an end.
“You’ve lived through much more in your life than many of us old folks, Emma. I’m sorry for being so pushy.” She pulled the plate away from me.
“No, please. I think it’s time I try something new.” I took the fork from her hand to taste the cupcake. The smooth cream frosting melted on my tongue. It wasn’t too sweet, blending perfectly with the red sponge. Mrs. Gladden waited without moving for my approval.
“It’s delicious. One of the best I’ve tasted in my life.” And I wasn’t saying that just to be polite. I meant it.
“Oh, Emma, thank you. I hope you find the happiness you’re looking for, my dear. I hope you find someone to fill that gaping hole in your heart, and I have a feeling you already have.”
Had I? Could I even consider Eric to fill in what I’d had with David? I didn’t think I wanted anyone to fill in David’s spot, but maybe Eric could be the one to seal that hole and heal me the way I hoped I could heal him.
I bought fresh bread and a few pastries, including two of the largest cupcakes I’d ever seen. On my way to Town Hall, I saw Claire on her bike again, leaning into another girl’s ear while keeping her devil eyes focused on me. I knew I’d be running into her again. I just didn’t know when, or where.
Chapter 21
Eric
It was half an hour after Emma left that I heard the crunching of a bicycle’s wheels over the graveled part of my driveway. I wiped my hands on my soiled jeans and took a step out of the barn. Claire was riding her bike toward me, her hair blowing to the wind and breasts nearly falling out of her blouse. At one time in my life, the sight of her would give me a hard on, but not anymore. Now the minute her mouth opened, my cock would have preferred to be castrated over and over again.
After she’d pursued me for years, I’d finally given in, and we dated. I learned quickly that she only wanted me for two things – to gain stature in town and inherit my ranch. Her persuasive mouth and willing body overpowered my senses at the time. I’d thought I was in love at first, and made the mistake of staying with her out of guilt. Why the heck was she here now? It must had taken her at least an hour to ride to my ranch on her bike. She had probably taken a short cut through the forest.
I pulled my shirt over my head, sweat sticking the fabric to my back and chest as I stepped out of the barn.
“Hi, Eric,” she chirped, hopping off her bike, swaying her curvy hips toward me.
“Claire.” I nodded a lukewarm greeting, wondering what excuse she’d have this time to see me. It had been over two years since I’d called things off after catching her with her legs spread wide open in a friend’s barn – and needless to say, we hadn’t been friends since then. “Can I help you with anything?”
“Oh, just stopping by with some blueberry muffins. I picked the fruit this morning.”
“Thank you, but you didn’t have to.”
“Nonsense, Eric. I doubt your city visitor can bake. She’d ruin her manicured hands.”
“You leave Emma alone, Claire.” I’d prayed my ex wouldn’t get a chance to run into Emma in town, but doubted my luck. Claire sauntered toward me, handing me the basket.
“She’s a bit skinny for you, Eric. Maybe if you give her my muffins, she could grow a curve or two.”
“Are they poisonous?” I asked, only half kidding. Claire was one of those women who’d stoop as low as she could to make a point. I just wished I’d known that before we got involved.
“Oh, please.” She waved her hand, forcing a laugh. “You’re so funny. If I wanted her out of the picture, she’d already be gone, Eric. She’s obviously not a country girl. I give it another week before she flees for a cappuccino from her corner coffee shop. So I’ll just let nature take its course. How did you two meet?” she asked.
“We have a mutual friend in New York.”
“Hunter? I haven’t seen him in such a long time. Is he still single?”
“No, Claire. And you know he’s too smart to fall for your tricks.”
She placed her hand over her heart and opened her mouth in astonishment as if I’d just offended her.
“Eric, you know I wouldn’t do anything to hurt you again. I’m sorry for what happened. Really. If you could just listen…”
“Claire, we’re over. We were never meant to be. What happened is history.”
She lowered her hand to her buttoned up shirt, popping the top fastening loose.
“It’s a hot day today. Can I bother you for a glass of water?”
Aha! I’d forgotten that Claire was the master of changing a topic, but if that was all it would take for her to leave me, I was willing to fetch her water all the way from hell.
I breathed out a sigh. “Sure.”
