“MISS MAGGIE, ARE YOU sure I can’t take my seahorse? Grandmamma bought it last year. I think the duck tape is still on it. I–”
“No. There will be floats there. Come on, hop up into the truck.” Maggie ushered Poppy’s still chatting form into the cab. She shook her head at the child as she closed the passenger door and rounded the front. Poppy’s voice greeted her as she opened the driver’s door. She smiled. The kid never hushed.
“–and I told Sophie yesterday that I was happy to be able to go. It’ll be so much fun. Will Mr. David be there, Miss Maggie? He’s so nice. Sophie said he was, and Sophie is always right, you know. She knows a lot.”
Maggie put the truck in reverse and backed out of the parsonage’s driveway. Within moments, interspersed with a few of Poppy’s praises for Sophie, she arrived at the riverside picnic site. Cars and trucks littered the edges of the road. She peered through her lashes as she got out of the truck and pulled her covered dish from the seat. No sign of the red motorcycle. Not yet. She held back her sigh.
“Miss Maggie, can I go on down to the pier? I see Sophie there.”
Maggie ruffled Poppy’s hair. “Go ahead, sweetie. And stay out of the water. You can’t swim, and I don’t feel like getting wet today.” But she was talking to thin air as Poppy’s skinny body hurled itself in reckless abandon down to the water’s edge. Maggie shook her head and kicked the door closed. Three days of constant badgering about the picnic from the excited child. Amazing that Poppy restrained herself this long.
Maggie navigated the worn dirt path that led to the wooden pier. At the base of the path, the women of the church had tables erected and covered with food and drinks.
Maggie slid through a throng of teenagers.
“Hey, Miss Maggie!”
“Is that your cinnamon bites?”
“Love your sandals!”
“Miss Maggie, glad you made it.”
The chorus of their voices worked a smile out of her.
Two of the boys followed her as she set her largest casserole dish on the table by the pies and cakes.
“Hey, not now.” She slapped their hands as they snagged the small cinnamon and sugar coated biscuit bites.
They laughed and took off, each with a handful of the treats. She rolled her eyes. Doubtful there would be any left by the time they sat down to eat.
“Maggie, I was afraid you wouldn’t make it.” Sarah rounded the corner of the table and wrapped her into a hug.
Maggie returned the embrace. “I had a tough time convincing Poppy that she didn’t need her seahorse float. She seems to think the duct tape would keep it afloat.”
“Poor child. Where is she now?”
Maggie pointed to the pier where Poppy stood next to the raven-haired Sophie and her friend Amy Myers. “She has determined that Sophie is her new best friend.”
Sarah laughed and squeezed the dishes closer together as another woman set her items on the table. “Sophie adores her. She told me last night that she is going to make sure Poppy is happy. She even went through her closet to choose some shirts for her.”
Maggie closed her eyes to hold back the tears that threatened to pour forth. She pressed her fingertips against her trembling lips. Never had she thought another person could care for Poppy like she herself could.
“Oh, Maggie, sweetheart, what’s wrong?” Sarah pulled at her arm, leading her away from the table and over to an empty area near the water’s edge.
The tall blades of grass swayed in the gentle wind. Children squealed and laughed. Poppy and Sophie threatened the older boys who splashed water at them. People milled around the pier or the tables laden with food, or they lounged on the chairs and chaises dotting the small bank. These were her church family. Poppy’s church family.
Sarah rubbed her hand up and down Maggie’s upper arm. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing.” Maggie brushed at her eyes, swiping the tears away. “It just hit me suddenly that I don’t have to do this alone. For the last year or so, I kept believing that I was alone in taking care of Poppy. Until now.” She motioned at the people. “Poppy has a family. And look at her. She’s so happy with Sophie. But it won’t last. Josephine comes home, and then Poppy will be back in that miserable house.”
“Oh, sweetie.” Her cousin pulled her into a tight embrace. “Even though she’ll be back there, we’ll always be here for Poppy and for you.” Sarah held her at arm’s length and peered at her. “Jeremy told me the other day that he’ll make sure he drives by Poppy’s home on his route to make sure she’s okay.”
