Page 122 of The Redemption of Remy St. Claire

As Remy maneuvered her car out of the parking garage the rain verged on torrential. Traffic crawled along the highway.Probably an accident up ahead. Rubberneckers.Goddammit. She wanted to get home to see her family.

Some crazy person walking in the rain on the side of the highway caught her attention. Her breath caught. Wait, she recognized that dress. She pulled to the shoulder and leaned over to open the passenger door. “Get in.”

The fact Sissy hesitated spoke volumes.

“Get in.”

Sissy eased herself into the car and closed the door.

What am I supposed to do?“Where are you going?”

Only silence.

“I have to drive you somewhere.”

Sissy looked over, and the tears intermingled with the raindrops.

Ah. Not as unaffected as she had claimed to be. Pity mingled with discomfort churned in Remy’s gut.

Finally, Sissy spoke. “The nearest bus stop will be fine.” Her voice caught onfine.

“I can take you where you’re going. I mean, it’s not a big deal.”

“What if I told you I need a ride to Vancouver?”

At least an hour there and an hour back, probably more given the weather. Without equivocation, she answered. “Where in Vancouver?”

“I was just saying…”

“You’re not living in Vancouver.”

Sissy shook her head but ventured nothing further.

“Why don’t we get you a cup of coffee?”

“I don’t drink coffee.”

“Tea, then?”

“I like hot chocolate.” An apathetic shrug accompanied the words.

Remy glanced at the passing traffic and maneuvered back into the stream. “How about I take you to White Spot? They’ve got hot chocolate, and you can let me buy you lunch.”

“I don’t need charity.”

“Maybe I just want company for lunch.” She turned into the parking lot.

“You should be home celebrating with Rusty.” The venom and sarcasm were unmissable.

Pulling into the parking spot, she slammed the brakes none-too-gently. “Today is not a day for celebration. What the hell is wrong with you?” She grabbed her purse. “Let’s go inside where it’s warm.”

Since there was no argument forthcoming, she opened her door and waited for Sissy to do the same thing. When she did, Remy stepped out of the car, watching to make sure Sissy did the same. Rounding the car, Remy met Sissy at the sidewalk and armed the remote.

“Nice car.”

“Thank you.” Not wanting to be in the rain any more than necessary, Remy headed for the door, hoping Sissy would follow.

She did.

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