Page 34 of Rescuing Riley
A group of bikers pedaled by. Cars passed slowly.
Before Josh knew what was happening, Riley’s small, cold hand was clutching his. “If you don’t mind me asking, what happened to your mom?”
Josh glanced at their connection and swallowed hard, mainly because he wanted her so badly, not because she’d brought up his mom. He thought about Mom all the time, especially when he saw a bride. His mom loved weddings.
“Shortly after I was discharged from the Navy, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She died shortly after she found out.”
Riley squeezed his hand as they both fixated on the wedding dress. “I’m sorry for your loss.”
A pain gripped his chest. Dad and Josh hardly spoke of Mom. It was still too painful for both of them. But holding Riley’s hand seemed to ease the pain.
“I don’t know how long I can stay, but if you need my help or advice on wedding planning for one of your guests, I would be happy to chip in.”
Josh kissed the back of her hand. “Thank you.”
She blushed as she pointed at the For Sale sign in the window. “Do you know why the shop is for sale?”
“Business has been slow for the owners. Actually, since we cut back on weddings at the inn, we haven’t had the draw in town. The big tourist attractions are hikes into the redwoods, whale watching, fishing, and outdoor sports like zip-lining.”
She lifted up on her toes, pressed her lips to his good ear, and whispered, “This would be a great place to open up a dress shop.” Her tone was excited and sultry, and because of that, an inferno lit inside him.
Josh was about to do something he’d been dying to do since she’d walked into the inn—kiss her deeply and passionately. But Charlie nudged Josh’s free hand, breaking the hold Riley had over him.
“A man is saying hi to Charlie,” Riley said.
Josh turned and found Dr. Keller, the town veterinarian and Charlie’s doctor, waving at them as he hurried into Sweets and Treats, the local bakery that served delectables for both humans and dogs.
Josh returned the wave then gave Riley his full attention again. He didn’t kiss her because the spark had died for the moment, although he was a million percent sure the need to pepper kisses up and down her beautiful neck, face, and body would hit him hard again.
But right then, he had a burning question for her. “Back to the bridal shop. Are you saying you would move to California?”Please say yes.
She gave him the most heart-stopping smile. “Maybe.”
Josh would take a maybe. Maybes were good. No, they were great. This called for a celebration. The sign for Cup of Joe’s poked out in the distance. “There’s a diner down the street that has some good coffee. Why don’t we grab a cup, and I’ll fill you in on Redwood Cove and what we have to offer.”
She giggled. “You like that I would move here.”
Likewasn’t the word Josh would use. “Might as well have all your facts to be able to make a decision.”
“I only need one fact.”
Josh cocked an eyebrow when his phone vibrated against his leg. He was tempted to drop the nuisance piece of metal into the trash can, but it could be the SFPD. He dug the phone out of his pocket and answered it.
“Josh. Oh my God.” Taylor sounded rattled. “Two men from Boston were here, asking for Liza. They’re with the FBI. I told them you were looking for her too. They’re on their way to see you.”
“Did they tell you anything? Why they wanted to talk to Liza?”
“No. The only thing they said was that she could be in danger and to call them if I hear from Liza. I’m scared, Josh.”
The woman was frightened for sure. Yet something was bothering him. “Did you lie to Riley and me about talking to Liza that day we were at your place?”
She was breathing heavily as though she’d been running. “I promise I told you the truth.” Taylor didn’t strike Josh as the type to be involved in anything bad.
“Did the FBI say when they would be here?”
Riley’s jaw came unhinged.
“They left the office well over an hour ago.”
Depending on traffic, the agents could’ve been at the inn as they spoke.