Maggie sank down to the ground and wrapped her arms around her knees. “But why? Strike that. I know why, but I don’t understand the reasoning. Poppy isn’t yours or anyone’s responsibility.”
Sarah’s shoulder brushed against her as she sat beside her, her flip-flops sliding slightly in the mud. “You love Poppy. And through that, we have come to love her. Look at them. Even the boys care about her.”
Maggie watched as Dennis held Poppy’s hand as she negotiated the slippery bank to the water’s edge. Marty Jr. stood ankle deep in the water, his hand held out as Poppy was transferred to him. With an easy lunge, she hopped up onto Marty’s back as he gave her a piggy back ride into waist-deep water. Her high-pitched laughter echoed over to Maggie.
Maggie sniffled. “I never thought I would be so blessed to know such a sweet child. And she talks incessantly about David.”
Sarah laughed. “He has that charm over ladies, that’s for sure.”
Maggie plucked at a grass blade. Embarrassment stole over her. “Can I ask you something?”
“Hmm. Let me guess. About that darling, troublemaker brother-in-law of mine?”
Maggie giggled and immediately clamped her hand over her mouth. Good gracious, she sounded like a schoolgirl. “Yeah. I talked to him the night when I picked up Poppy.”
“And?” Sarah leaned back on her hands and watched the children’s horseplay.
“And. . .we talked. And. . .” She plucked another blade of grass and twisted it around her finger. “And we kissed.”
Sarah gasped and turned so fast that her ponytail slapped her across the chin. “No! You waited until now to tell me?” She sat up, practically bouncing. “Do tell. How was it? What happened?”
Heat spread across Maggie’s face. Oh, boy. She should have kept her mouth shut, but she had to tell someone. A shadow fell across her. She looked up as Darlene plopped down beside her.
“Hey. What’s up? What’s the gossip?”
Sarah leaned forward, motioning Darlene closer. “Maggie was just about to tell me about her kiss with David.”
Darlene covered her mouth with her hands. Her muffled voice held a hint of glee. “No!” She dropped her hands and gripped Maggie’s. “Do tell, do tell. I knew something was up when I was at his apartment yesterday.”
Maggie squinted at Darlene. “What do you mean?”
Darlene waved a hand. “Oh, I asked about you, and he had this little smile. But he wouldn’t tell me. So . . .”
Another blush worked its way across her cheeks. The heat flowed down her neck, or maybe that was the sun. “Well, we were talking about Poppy. Sitting on my tailgate.”
“Oh, I like the tailgate talks.”
“Hush, Sarah. Let her speak.”
Maggie smiled at Darlene. Another blade of grass fell victim to her fingers. “It wasn’t planned or anything, but he leaned in and kissed me. But . . .”
“But?” Sarah frowned. “That doesn’t sound good.”
“Well, that’s what I wanted to speak to you about. And you, Darlene. He . . .” She bit at her lip. How should she word this?
“Did he try to coerce you? Or get you to do something you didn’t want to?” Darlene’s eyes narrowed.
“No.” Maggie patted at Darlene’s hand. “No. Nothing like that. I mean, it got a little carried away. Oh, boy, what a kiss.” Heat flamed through her again. “But I broke away. It scared me. You know how my last relationship ended. I was afraid I was about to go down that road again.”
Darlene put her arm around Maggie’s shoulders. “Smart girl. As much as I love my brother, I know how he is.”
Maggie shrugged. “What if he isn’t ready for a serious relationship? I mean, I heard the rumors about him and his conquests. Is that true?”
Sarah laughed. “No. Not at all. Of course, his attitude back then didn’t help dispel any of those rumors.”
“I agree.” Darlene shielded her eyes with a hand. “He racked up quite a reputation in school and out. Everyone believed he was this bad boy when, in fact, he was quite shy. He had a few girlfriends, but nothing serious until Rebecca.”
“So, he wasn’t this ‘wham, bam, thank you, ma’am’ kind of guy?”
Sarah shook her head. “Jeremy was the bad boy. I know, kind of hard to believe, isn’t it? The tales I could tell you about him. But David was more daring and reckless. Ever since high school, he has lived life on the edge.”
