Page 85 of Almost Home
“I’m fine. He’s paranoid or upset I’mnotparanoid, or something like that, and he was driving me insane at the house so we are here early so I wouldn’t commit murder.” Madeline’s air had a little more vibrancy in it, but maybe only because it had an impatient, almost embarrassed edge.
Anthony shot her a furious glare. “She’s probably the most stubborn person you’ll ever meet, FYI. Brace yourself if you do end up going to lunch.”
Surprise jumped through me, though I supposed it was Anthony’s job to remember details like the fact that I’d offered to show her around last time they were here. Or maybe she’d said something? Either way, she smiled at me and ignored Anthony completely.
“Would you mind if we go ahead and sit at the conference table until Mr. Saint arrives? I have a few things to check off my list before we start, anyway.”
I waved them along behind me and flipped on the lights to the room we’d be meeting in. “I’ve got fresh coffee brewing, or you’re welcome to water or anything else we have. I can have lunch ordered in, as well, if you didn’t have a chance to eat before.”
Madeline smiled. “None for me, thank you. Though I think Anthony and Brad were just saying they wanted to get some take out.”
I took the cue. “There are a few places really close. I’d recommend the diner—everything’s great and it’s really close.”
Brad nodded and gave Anthony a stare that could only meanyou’re coming with me.“We’ll be back by twelve thirty for the meeting.”
Anthony firmed his lips but said nothing as he followed Brad out into the hallway.
“I’ll be fine for a few. Please don’t feel like you need to stay with me—when everyone’s back, I’ll be ready to dive right in. Oh, and Julian Grenier’s coming to drop something for me when he can—should be just before meeting time.”
I smiled, hearing the dismissal, and also looking forward to seeing Julian. It was a gracious send off, and I appreciated her giving me an out while also giving herself a moment alone—a novelty based on what I was seeing.
“That’s great. I’ll be right out here if you need anything.”
She was already focusing on her laptop and diving into work. Fine by me—I scuttled back to my desk and shot off a text to let Wilder know she was here and Brad and Anthony would be back right at our scheduled time. I didn’t get a response but hadn’t expected to since he’d be here any minute anyway. In the meantime, I finished updating my resume while trying not to wonder about the woman in the other room.
I’d started the resume update to fill time this morning since chatting with Wilder hadn’t been an option and most of my essential jobs were done until tomorrow. After Bruce arrived, I’d have more to do consistently, but in these beginning stages, the work really ebbed and flowed.
The front door opened, and a man with a baggy brown suit stepped inside. I didn’t recognize him, though I didn’t know everyone in town yet.
“Welcome to Saint Securities. How can I help you?”
A fizzy, enervated feeling filled my chest. I hadn’t actually helped a customer who didn’t have an appointment. I really had no idea what to do with them other than schedule a meeting with Wilder.
“Me? I just stopped by to see what this place was.” He offered a smiled as he perused the art on the walls and the stone fireplace.
“We offer a variety of services. As a new company, we’re extremely nimble and can meet just about any need as it pertains to personal security, though I will have to refer you to the owner for really detailed questions.” I stood and stepped to the side of my desk.
Normally, I stood when people came in because the next step was to show them to the conference room or Wilder’s office. It seemed odd to stay sitting while someone was milling around the reception area.
“Is he available today? I do have some unique needs.” His eyes flicked to mine, then back to the fireplace.
A wisp of warning snaked through me, but I couldn’t figure out why. Even so, I felt strongly I shouldn’t tell the truth in response to his question. “He’s wrapping up with a client now, but he’ll be ready any minute. I can put you on the schedule for later this afternoon and you can come back.”
His head snapped up to study me, and I rushed to add, “Or, uh, of course you’re welcome to wait.”
“I’ll wait.”
“Oh, good,” I said weakly, my throat dry and my heart sprinting. I had no real reason to feel so unnerved by this guy, but as I’d heard Wilder call it, myuh-ohfeeling was blaring. Maybe I just needed more information—get some details that would help me feel better. Heck, maybe this guy was a long-lost Saint cousin or somebody’s uncle from out of town. “What did you say your name was?”
His eyes shifted to the side, then back to me. “Korry Taggart.”
“Well, uh… why don’t I get you something to drink while you wait? Water? Coffee?”
Evidently pleased by this, he smiled broadly. “Coffee, please. Milk, two sugars, if you have it.”
“No problem. Just give me a moment. Feel free to have a seat, if you like.” I waved to the couches like he couldn’t very clearly see them since he stood three feet from one, but at least my arm moved fast enough he likely couldn’t tell how hard I was shaking.
Adrenaline cranked through me as I walked down the hall, and my mind spun. Wilder would be back any minute now.Right?My watch said ten minutes until our meeting had been scheduled to start, plus he’d typically be at least a few minutes early.
