Page 114 of Valor

“No,” Conner replies. “We checked the till and everything in the back. I doubt anyone even came in. Maybe it was just a rock kicked up by some passing car?”

Maybe. Good news is it wasn’t a robbery.” I turn to Deputy Poland. “I’ll call Mr. Hunt and see if they have any plywood lying around until the hardware store opens tomorrow. The brothers are out of town, so take Deputy Lenson and head that way. I’ll call you if Mr. Hunt doesn’t answer or doesn’t have any on hand we can borrow.”

“Yes, Sheriff,” he says, then heads toward his patrol car.

“You really don’t have to go through all that trouble,” Talia tells me.

“No trouble at all,” I tell her with a smile. “Glad to help.” I withdraw my phone and tap on Tommy Hunt’s phone number. He answers on the second ring.

“What can I do for you, Sheriff?”

“Hey, Mr. Hunt, something shattered the front windows of the diner. I was wondering if you have any plywood lying around? We could use some sheets to board it up for the night.”

“Oh no, are Talia and Conner okay?”

“They’re fine. Weren’t here when it happened.”

“That’s good. Yeah, I have quite a few sheets lying around for a couple of projects. Let me get some boots on and I can go load it in the truck.”

“That would be great, thanks. I sent two deputies out your way just in case. They’ll be there to help load it up.”

“That is very appreciated,” he says with a light laugh. “I’ll get the truck ready to go so we can load it as soon as they get here.”

“I really appreciate it.”

“Anytime. Have a good night, son.”

“You too, Mr. Hunt.” I end the call but keep my cell in hand. “Tommy Hunt is going to loan you some plywood.”

“That is so wonderful. Thank you.” Talia takes a deep breath and turns toward the diner.

“We’ll find out what happened. And if someone did this, I’ll find them.”

“I know you will. Would you like a cup of coffee? I need to do something, or I’m going to lose my mind.” Talia laughs nervously. I can see how stressed she is—it’s written all over her face and painted by her body language.

It hurts my heart. These are good people.

I glance down at my phone. It’s only been about fifteen minutes since I dropped Lani off. Is she in bed yet? “That would be great, thanks.” I open up the phone and fire a text off to Lani.

Me: Someone shattered the front window of the café. It’s handled for now; your dad is loaning them some plywood to board the broken window. I’m heading in for a cup of coffee and was wondering if you’d like to join. I can come and pick you up?

When she doesn’t immediately respond, I shove the phone into my pocket and head up the steps. She’d said she had patient charts to go over, but I can’t help but wonder if she’s not already asleep. And if she is, tomorrow is soon enough to spend more time with her. “If you get me a broom, I’ll start sweeping some of this glass up,” I offer.

* * *

Lani is allI’ve been able to think about. From the time I got home last night to the time I woke up this morning, she’s been on my mind. Her smile, her gorgeous eyes, the sound of her laughter.

The sight of her in that gorgeous green dress that absolutely stole my breath.

That kiss.

I can still feel it on my lips.

Her shift doesn’t start until seven this morning, so I’m standing on the doorstep of her apartment, two coffees in hand, by six fifteen. It’s ridiculous, the nerves dancing in my stomach. I’ve known the woman my entire life, but after last night she’s no longer Lani Hunt: best friend. She’s Lani Hunt: the woman I hope to spend the rest of my life with.

With the tray of coffees in one hand, along with a brown paper bag containing one of my mom’s blueberry muffins, I raise my fist and knock.

No answer.

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