We went to the house where I poured her a glass. When I turned around, she was standing almost in my face. I pushed the glass between us, needing more space.
“Thank you.” Claire’s voice lowered to a seductive whisper. She pursed her mouth and took a sip of the water before the glass slipped from her hand and soaked her top, revealing much more than anyone could take in. Her nipples poked out, responding to the cold. Luckily I’d caught the glass before it crashed to the floor.
“Oh, look at clumsy me.”
“It’s all right, Claire.”
“I should wait until this dries.” She tugged at the hem of her shirt and brought it over her head, leaving her in her see-through bra. She sauntered over to the back yard and wrung out the top, flinging it over the railing.
Fuck!
I stood there speechless for a moment, shocked. This wasn’t good. Whatever Claire was up to, it had to end now.
“You really shouldn’t do that.” I pointed to her chest.
“It’s nothing you haven’t seen before.”
“You should really leave, Claire.”
“Well, I can’t until this dries, silly. How am I going to ride my bike?”
I removed the shirt off my back and handed it to her. “Here, use this. You can give it back to me another time. But you need to leave now.” My voice echoed through the room. This girl was too much! I pulled my shirt over her head, forcing it onto her, grasped her wrist, and led to the front door.
“I understand you’re busy, Eric. When would be a better time for me to…”
“Never, Claire. What you’re trying to do is not going to work. I’m with Emma now.”
“How long is Emma staying?” she asked, as I flipped the kickstand up from underneath her bike.
“It depends.” I really wanted to tell her it was none of her business, but that would only add ammunition to her visit.
“Already bored?” She ran her finger down my arm, slightly scraping my skin with her nail. “I’m still here for you, Eric. For anything you need. Anything
at all.”
Yeah, the ‘anything’ she’d given to everyone else behind my back. At least that was the word around town. I removed her hand from my agitated flesh, saying, “With all due respect, you have nothing that I’ll ever want. I think you should leave now.” I handed the bike to her.
She sighed, shaking her head as if I had just lied. “She’s not good for you. She’ll leave for her big city, overstuffed purses, and Louboutins. But I’ll be here.” Claire stepped closer, lightly pressing her body against my side arm and kissing my bare bicep. I wanted to pull away, but the way she was standing, locking me between her and the bike, would have caused her to lose balance and knock the buckets of water behind her over. As much as I’d have loved a good laugh, I didn’t feel like filling those up again.
“Here.” She lifted the bag full of muffins from the bike’s basket and hooked them onto my fingers. “At least take these.”
She turned around before I got a chance to refuse, hopped on her bike, and left, yelling over her shoulder, “I hope to see you on Saturday at the dance, Eric. You owe me one.”
What the hell?
After stomping all over my heart, was she seriously expecting a dance from me?
“A promise is a promise!” she yelled from the front of the driveway, reminding me that it was Claire who had run into Annabelle on the road after my sister escaped, making me indebted to the one person I dreaded. Well, if it was only a dance, it couldn’t hurt and the sooner I fulfilled her request, the better. Now I wished I hadn’t avoided her at the previous fests.
Emma had been gone for better part of the day. I checked on the stew simmering in the crock pot and went to shower, trying to forget about the visit from the wicked witch with my memories of Emma against the glass door. I closed my eyes and nearly felt her body pressed against mine, sliding and writhing in my arms, giving herself to me like she would always be mine. Yes, this was exactly what I needed. Emma. I loved the way she succumbed to my needs, yet drove me crazy by using my body without hesitating to satisfy her own. In fact, I loved everything about her. Her wit and charm, uplifting spirit, and that silky skin that drove me to the brink of my sanity. As my hand drew down to wash the lower part of my body, my cock stood at mast. A simple thought of my Emma, and I was done. I grasped myself, sliding my hand from the root up to the tip and back down again, remembering how tightly Emma’s slick pussy wrapped around me. Her velvety warmth coaxed me as she rocked her hips on me. My rhythm sped up and my cock strained. I could feel energy collecting in my balls, contracting each time a clear vision of naked Emma flashed behind my eyelids. Tugging in shorter spurts, I felt my mouth open and I leaned my left hand against the wall, somewhat supporting my body. My head lolled forward under the shower as the pressure in my groin gave in, exploding outward.