Page 3 of Mistletoe Omega
He snorted and scooped a forkful of eggs into his mouth. As he chewed, he watched me intently. Once he’d swallowed he said, “I can give you a lift.”
Surprise rolled through me and I grimaced. “Oh, no. That’s not necessary.”
“Really? You’d rather stay here another eight hours than accept my offer?”
Pulling my brows tight, I said, “I wouldn’t want to put you out.”
“It’s no bother.”
“How can you know that? You don’t even know where I live.”
“Your boyfriend’s car is kind of flashy. I’ve seen it parked for almost a month over at the Wagon Train Motel. Unless he’s been meeting someone else there, I assumed that’s where you two live.” He took another mouthful of eggs, and then washed it down with coffee.
My face felt hot, and I inched away slowly. “I don’t know.”
“It’s just a ride. I’m not a serial killer.”
My laugh was way too loud. “If you were, it’s not like you’d announce it.”
He shrugged. “Suit yourself.” He went back to eating.
I walked away, feeling confused. It wasn’t as if I wanted to hang out here for hours on end. I desperately wanted to shower and put my feet up. But I felt weird accepting a ride from a customer. As Patty walked past, I grabbed her elbow. “Hey, can I ask you something?”
She stopped, her shoes squeaking on the tile. “Sure. But make it quick, I’m busy.”
“Is Graham like… a good guy?” I let go of her arm.
“What?” She frowned.
“I mean, has he ever done anything weird? Or has he ever made you or any of the staff uneasy?”
She laughed. “No. He’s been coming here for years and he’s never been anything but pleasant.”
“Don’t they always say it’s the quiet ones?”
“I’m sure there are usually warning signs. So far, all I’ve noticed about him that’s unusual is he tips well compared to the other regulars.” She raised her brows.
“Okay.”
She frowned. “Why? Did he do something?”
“No. Not at all. He offered me a ride home.”
She smiled. “Aww. He’s such a sweet heart. You should take him up on it.”
“You think so?”
“Why not? You’re gonna regret it if you let him leave. I can guarantee, around the five hour mark, you’ll wish you’d said yes.”
I sighed. “God, I would kill to rest my feet.”
“Exactly.” She smiled. “Tell him yes.”
“Maybe I will.” I tore the check from the pad and headed toward Graham. As I set the bill on the table, he looked up from his book. My stomach tensed nervously. “Does your offer still stand?”
He nodded slowly. “Of course.”
“You sure? I don’t want to put you out.”
