Page 42 of Rainbows Over Cedarwood

Colt’s head ached and he massaged his temples. They had enough? “What do you mean, he’s got enough?”

“I can’t get too specific, but the more we’ve learned, the better we can put together a case.” Jordan half smiled. “We’ve got suspects. That’s a good thing. The female suspect is also talking, so that’s even better. Once we put the details together, we can proceed. I’ll keep you in the loop.” He tipped his head. “Are you planning on going outside anytime soon?”

“No.” Colt leaned forward to look out of the windows. Three news vans were parked on the street.No…please God, they aren’t here for a comment…shit.

“Well, you don’t have to talk to the media. There’s nothing saying you must. I’d suggest you don’t, if only because it’ll give you less hassle down the road.” Jordan shook hands with Colt then Ashley. “Where’s the boy?”

“In the kitchen with Ma,” Ashley said. “I figured they were better off in there.”

“Smart. I’ll be in touch.” Jordan left them alone in the living room. The door clicked as he walked out of the house.

“Well…” Ashley smoothed his palm over Colt’s good side. “It’s not like we’re going to be able to screw like rabbits for a while. I read online it’ll be a few weeks before you’re back in action.”

“Not for the next six weeks. I can go back to the diner, but I can’t lift anything over ten pounds.” Colt gritted his teeth. He hated being infirm and he sure as hell hated having to rely on people. He also hated that they were so new in their relationship and he had to depend on Ashley so much.

“What’s wrong? Something hurts?” Ashley moved his hand. “I’m sorry. I should’ve known. Ma will have my head.”

“Ash.” He grabbed both of Ashley’s hands. He missed touching Ashley. “Slow down. I need you to trust me.”

Ashley stared at him, wide-eyed.

Colt dragged a deep breath into his lungs and winced as he exhaled. God, meds would make this easier. First, he had to calm down Ashley. “Here’s the thing. I’m on lighter duty for the next six or so weeks. That’s not fun, but it’s not awful. I’m going to make it. Now, here’s the next thing. I’m bad at relying on others unless it’s in the diner setting. When I know I can trust people, I’m willing to delegate. Until then, I’m cautious. Sound like anyone you know?”

“Me,” Ashley murmured. The corner of his mouth kinked.

“We’re two peas in a pod.” Colt cupped Ashley’s cheek. “Now I need you to trust me. I’m not Lane and I’m not about to fuck you over.” He did his best 1930s gangster impression and winked. “Stick with me, kid, and we can do anything.”

Ashley rolled his eyes, but the smile grew. “Works for me.”

“Now, where is your kid and is he eating me out of house and home?” Colt draped his arm around Ashley’s shoulders. “More power to him, if he is.” Together, he and Ashley headed into the kitchen. Wyatt sat at the island on one of the barstools and kicked his feet.

“I gave him some juice and graham crackers,” Brenda said. “Now, I’ve got to get to the bank and run to the store. You’ll be fine now.” She kissed Ashley’s cheek. “I’ll be back or just a phone call away.”

Ashley let go of Colt long enough to wander over to the window. He stood there until his mother left the driveway.

“Dad, can we stay here forever?” Wyatt asked between bites of cracker. “I like it here. There’s room to play and Colt has a backyard.” He turned his attention to Colt. “Do you have toys?”

“I don’t, but I’m sure we can bring some of yours over here.” Colt leaned against the island. Or he could go shopping and do a little spoiling. “Like blocks? Those plastic ones that hurt when you step on them? Or cars? Puzzles?” He paused. “I’ve got the tablet and a computer as well as the gaming system. I don’t have kid games on the console, but I do have access to online movies. Maybe we can find a couple you like.”

Wyatt’s lips parted and he grinned. “Online movies and a tablet? Wow. You’re rich!”

“I don’t know about that.” Although he did like nice things. “If your dad is okay with us finding a movie, I’ll order a pizza and we can hang out in the media room.”

“Media room?” Wyatt frowned. “You actually have a media room?”

“Wyatt.” Ashley placed his hands on Wyatt’s shoulders. “Think before you speak.”

“Well, Dad? Is it okay with you if we get a pizza?” Colt asked. “Eddie’s has great pie.”

“Yeah, Dad? Can we?” Wyatt stuffed the last two crackers into his mouth.

Ashley’s gaze switched between Wyatt and Colt. “I’m being double-teamed, aren’t I?” He shook his head. “Fine. No onions. Wyatt’ll eat anything else, but not onions.”

“Yes!” Wyatt slipped off the barstool then raced out of the room. His shoes clunked hard on the floor and the sound echoed through the quiet house.

“He has no idea where the media room is.” Ashley scooped up the crumbs and deposited them into a napkin. “But he’ll snoop until he finds it.”

“That’s okay.” Colt rounded the counter and snagged Ashley in his embrace. “I found exactly what I needed when you walked into the diner with the single fathers group. You changed my life.”

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