Page 8 of Tumbleweed Temptation
“Oh, we lost a lot to the basin, you know, when the oil boom hit. A lot of families moved up there. And then a lot of them moved back because it’s expensive as hell to live there.”
“I had heard that.”
“And we’re just far away enough that we can’t offer cheaper housing—it’s just too far to drive.”
“Yeah, that does suck.”
She patted his arm. “I’ll talk to you later. Let me know how you like the chicken, and let me know about that party. I’ll make an effort to head on over there, for you.” She winked and moved off.
The chicken, when it was delivered by one of the fifty twelve-year-olds, was not as good as he remembered. His mom had added something to the batter, but he couldn't remember what it was. Or maybe she’d soaked the chicken in something. He couldn't remember. Maybe Ms. Tippler did, but he wasn't going to bother her now.
He left his cell number for her to give out to any prospective receptionists, paid his bill and walked out with a wave in her direction.
He didn't expect his phone to start ringing that night.
Chapter Three
Only because Laceyand Poppy insisted, did he go to The Wheel House on Saturday night.He didn't expect a lot of people would show up. Well, maybe some would, out of curiosity.
He was surprised that the first man to come greet him was Beck Conover.
“Austin, man, it’s good to see you.”
Austin shook his hand, a reluctant smile pulling at his mouth. “Hey, I didn't know you were in town. I thought you joined the military.”
“Did, went to college, worked for a bit on the race car circuit, came home to check on Mom and I’m staying a bit.” His gaze drifted away, looking for someone, obviously. “Had to be on hand to welcome you back. How’s it looking over there?”
“Man, this place is worse than I expected,” Austin said.
“This place?” some blonde asked as she passed by, gesturing to the ground, her eyebrows lifted in challenge. The new proprietor? Austin hadn’t met enough people here to know.
“The town,” Austin said. “So much has deteriorated since I left.”
“Lots of people moved north to work in the oil fields,” Beck said. “That’s where I’m working now, to be honest. But the town is, it’s good. It’s good to be back here, after going so far, so fast. It’s comfortable.”
“For you, maybe.”
