Page 91 of Call it Reckless

It didn’t look like much had changed during my absence. Her smile was anything but welcoming.

“I guess things didn’t work out for you in the big city.”

Paige snorted. “Didn’t work out? Wow. That’s like saying Brad Pitt almost made it.” She grinned at the rest of us. “Have I ever told you how sweet he is to work with? I loved being attached to his movies.”

Trin’s jaw practically reached her chest.

“It’s good to be back,” I said, trying to keep things simple and civil.

“Your poor grandmother must be turning over in her grave if she knew that you were returning to your roots as a mechanic.”

“Speaking of roots,” Paige interrupted. “I do hope you’ll be able to visit the salon soon. I could do wonders with your color that would help hide those roots that are showing through. I could also give you a cut that would flatter you better. It’s so hard to find a good one that doesn’t emphasize high brows and hairlines like yours.”

Trinity’s eyes narrowed as she whirled on Paige, who didn’t flinch. I sat back to watch the show. Trin was about to meet her match.

Paige tilted her head as if she were studying a problem. “We also offer threading and waxing services. You know, if you want to clean up your brows and get rid of some of that facial hair you’ve got going on around your mouth,” Paige continued.

Trinity’s eyes flared, and I could tell she was about to let her famous temper fly once again. “How dare—”

“Ladies. How are you tonight?”

None of us had noticed Reid and Zane stop at our table.

“Hi, Reid.” She palmed his bicep and cozied a little closer. “I was just welcoming the new help in town.”

Reid must have seen me start to growl because he quickly stepped away from Trinity. “They’re most definitely a welcome addition.” He bent to give me a quick peck on the lips that ended up lingering a few extra seconds.

I heard Trinity’s small gasp, causing me to smirk beneath Reid’s lips. He winked as he settled beside me, placing his arm possessively around my shoulders. Paige and Cam covered their laughs with their napkins at the frown on Trin’s face.

Nora joined her side. “I’ve already heard your girlfriend here is stirring up more trouble.”

“If you’re referring to the street art, it seems to be a big hit. I heard the town clerk already has several submissions waiting for approval for a space on the fence.” Reid smiled at me. “I think it was a brilliant suggestion. Bringing in some new ideas is always good for a community. The old ways get so routine, wouldn’t you agree, Nora?”

Nora frowned at first, but then a gleam grew in her eye. “Oh, I wasn’t referring to that. I guess you haven’t heard about Mrs. Smith, then, have you?”

I was instantly on alert. “What happened to her? I just saw her a couple of days ago when she brought her car in to be checked out.”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, she mentioned that as well when Buck Tanner had to go out and tow her car, which doesn’t seem to work at all now.” She shook her head. “Buck says her transmission is shot. Something about an oil cap or something. I’ve no idea what that poor, old woman is going to do.”

“What? It was in perfect condition when she left. I checked it myself.”

“Yet there she was, stranded on the side of the highway by herself because her car died. All thanks to you.”

“That’s not possible. Something else must have happened.”

“Well, I’m just letting you know, out of concern for your reputation and all.”

“I—”

Reid’s hand tightened on my shoulder. “I’m sure there’s just a misunderstanding.”

Trin smiled tightly at him. “Yes, of course. I’m sure you’re right.” She tugged on Nora’s arm. “Anyway, I’m sure we’ll see you around.” She wiggled her fingers, and the two of them left, not caring that the waitress had just returned with a new salad.

I glared at Reid. “Why didn’t you let me say more? Iknowfor a fact that car was in perfect working order. Not only did Max change the oil perfectly, but he found a problem with the radiator. We double-checked everything because of the age of that car.”

“I believe you, but Trin and Nora are just going to take anything you say and twist it. Everyone loves Mary Smith, and this town loves to choose sides. It’s better we get the facts from someone other than Nora, who’s influenced by her boyfriend, who happens to be Buck Tanner.”

The anger drained from me. “Shit.”

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