Page 30 of Something Cryptid This Way Comes
“Because you were.” He shrugs. “But that didn’t stop either of us from bribing Agnes to bring us stuff from Red’s. We weren’t the only ones. You know everyone in this town has a supplier for their opposing diner.”
“You’re right.”There’s an underground network of passing take-out of the other diner so people aren’t seen defecting. People like Agnes, who’ve remained neutral in this feud, could make a fortune if they chose to charge for their services. “But Bram… Going inside is different.” I make a show of giving him the same puppy eyes Bandit is a pro at wearing me down with.
His lips twitch, but when he clamps his hand on my shoulder and pulls me toward the door, I know I’ve lost. “Come on. I’ll protect you.”
He steps in ahead of me and I follow, keeping my head ducked low. Though trying to hide behind him won’t entirely work since I’m bigger and taller. I can only hope that my red plaid shirt helps me blend into the diner’s interior decor.
Bram greets Mickey Brewer, heir to Red’s Diner, and orders two shakes. I take out my phone and pretend to check messages, but the weight of Mickey’s stare is so heavy, I have to meet it. We nod at each other and I wonder if he’s thinking I’m defecting to Red’s side.
The narrow diner is busy, and I’m sure word I’m in here will travel. The Maplewood blog has a section devoted to who saw who where. Names are rarely used, but the descriptions leave no doubt about the subject’s identity. Mine will probably say,a certain inn owner known for supporting Sparky’s was seen with a recently returned cryptid podcaster waiting at the counter inside Red’s. Our townspeople are great, but they’re a gossipy bunch. Hovering like Bram’s shadow, I will the milkshakes to arrive faster.
Finally, we have our frosty green drinks in hand, and I check that the coast is clear as I bolt outside.
Bram’s cheeks hollow as he sucks up a mouthful of milkshake, and his eyes shine with amusement, knowing exactly the good-humored chatter this will cause. “That wasn’tso bad, was it?”
“My heart’s pounding like we just pulled off a diamond heist.” I grab his free hand and press it to the center of my chest so he can feel the beat. “If word gets back to Sparky’s, I don’t know how I’ll face Amos.”
His lips quirk into a smile. “Blame me. You were just accommodating an out-of-towner.”
“An out-of-towner I’d do anything for.” I squeeze his hand before releasing my hold.
“I like the sound of that.” Instead of lowering his hand, he fists the front of my shirt and hauls me in for a kiss. His lips and tongue are cold from the shake. The mint and his unique flavor have me going back for another taste.
This one is longer, and I don’t care that we’re on the busiest street in Maplewood, I’m taking any and all opportunities I get to kiss him.
His breath fluttering over my lips, Bram rests his forehead against mine. “Do you want to get the meatloaf special from Sparky’s so people won’t think you’re changing sides?”
“Yes.” I draw back enough to see his face clearly. “I knew you got it.” I give him a playful shove.
Smiling, he slides his hand down to clasp mine and pulls me onto the sidewalk.
Sparky’s is on Maple Street, only a few blocks from Red’s. As we walk, we point out Halloween decorations we like on shops and houses, and I get some ideas for what I could do to my place next year if I stop hosting the haunted house.
Bram’s phone rings as we reach the diner. He looks at the display. “It’s Finn.”
“Talk to him. I’ll go order our food.” Leaving Bram and the evidence that I’ve been at Red’s outside on the bench with him, I stride into Sparky’s and wave at the regulars.
Aqua is the dominant color here. It has an art deco style I’ve always been drawn to. Instead of the cooking happeningbehind the counter, like at Red’s, the kitchen is in a separate space.
I order two meatloaf specials and wait by the window. Amos is busy with a group of tourists, but he waves and smiles at me, so that’s a relief. Some days, news in Maplewood travels with lightning speed. But not today.
A couple waiting for their order near me gush about their visit to the haunted house last year. They tell me they’ve purchased tickets to our opening night next weekend for their entire friend group and how it’s their favorite event of all the Halloween festivities.
Outside, Bram still has the phone pressed to his ear. He ends his call as my food arrives, boxed and bagged, and I hurry out to meet him.
He hands me the milkshake before he stands then picks up his own off the wrought-iron bench.
I take a quick sip. “Thanks. What did he say?”
Falling into step beside me, Bram pockets his phone. “I’ll tell you, but first, did anyone mention your visit to Red’s?”
“No. I guess the gossip mill is a little slow today. Plus, Amos was busy, so maybe word didn’t reach him yet.” We pass the town hall, then cut through the public parking lot behind Harmonic Circus.
“That’s good. And when he does, he’ll have seen you in his diner mere minutes after your sighting at Red’s. It’s like you’ve balanced things out.”
“I hope so.”
Bram moves closer to me to skirt around the people entering the Playhouse. Two monster movies are advertised on their marquee. “Finn confirmed the hair samples look like deer, wolf, and bear.”