Darlene nodded. “I think that is where the rumors started. David liked the fast crowd. But now. . .” She glanced over at the tables.
Maggie followed her gaze. Coming down the small dirt path was the object of their discussion. His sandaled feet displayed confidence with every step. His shirt, tight across his strong shoulders, flapped in the breeze. Maggie smiled. His legs, long and muscular but definitely white, showed beneath his shorts.
“He’s different,” Darlene finished.
Sarah murmured her agreement. “He’s quieter. And sad.”
“I know.” Maggie sighed. “I see that in him. And I think that is what draws me to him. He’s so sad, but yet I see so much life inside him.”
Darlene’s hand fell on her arm. “Give it time, Maggie. We can tell you’re in love with him. He’ll come around if it’s meant to be.” She motioned for them to lean in closer. “And I don’t think God would mind if we start pushing him your way.”
Sarah laughed again. “Definitely not. How cool that would be . . . not only my cousin but also my sister-in-law.”
Darlene hugged Maggie. “And I wouldn’t mind having you as a sister.”
Maggie pushed at them and glanced back at David, who was making a bee-line for the tables. “I think it’s too soon to talk about that.”
“Never.” Sarah checked on the children at the water and then yelled. “Dennis! I said not to do that.”
Maggie ducked the mud that flew up from Sarah’s flip-flops as she dashed to the children. Darlene chuckled and helped Maggie to her feet. “Let’s go save the kids from Sarah. I told her it was unreasonable to expect the kids to stay out of the deep water.”
: : : : :
David watched Darlene and Sarah surround Maggie. Up to no good, they were. Maggie’s hair, pulled into a low braid, glistened under the sun. Bet the freckles were even darker today. Would she smell like cotton candy? Or something different?
He raised a brow, dodged a protruding root, and headed for the tables. The trio’s eyes burned into him, but he ignored them.
Sarah’s yell cut across the air as he rounded the edge of the table. He smiled as his sister-in-law took off after Dennis and Sophie. Now what was the problem?
He shielded his eyes from the sun and watched as Dennis and Sophie pulled Poppy back out of the water. He scoffed. The kids didn’t go in too deep. Darlene and Maggie reached her side. Looked as though Maggie was scolding Poppy. He smiled at the déjà vu feeling. A long time ago he stood where Poppy stood. He turned away from the scene.
An elderly woman stepped up to the table. His heart lifted at the sight of his old Sunday school teacher. The aroma of fried chicken floated on the air. He stepped up to Ms. Edie as she set her dish down on the table.
She gasped when he wrapped his arms around her waist. “Oh!”
“Ah, Ms. Edie.” David dropped his cheek down to hers and held her little frame to his. “You get prettier every day. When are you going to marry me?”
“Oh.” She giggled and swatted at his hands and then turned in his arms. When he let go, she patted his cheek. “You only say that because you want my chicken.”
David grinned and pressed her hands between his. “Ms. Edie, you wound me. You don’t look a day over sixty, and I have always had a thing for older women.”
“Oh, posh.” A soft blush crept across her face. “You say that every time I make your favorite fried chicken. And I’m eighty-one.” She patted his cheek again and handed him a chicken leg. “Here. Don’t tell anyone.”
David kissed her cheek. “I knew there was a reason you’re my favorite lady.”
“Oh, posh. Go on now.” She swatted at him again and nudged him away from the table. “Go on, now.”
He bit into the juicy and spicy chicken. Ms. Edie could put Colonel Sanders out of a job. He glanced over at the water. Satan Sarah had finally freed the children from her wrath, but she stood nearby, guarding them. The woman needed to lighten up. He took the last bite and dropped the bone in the large trash can near the trail.
A few of the men walked by and greeted him. David nodded back. He spotted Jeremy at the far edge, talking with Marty Sr. and Bro. Johnny. A bobbing redhead at the corner of his vision caught his attention. Poppy chatted beside Maggie. No. She was begging, pleading. Her bony little arm kept pointing at the water where the older kids horse played and splashed. Maggie shook her head. Her own arm motioned at the floats near the edge. Poppy stomped her foot and then walked away, sulking.
David grinned. So, Maggie wouldn’t allow her in the water. He’d fix that.
