Page 25 of Mechanic

“You have met my brother Adyr, seated next to Jorden. To Adyr’s right is Tavan Russell, the town doctor.”

Chayce pauses a moment, taking another pull from his beer.

“This gentleman is Guri Hamilton. His family owns and operates the grocery store in town.”

As Chayce takes his seat, the last men to be introduced repeat the motion of raising their drinks in a silent toast.

“Gentlemen, before we get started, I want to thank you all for coming out to make sure we have everything ready for the grand opening,” I say in appreciation.

Taking a deep breath, I continue with my brief speech, hoping that they understand my sincerity.

“Also, thank you. This whole town has been patient, kind, and welcoming. Words can’t express how much both Aymond and I appreciate it. If there is anything you need tonight, please let Mandy know. When the evening is over, if you have any suggestions on how we can improve this experience, don’t hesitate to let me know.”

Catching the eye of the dealer, he starts the game. Stepping to the side, I prop myself against the wall and sip my Scotch, silently observing.

Chapter 16

Antonia

The closer I got to Padston, New York, the more excited I got.

While I took my time traveling during my first day, by lunchtime on the second day, I gave up and decided to drive straight through.

Shawna called me not long after leaving Las Vegas, and during our call reminded me about going to the manager’s office to see a Rhodee Martin for my housing arrangements.

While driving, Shawna finally caved and told me about the conversation she had with Tony the day I left the casino.

That day, Shawna did something so out of character for her. She confronted Aymond in his office about Tony.

Pushing thoughts of Tony behind me, my focus returns to the road.

Covering my mouth as another yawn escapes me, my eyes start looking for an exit with a hotel and some food.

Lucky for me, the very next exit I come across has both. Bonus, it even has a gas station next door, so I can get everything in one stop.

While I am somewhere in Ohio and could make it to Padston in six or so hours, I don’t think Rhodee will be around in the middle of the night to help me. With my yawns becoming more frequent, it wouldn’t be a sage choice either.

Pulling into the brightly lit parking lot surrounding a mid-size hotel, I back into a spot against the building.

Luck has been on my side that no one has tried breaking into my car packed full of my belongings. Hopefully, my streak will continue for at least one more night.

After a good night's sleep and getting everything I needed near the hotel I stayed at, I made my way back onto the highway.

After five and a half more hours, I reach the Padston city limits. The gazebo in the middle of a roundabout is well taken care of and surrounded by flowers just starting to bloom.

The GPS guides me down Main Street and my gaze moves back and forth, taking note of the various businesses and their locations.

For a small town, there is a decent amount of foot traffic on the sidewalks.

Ignoring the rumblings of my stomach reminding me that it’s lunchtime, I continue to the casino.

Two buildings sit side by side in front of me. One is a tall, gray-colored building that climbs high into the air. The short building next door is its complete opposite. Neon lights proudly display the Wildfire’s name and logo, sitting on the top edge of the black brick facade.

A car horn blaring from behind me brings my attention back to the parking lot. Giving a wave, I maneuver my car to an out-of-the-way space.

Taking a moment to center myself, a smile takes over my face. This feels right, like I am meant to be here.

Grabbing my purse off the passenger side floor of the car, I grab a sweater just before stepping outside. The sun is shining, but the chilly air reminds me that I am no longer in the desert.

---