Page 52 of First Chance

“Has anyone heard from Frank?”

“No, last we checked, he is still at the motel we dropped him at, but I don’t think he’s brave enough to try anything. It’d be a hike to get back up here just to fuck with us when he doesn’t have a vehicle.”

“All this shit started not long after he got here.”

“I know, but if he was involved, he would have to have someone helping him out, and so far, there haven’t been signs of that. All we can do is wait.” Hayes whistles into the bunkhouse and everyone starts our way. “I tried to get them in their best shirts. I know you don’t want to embarrass her.”

“I never said that.”

He side-eyes me. “Right.”

“Not all of us can be a pretty boy like you, Jensen.” That’s a stretch of a statement because Hayes is every bit as rough around the edges as me but he knows how to dress. He takes pride in his haircut and his tattoos. His Indian motorcycle is never dirty.

“Luckily, for you, it seems like Jo isn’t into pretty boys.”

“What the fuck does that mean?”

“I’m used to deflecting female attention, but she hasn’t so much as bat aneyelash at me.”

“I think your callousness towards women is screwing with your brain. I told her she can’t involve herself with you guys.”

“Us guys, specifically? Or are you included in that?” He smirks, backing toward the house where he will inevitably offer to ride with the woman I can’t stop thinking about because he knows I can’t.

“Shut the fuck up.”

“Yes, boss.” He laughs loudly when I flip him off in response.

Chapter Eighteen

Jo

Everything is going perfectly. I’ve set up my basket for the silent auction, and I’ve spent an hour sprinkling hints to potential donors to bid on a private tour with the bears.

I broke the news of my plan to Lochlan as soon as we arrived here, and he was furious. Of course, I expected it.

He didn’t tell me to take it off the table, but he did grumble something and storm off.

I know where the tables are that I reserved for Second Chance Sanctuary, so he won’t be far, but I haven’t been brave enough to go apologize. He already can’t stand to be near me half the time.

As I round a table to go talk to another potential bidder, I see my parents and freeze. I told them I wasn’t available tonight because I hoped this event would be big enough not to be seen.

My brother is behind them, and I watch his eyes squint as he locks in on me. He leans in to talk to his campaign manager, Austin, but I turn and book it the other direction.

I’m halfway across the room when I hear his voice behindme. “JoAnna.”

“Not today, Austin.” He’s been my brother’s best friend for years, and I haven’t been able to stand him for an equal amount of time.

“Your brother and parents expect you to join them,” he says, still following behind me as my legs move on autopilot, trying to get away.

“I’m not able to join them. I’m working.”

“Working? Did you decide to become a cocktail waitress?” He snorts at his own crude joke. As if making fun of the working class is hilarious.

“I work for Second Chance Sanctuary.”

“What’s that?”

“It’s a black bear rescue.” I stop walking, turning on him so he’s forced to stop, too. “Now, if you will excuse me.”

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