Page 30 of Coty

Matthew glances at the two men across the room. He slightly puffs out his chest. Sadly for him, it doesn’t make him look threatening. “Look, McLeod. You and your family need to stay away from me and mine.”

“Can’t. Won’t.” Jay growls deep.

Matthew swallows hard. Fear briefly flashes in his eyes.

Angie sighs. She turns and smiles at Finley. “Finley, sweetie. Can I get you anything?”

“Yes, Miss Angie. We’d like more biscuits and honey butter, please.” She cuts her eyes at her brother. “Mom asked for them.”

Matthew huffs and storms back to their table. It’s the smartest move he’s made tonight. I release Jay when his body relaxes. Whew. That had me worried. There’s no way I could’ve stopped him if he went after Matthew. Jay’s taller, bigger, and definitely stronger than I am.

“Would your family like more jams and jellies too?” Angie’s always the server, no matter how much she wants to tell people off. Not Finley, though. She’s the sweetest member of her family.

“Yes, ma’am. A mixture, if you don’t mind. I’d really love extra blackberry, please.” Finley’s eyes lock with Jay’s before moving to mine. “Thank you, Coty. I hope you have a lovely evening.” She goes back to her family and pretends to enjoy their celebration.

Jay and I return to our table. The food looks great, but neither of us has an appetite. I flag one of the servers down and ask for two to-go boxes.

“You wanna go to the Roadhouse with me?” It’s best to get Jay out of here.

He shakes his head. “I’m going to make sure everyone gets home safely. I don’t trust Matt, and I sure don’t trust those two.” He glares at the two men.

“Racers?”

Jay shrugs one shoulder. “Sometimes. They bet more than they race.”

Awe. Matthew must owe them money. The preacher’s son used to slip off to The Field during the summer months. We definitely need to stay out of this. I couldn’t care less if Matthew’s debtors are hunting him down. I have better things to do tonight. My phone dings with a text.

Sparky:I have to have dinner with my parents tomorrow. Rain Check.

I toss my phone on the table and slouch down in my chair. If I go to the Roadhouse now, I’ll cross lines and demand she talk to me. I vowed to do this at her pace. I’m an idiot. I’m trying to be gentle, like Jack is with Lily. I now understand his struggle. Being patient will drive a man insane.

“Looks like I’m with you tonight.” If I can’t have what I want, I can at least make sure my friend doesn’t end up in jail.

Chapter 15

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Kayla

Sundays are supposed to be for relaxing. I usually sleep in since I close Saturday nights at the Roadhouse. Well, technically, it’s Sunday morning. The bar closes at 2 am on the weekends. My afternoons are spent on the couch with a tray of snacks while watching a movie, or at the Viking Den. Since Coty’s been back, I’ve watched lots of movies.

I arrive at my parents’ house at six on the dot. Arriving early to spend quality time with my parents is a big no. It’s doubtful they know the definition of quality time anyway. Of course, my brother was already here. He’s probably been here all afternoon.

David is the golden child of our family. Nearly everyone in town loves my brother. Our parents sometimes message me updates about him. It’s okay if they don’t. David’s wonderful accomplishments make it through the gossip circles in this town on a regular basis. I try to tune it out. It makes me sick listening to how great my brother is. It wouldn’t be so bad if they didn’t give me the little side glance as if to ask,What happened to you?Yes, I’m the family screw up.

“Hey, little sister.” David meets me at the door before I can knock.

“Hey.” I hang my coat on the hanger by the door. “How was your week?”

“It was good. Yours?”

“It was okay.” Making small talk is the worst.

Laughter comes from the kitchen. My parents have guests. Oh wow. I wasn’t expecting company. I stop and look up at David. Laughter isn’t common in this house.

“Aunt Ellen is staying a few days,” David answers my unspoken question.

Great. Dad’s sister is here. Her charming personality is as awesome as Dad’s. I should leave now.

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