He scanned the water. There were his two lackeys. How to get their attention?
“What are you up to?”
He jumped at Jeremy’s voice. Sheesh, the man moved too quietly. “Nothing.” He looked down and spotted a tell-tale bulge in Jeremy’s back pocket. “Hand me your Zippo, will ya?”
“Oh, now you smoke?” Jeremy passed him the silver lighter.
“No. That’s your crutch.” David traced the police emblem on the front. “Nice. Present?”
“Yeah. For Christmas. What do you need it for?”
“For this.” He angled the Zippo, allowing the sun to glint across it. The beam danced across Dennis’ face. When the boy looked up, David motioned for him and Marty Jr. to come to him.
“What are you up to that you need the boys?” Jeremy accepted his lighter back.
“You’ll see.” David started climbing the overgrown trail behind him that led to a group of trees whose branches reached over the river. A few brier bushes grabbed at his shorts. He skirted around another clump and looked over his shoulder.
Jeremy’s oath hung in the air as he ran into the briers. His brother must have forgotten about them. David circled the tree, peering up into its branches.
“You think it’s still there?”
David shrugged. “Has to be. That was a good rope I snitched from Mr. Daniels’ barn. Man, I remember he was mad when he found out.”
“I remember that Dad made us work to pay for it.” Jeremy pointed at a branch. “There it is.” The thick, yellow rope hung in loops around the huge branch.
A rustle from below produced a red-faced Marty Jr. and Dennis.
Marty squinted. “What’s up, Uncle David, Uncle Jeremy?”
Jeremy shook his head, still staring into the tree. “I don’t think it’ll hold your weight. It’s been years since it was used.”
“We’ll see. You game?” He narrowed his eyes at his brother. See if he was too cowardly to try.
Jeremy narrowed his own eyes, mouth set in a thin line. “Fine. But you first.”
David snorted. “Figures. Dennis, Marty, see that rope up there? Think one of you could shimmy up there and throw it down?”
They looked at each other, grinning, before Marty stepped forward. “I can.”
David gave him a leg up. The teen gripped a branch and, like a monkey, leapt from branch to branch until he reached the one with the rope.
Jeremy stood under it. “Yeah. Just unwrap it right there. Hold up. You got it tangled on the small limb there.” He turned to Dennis. “Is anyone looking?”
Dennis peered past the tall weeds and bushes. “No, sir. Coast is clear. This is so cool.”
David smacked his head. “You are sworn to secrecy. Only your granddad knows where this rope came from.”
Jeremy snorted. “And Mr. Daniels.”
“Don’t think he’ll be telling anyone unless you got a direct line to God.” David caught the rope as it dropped to the ground. “Hold up, Marty. Can you reach the tie-off?”
Marty scooted farther down the branch. “Yeah. Whatcha need?”
“See any marks or cuts?”
“No, sir. Looks fine to me.”
Jeremy looked over at David. “Think we can trust him?”
David smiled and looped the rope into a foothold. “We’ll see. Come on down, Marty!” He finished tying the rope as Marty dropped down from the overhead branch.
“Dad, Mom looks like she’s looking for you.” Dennis let the bush fall back into place.
“Go distract her. And don’t mention this to anyone.” Jeremy glanced at David. “Who’s the victim?”
“Victim?” Marty paused. Dennis looked back.
David stripped off his shirt and threw it at Dennis. “Hold on to this for me. And you see that piece of driftwood next to Darlene and Maggie?”
Marty smiled. “That long piece by Mom?”
“Yeah. See if you can get Poppy over there. I need a clear shot. Way too many briers up here now.”
Jeremy grinned. “Oh, you are asking for trouble. Maggie had explicit instructions that Poppy not go into the deep water, only along the edge. She can’t swim, David.”
“No worry. I won’t let go of her.” He winked at his brother as he stepped into the loop and lined up his path. “Sure you don’t want to go first?”
“No way.”
“Pansy.” Jeremy’s reply was lost as David jumped off the small ledge, yelling in his best imitation of Tarzan.
: : : : :
Maggie turned from Darlene as Poppy passed her in a rush. She narrowed her eyes. Those boys were up to something. Dennis and Marty Jr. had Poppy to stand by the bank. They glanced up at the trees and stepped back.
