Page 16 of Sofa King Wanted

Chapter Nine

GEORGIA

When Neil comes back into the diner, he’s different. He sits down next to me, taking a sip of his coffee. We'd been having a good time until he had to go take a call.

Neil appeared to enjoy talking with different people around town. He’s been smiling and teasing me a little, which was fun. I like the banter I have with him. It’s different from what I have with everyone else.

A lot of people, more so ones not from Cottonwood, aren't my biggest fans. I know I can be rambunctious and, as many would say, “too much,” but my parents instilled in me that if someone says I'm too much, then they're just not enough to handle me. My parents were great about telling me that if that’s what people think, then it’s on them.

“Everything okay?” I ask, taking a sip of my chocolate shake. It’s way better than coffee, and I won’t make that mistake again.

“Everything is fine.” Neil leans back, putting his arm across the back of my chair.

Something’s changed in his mood, and I wonder what it is. It occurs to me that I’m the sheriff. I should be able to find out if I poke him a bit.

“My dad tells me that when my mom says things are fine, they are not in fact fine.”

“I’ll get it worked out. I always do.” He gives me a smile, but it’s not like his others. Yeah, there’s most certainly something off.

“But we're partners now, right? I might be able to help.” I don’t mention that I'm also nosy. That's what happens when you hang out with the Stitches for too long. You get a thirst for the tea.

“Partners?” This time his smile appears more genuine, making me relax back into my seat.

“I was considering getting a deputy.” I shrug like I’m still thinking about it.

“Are you doing interviews?”

“Why? You want the spot?”

“I think this town might only need one cop.”

“Well, I haven't really been thinking about a human deputy.”

“Wait, what?” His smile slips a little, and I almost laugh.

“I was thinking in the four-legged department.”

“You think you can handle that kind of responsibility?” He's back to teasing me.

“I mean, in the short time you've known me, isn't it clear that I can handle just about anything?”

“Except real blood.”

“Bro, it was gross. Have you seen real blood and, like…” I lean in closer to whisper. “Brain matter?”

“Bro?”

“Don't age yourself, Neil.”

“All right, bro.”

“See, I'm good at training. I can handle a pet.”

A bark of laughter leaves him. “I suppose you’re right.”

A few people stop and talk to us, and I have a feeling they are more curious about Neil because they think we’re dating. It takes half a second for anything new to make it through this whole town.

“Where would you like to go next?” I ask after sucking down the rest of my milkshake.

---