Page 14 of Hunting the Truth
“Not really,” Josh said.
“We should eat something anyway,” Maya said, getting up to get away from being so close to Josh. She pulled the food out of the bag and started to plate everything to reheat it in the microwave. “Maybe we can look over the evidence in Nana’s case again tonight. And my mom’s case.”
“Maya, we’ve been over that so many times. Maybe we should just leave it alone. At least for tonight. Relax a little bit.”
“Yeah, you’re probably right.”
Josh brought their food over and they both picked at their sandwiches. Josh finally pushed his plate back and stared Maya in the eyes. A smile flickered across his face, bringing out Maya’s favorite dimple.
“What?”
“Neither of us is hungry right now. I’ll put the food in the fridge for later,” Josh said, standing up. As he went over to the fridge, he turned on the radio. A Chris LeDoux song came on. “I think we should relax tonight. Or at least try. As much as either of us can.”
“What do you suggest?”
“How about a dance?” Josh said, holding out his hand to her. “I mean, Chris LeDoux—you can’t turn that down.”
“I’m impressed you know Chris LeDoux.” Maya smiled, taking Josh’s hand. “Not bad for a city slicker.”
“Thanks.”
“I haven’t danced in a long time. I might be a bit rusty.”
Juniper lifted her head and turned around, although she stayed on her dog bed.
“We should be careful. We could have someone interrupt our dance,” Maya said, nodding toward Juniper watching them.
“I’ll take my chances,” Josh said, as they stepped together.
Maya and Josh found their rhythm and even added in a few spins. She found herself enjoying the time with Josh. It had been a long time since she had danced with anyone, and for a moment, Maya forgot everything that was going on. It seemed like a small sliver of time where she could find joy and everything seemed so perfect, but Maya knew that nothing was ever perfect and eventually the song would end.
They were about ready to get a little closer dancing when Juniper leapt off her bed, lunging toward the window, barking and growling.
“What the heck?” Josh said.
Maya dropped his hand and went over to the front door, where she grabbed the shotgun. “Get away from the window in case there’s someone out there.”
“What are you talking about?” Josh had a confused look on his face.
Maya called Juniper over and the dog came, nails clicking on the floor. “Just get away from the window and I’ll tell you.”
She retreated with Juniper and her shotgun back to the hallway that led to her bedroom. Josh followed them.This morning it was just foxes. Why do I keep feeling like someone is out there? I think I’m losing my mind.
“What’s going on?” Josh asked, starting to look irritated. “Do I need to get some deputies up here?”
“Yes. No. I don’t know,” she answered, setting the shotgun down and leaning back against the wall. Juniper came over and pushed her head into Maya’s hand. She started scratching Juniper behind the ears.
“What aren’t you telling me?”
“I just... It’s that...” Maya didn’t even know where to start. “I think I’m just dealing with some paranoia. From PTSD and as an addict. You know how it is. But I feel like someone is watching me and Juniper keeps barking at the window like that.”
“I know that paranoia can happen, and I’ve experienced it, but I’ve never thought someone was watching me. Maybe you should trust your instincts. Maybe someone is watching you.”
“I know. This isn’t normal.” Maya sighed and rubbed her temples.
“I can go out with you and Juniper and clear the area. I would be happy to stay here tonight if it would make you feel better. I can sleep on the couch.”
“No.” Maya stepped out from behind the wall and back into the living room. Juniper came with her and didn’t react again. “I think I’m even making Juniper jumpy, but we’ll be fine. I mean, this morning I actually went out and cleared the area around the cabin and it was just a fox family out hunting. I’m sure I’m not being watched. I bet the foxes are back or even a black bear looking for food for hibernation. I’m just overreacting.”