Poppy screwed up her face, but she didn’t move from her spot.
“What are they doing?” She tapped Darlene on the shoulder. “Is that David’s shirt that Dennis has?”
Darlene looked over at the boys and then at Poppy. “Oh, great. Sarah!” She took a step towards Poppy.
Maggie grabbed her arm. “What? What’s going on?”
A Tarzan yell penetrated the air. Everyone paused in their activities, except for the older ladies, as a bare-chested man swooped upon the gathering. Air swooshed as David flew past, scooping up Poppy with an outstretched arm.
Maggie gasped. She pressed her hands to her mouth.
Poppy’s scream echoed against the water as they soared overhead. Red pigtails flew out as the rope reached its zenith. David, with Poppy clinging to him, gracefully arced over the water, feet pointing down. His arm wrapped around the child, and they plummeted into the dark river.
Maggie’s breath slammed back into her chest as the rope came to rest against the bushes at the water’s edge. Dennis and Marty Jr. grabbed it and took off. Maggie rushed into the water. Its coldness enveloped her as she waded in waist deep.
Stupid man! Where were they?
In front of her, two forms popped up. David yelped and shook the water from his eyes. Poppy cried and laughed. She clung to him, her eyes wide. She spotted Maggie.
“Miss Maggie! Did you see me? That was so much fun. I want to do it again.”
Maggie waded further out. Water lapped at her chest. She clutched at her heart. “David James! You scared me to death doing that. And look at me. I got my clothes all wet now.”
David grinned and treaded towards her, Poppy clinging to his back. “Loosen up, Margaret Allison.”
She scowled. “Oh.” Infuriating man. “Poppy, you okay?”
“Oh, yes. It was so much fun.”
David stopped in front of her. He tweaked her nose with his fingers as Poppy wrapped her legs around his chest. “She’s fine. I wouldn’t let anything happen to her.” His arm grabbed at Poppy as she slid around until she dangled from his neck.
“I can’t believe you did that.” Maggie reached up. Her fingers brushed at a trickle of water by his brow. “When did you tie the rope there?”
“Long time ago. Jeremy and I use to come rope swinging.” His green eyes glinted as he looked over her head. “Uh oh, hold on. Here comes Jer now.”
Maggie turned as another yell echoed. Jeremy swooped down. He kicked out his feet. The rope snapped as it arced and fell into the water. Jeremy splashed down without the grace David had.
Within seconds, his head popped up, yelping. “Whoa! It’s freezing.”
David laughed. He cupped his hands around his mouth. “Pansy!”
Jeremy responded with a rude gesture.
“Jeremy Dean!” Sarah’s voice shot out, and Maggie laughed at the furious scowl on her cousin’s face. “You’re in front of the church, you idiot.”
Jeremy cast her an innocent look.
Dennis collected the rope from the bank. “You broke it, Dad.”
Jeremy smiled at his son and swam towards Maggie and David. “Well, I think we can safely say that Marty Jr. was wrong.”
“Apparently.”
Sarah’s voice yelled out to him. Jeremy sported a lop-sided grin. “Well, I’m being summoned. How much would it be worth to push her in?”
David smiled. “Priceless, but I dare you to do so.”
Jeremy shook his head. “I value my life too much.” Poppy’s squeal filled Maggie’s heart as he splashed Poppy once before he swam to the bank.
Such a joyful sound. She gasped as David’s hand latched onto her arm. Cold water engulfed her. She pushed against the muddy bottom and surfaced, only to find David treading towards the pier with Poppy on his back. Oh, she’d get him for that.
She struck out, gaining on his leisure pace. He laughed at her as she neared.
“Don’t do it. I’ve got Poppy.”
“Do it, Miss Maggie! Do it!”
David feigned an injured look. “Oh, little flower, you’re supposed to be my friend.”
Poppy giggled and splashed a handful of river water into his face. He sputtered. Maggie cast her own handful. “Hurry, Poppy. To me.”
