Page 92 of Jagger

“Well, since you put it that way.”

I adored the sound of his laughter. He pulled out a file and I sensed he’d been certain I’d take whatever the deal was. Or maybe I was his only potential buyer. Either way, he opened the file and started going over all the figures. For an old-timey doctor, he certainly had everything in order. His excellent financials were all there, as well as a layout of the building including the original plans and what he’d done to renovate the building. He had receipts from recently purchased medical equipment and full documentation on the computer system he’d purchased.

He was dead serious about selling.

The terms were more than fair. In fact, I’d be an idiot if I didn’t seriously consider purchasing his practice.

The only issue was that my money had been tied up by Joel. The bastard would stop at nothing to keep me from having a new life. Yes, I could ask Esme for a down payment, but I really didn’t want to possibly burn my friendship. “I think you’ve done an amazing job building a practice. I just don’t know if I can swing it. My past is haunting me. I might not have any money until it’s no longer tied up in the courts.”

Maybe it was small town life or the fact the doctor had been witness to others having difficulty, but he placed his hand on my arm. I tensed from the light touch.

“I’m certain we can work something out.”

“I don’t take charity.”

“Trust me, I won’t give it to you. One of my daughters was just like you, hungering for more in the big world, including romance. She didn’t think she could find it in Danger Falls. When she moved to San Francisco, I supported her decision, but I knew she’d never find happiness. Sadly, I was right. Sometimes you find happiness where you least expect or want it.”

“Was your daughter a doctor?”

His features softened, his eyes reflecting his adoration of his daughter. “Just like her old man. I was so proud.”

“Is she thriving?” I was hopeful with his answer, but I could instantly tell the subject was a sad one.

“No, Bella. She fell in love with a man who wasn’t good for her.”

“I’m sorry.”

He sat back, looking out the window in his office instead of at me. “She was a bright shining star snuffed out by a man who didn’t love her.”

“What happened?”

His words hit me harder than I’d anticipated.

“He killed her.”

The sun was no longer bright in the sky as twilight approached, the darkening atmosphere matching my sinking mood. I’d spent more time with Doctor Welby than I’d thought, enjoying watching him with a patient after looking around the place.

The filing system was antiquated, but with some time spent by hiring a college kid, the computer system could be up and running in no time. It had everything a growing clinical practice could want, including patient appointment reminders.

As I headed to my SUV, I found myself dipping my head when people passed. They continued waving or saying hello, but I felt more like a stranger than I had before.

Or maybe I was just more cognizant of my surroundings, constantly tugging the lapel of the jacket closer to my neck. So few people understood how a person’s life could change so quickly, going from hope for the future to broken glass shattered by violence and anger.

I felt that more today than I had before. Maybe I’d finally come down from a hopeful high in my attempt to navigate through the muck that my life had become. The doctor’s anguish weighed as heavily on my mind as Jagger’s former life and experiences. I was no longer certain I was the strong woman I’d built myself up to be.

Making tough choices was more difficult than I’d believed. So much so I was numb inside. However, decisions were vital if I wanted to regain control of my life.

“Ms. Winters.”

The voice was one I didn’t recognize and I immediately bristled. As I turned around, I was somewhat shocked to see a man in uniform. A sheriff’s uniform to be exact. “Yes? Is there something I can do for you?”

The man was older, maybe in his late sixties, his law enforcement uniform somewhat ill fitting. While he wore a smile, his eyes reflected the intent for malice. I knew the look well. I could write a paper on staring down a person with malevolent eyes. He scanned the street before walking closer. “I thought I’d offer you a piece of advice.”

A fresh breath of anger washed through me. My instincts were still working pretty well. He had no intention of offering me solid recommendations.

He was prepared to offer a warning.

At least I hadn’t lost all my feisty personality. I folded my arms and purposely closed the distance between us. “Well, sure, Sheriff. I do so love locals who don’t know shit about me trying to guide my existence in this beautiful little town. Go for it.”

---