Poppy jumped from his hold and into her arms. She sank a little from the weight, but quickly swam to the pier. David followed in her wake. When she grabbed the wooden planks of the pier, Poppy scampered up. Maggie started to follow, but her laughter weakened her. She managed to get a leg up on the deck.
Poppy bounced on her feet. “Oh, hurry, Miss Maggie! He’s here.”
She let out a yelp as David’s hands gripped her around the waist and threw her backwards into the water. Again dark, murky water surrounded her. She reached out. Fabric met her fingers, and she grabbed the hem of his shorts, tugging him under. Air bubbles escaped as she laughed underwater.
Poppy squealed as she surfaced. “He’s behind you!”
Maggie ducked back under and felt for the pier’s beams. She pulled herself along until she was under the wooden deck. When she broke the water’s surface, David was turning circles, looking for her.
“Where’d she go, Poppy?”
“I ain’t telling, Mr. David.”
“Ah, now, little flower. Didn’t I just give you an adventure?” He treaded the water and turned. His eyes locked onto hers. “Ah ha!”
Maggie squealed and swam away from the pier, heading further out into the river. The current pulled at her, tugging her slightly downstream. David grinned and broke through the water. She gasped. Goodness, he was fast. With as big of a leap as she could muster, she struck for the bank, trying to outdistance him.
His hand latched onto her shirt and pulled her underwater. She twirled and tried to kick up to the surface, but his arms wrapped around her, bringing her to him. They surfaced in a big splash.
He grinned at her. “Can’t get away from me, Maggie Goddard.”
Maggie gazed into his eyes, his arms holding her in the frigid water. Her chin trembled with the cold, but heat emanated between their bodies. His eyes softened. Oh, boy. He was way too charming for her health. “What if I don’t want to, David Boyette?”
He pushed a wet lock of hair away from her brow. “Really mean that?”
Poppy’s voice interrupted them. “Can I jump back in?”
“No!” Their voices shouted in unison.
They laughed and swam towards the little girl dangling her feet in the water. A small bit of disappointment flooded Maggie. Poppy had lousy timing, for sure.
When they reached the pier, David gave her a boost onto the deck and then hoisted himself up beside her. Poppy slid between them, her body shivering.
“By any chance, did you bring any towels?” Goosebumps pimpled the skin along his chest and arms.
“Yeah. In my truck. Good thing I had the foresight to bring clothes too.” She nudged Poppy. “Let’s go grab them, shall we?”
David lumbered to his feet and helped them stand. Maggie smiled at him as they walked down the pier. Her gaze fell to his stomach. She raised her brow at the tattoo.
“Sarah told me you had a tat. How long have you had that?”
He touched his stomach. His shoulders rose in a shrug. “Not long. A drunken dare.”
Maggie tore her eyes away from the muscled abs. “It’s nice. The tattoo, I mean.” Dennis saved her from further embarrassment as he ran past.
“Here’s your shirt, Uncle David. Can’t stay long. Fellas found a box turtle down the path.”
He took off but came back and grabbed Poppy’s hand. “Come on, Poppy. You got to see this.”
Maggie nodded at her. “Go on. I’ll bring you the towel.” Poppy took off with Dennis, her little feet flying across the muddy bank.
“You’re great with her, you know.”
She shrugged as they crossed the road to her truck. “I guess so.” The truck door creaked as she pulled it open. Two small beach towels lay on the seat. She handed David the pink one.
He opened it. “Princess?”
Maggie smiled. “It’s either that or Dora the Explorer.”
His face screwed up. “Not much of a choice, but beggars can’t be choosey.” He wrapped the towel over his shoulders, scrubbing at his head.
She dried her own hair and turned towards the stack of clothes. Her long blue tunic shirt was draped over the back of the seat. She grabbed it. “Think you can stay put while I go to the other side to change my shirt?”
David grinned. “That’s asking a lot of me. Tell you what. Make you a deal.”
Maggie cocked her head at him. “Yeah? And what would that be?”
Her breath stilled as he bent closer. His hand propped against the door frame, reminding her of the other night. His other hand traced the outline of her jaw. His finger gently touched her bottom lip. Oh, boy.
“I promise not to peek–mind you, I’ll be tempted–if, Maggie, you will go out with me Monday night.”
She dared to look up into his eyes. The green had become a living pool of light. Her own face reflected back at her from those depths. His head dipped closer. Maggie pressed her back against the truck. She wanted this, didn’t she? He kissed so well the other night. She would like another. Oh, wow. She was a female version of Oliver Twist. Please, may I have some more?
His lips barely touched Maggie’s when Sarah’s voice called out. David growled and pushed away.
Maggie heaved a sigh. Of relief or regret?
“Maggie, Poppy is looking for you. David, the men need your help with the tables. We’re trying to fit them closer together.” Sarah crossed the road to them.
David looked longingly at Maggie and then nodded. “I’ll talk to you later.”
She snagged his wrist. Heat from his body warred with the cool water that coated his arm and ran under her palm. He looked down at her fingers before lifting his eyes to hers. She smiled and rose up on tiptoes to kiss his cheek. “Six o’clock?”
His eyes sparkled. Oh, my, how bright they were. Gleaming emeralds. “Six.”
She watched as he crossed the road, a bounce to his steps. Ignoring Sarah’s questioning gaze, Maggie pulled an over shirt out of the cab for Poppy and shut the door. Oh, boy. She had a date Monday night.
: : : : :
Jeremy sucked a breath through clenched teeth as he shifted in his seat, waiting for Dennis to bring him some water. His damp shorts rubbed a raw spot against his inner thighs. He plucked at the hem of his shorts and shifted again in the lawn chair.
Cold water dribbled down his back. He glared at Dennis, who grinned down at him. “Give me that, goofball.” He took the water bottle from the teen’s hand. “You and Marty Jr. heading to the movies?”
“Yes, sir.” Dennis plunked down on the grass beside him. “We’re supposed to meet Angela and Mike there, but Mike backed out at the last moment.”
“So, it’s gonna be just Angela?”
Dennis squinted. “Well, no. She invited two of her friends with her. Marcy and Sasha.”
Jeremy raised his brow. “I thought Sasha was in reform.”
“She was. But she’s been going to counseling.” He placed a hand on Jeremy’s forearm. “We are only doing movies, Dad. And who knows, maybe I or Marty can make a difference in the girl’s life.”
Jeremy sipped at his bottle and gazed across the river. Few people were left. Most of the food was gone. He sighed. It was a great day, despite his embarrassing plunge from the rope. His gaze settled on the pier and the couple who sat with a little redhead between them.
Dennis’s gaze bored into him. He didn’t want to think about his son out with girls. Man, he wasn’t ready for this. It made him feel old.
“Dad?”
He took a deep breath. “Okay. No later than eleven. And I expect an update by nine.”
Dennis jumped up. “Taking the truck or Mom’s car?”
Jeremy smiled. “The car. Especially since she has the back seat full of boxes for Goodwill.”
Dennis grimaced. “I ain’t planning on doing anything, Dad.”
Jeremy handed him his set of car keys. “That’s the reason I’m letting you have the car. No room in case you decide to be stupid.”
His son rolled his eyes and, with a huff, stood and motioned to Marty Jr. “See ya, Dad. And thanks.”
“Nine!”
“Nine. In at eleven. Gotcha.”
Jeremy watched his son hightail it to the car with Marty Jr., who shouted reassurances over his shoulder to Marty Sr.
“Growing up too soon. Before long, it’ll be Sophie.” Sarah dropped into his lap. Her weight pressed his semi-wet shorts deeper into him. “I don’t think I’m ready for that.”
Jeremy nuzzled her neck. Sunshine and cinnamon flooded his senses. “I ain’t ready for Dennis to be out there. Lord knows what he’s up to when we allow him out.”
Sarah chuckled. “Same as you when you were that age?”
He bit back a groan and leaned his head back. “Oh, I hope not. Amazing that my dad never found out half of what I done.”
“Well, it just made you a better officer.” She leaned against him, pulling his arms tighter around her. “Did you notice that David hasn’t left Maggie’s side all afternoon?”
“Yeah.” His brother rose to his feet. Poppy followed him to the table, where they collected a plate full of sweets. Jeremy snickered. Maggie would have her hands full with a hyper child tonight.
“She’s in love with him.”
“I feel sorry for her.”
“Jeremy!” She smacked his hand. “Don’t be so callous. David deserves to be happy, and Maggie would be good for him.”
He frowned at his wife. Why did everyone in the family pamper and defend the man? “I don’t think he’s ready. In case you haven’t noticed, the man is hiding something.”
“He’s hiding pain.” Sarah wiggled around until she faced him. “He needs family and church.”
“He needs a butt-kicking.”
She rolled her eyes and hopped up. “You are so obstinate sometimes.”
A cold wind picked up and whipped her ponytail around her face. Jeremy stood and wrapped his arms around her, pressing his forehead to hers. Tonight was not a night to deal with Sarah’s ire. “Sorry, sweetie. The man just gets my back up. But I promise that I’ll be there for him.”
“Promise? Darlene and I know that something is wrong, well, according to your mom, anyway.”
“You’ve been talking to Mom about David?”
“And you.” Another blast of wind hit them. She looked up, holding her ponytail still. “That’s coming in fast.”
Jeremy peered up at the sky. Dark clouds, with a tint of green, rolled across the horizon. That wasn’t good. He pushed at Sarah. “Go and start packing the stuff up.”
She took off to the tables. He spotted Maggie herding Poppy to the tables. David stood on the edge of the pier, watching the clouds. Jeremy jogged to his brother.
The boards creaked under his weight. Water lapped against the banks, rising with each surge. The cold wind buffeted his body. He stood beside David.
“Bad?”
David grunted, staring into the sky. “Got your phone? Left mine in the truck.”
Jeremy pulled out his cell and handed it to him. While David dialed, Jeremy walked over to Sarah. “Call Dennis and tell him to cancel the movies. By the looks of this, it isn’t gonna be a quiet night.”
Sarah nodded. “Okay.” She turned to Sophie. “Go put those in the truck. Poppy, take the cloths and help Sophie.”
The girls hurried off, following Maggie as she lugged baskets up the trail for some of the church women. Jeremy turned back to his wife.
“Can you hitch a ride with Darlene or Maggie? I’m going to head to the station. If it is as bad as it seems like it will be, they’re going to call me in, anyway.”
“Jeremy!” David hurried to his side and handed him the phone back. “Thomas requested everybody to the station. National Weather Service has us under a tornado warning. Tunica was hit ten minutes ago. It’s heading this way.”
David flew up the trail, pausing long enough to drop a small peck on Maggie’s forehead as he passed her. Jeremy looked to Sarah. “You heard him. Call Mom and Dad, make sure they made it back from Memphis.”
“Jeremy, be careful, sweetie.”
He brushed his lips against hers. “I will. Love you.” Her prayers, he was sure, were already being sent upwards as he climbed the trail back to the road.
David’s ratty pick-up barreled past as he headed for his Ford truck. His phone buzzed.
“Thad?” He hopped onto the seat. “We being called in?”
“Just all of mid shift. Captain says this is going to be a bad night. How soon before you make it here?”
Jeremy cranked the truck and pulled away. “About fifteen minutes out.”
“See ya then.”
A heavy sigh escaped him. So much for a pleasant night. He fought his truck as a strong gust battered against it. The sky darkened. He craned his neck to look up at the sky. He should have gotten the truck with the moon roof.
Trees bowed as low as possible as the wind whipped down the highway. Veins popped along Jeremy’s arm as he fought to keep the truck on the highway.
He jumped as a rock slammed against his windshield. No, it wasn’t a rock. Hail. Marble-sized ice balls bounced against the hood and windshield. His heart raced as he shot a quiet prayer heavenward. He needed his family kept safe tonight.
: : : : :
David picked up the last piece of burnt metal from the road and cast it onto the truck’s flatbed. Rain pelted him and his turnouts. Black sooty rivers ran down his legs and onto the pavement. He waved to the chief.
“That’s the last.”
Thomas nodded and motioned to the wrecker. It puffed and lumbered away, carrying the warped metal hunk, formerly known as a Dodge Charger.
Thomas turned to David. “How’s the boys holding up?”
David pulled off his helmet. Rainwater was preferable to sweat. “They’re hanging in there. Storm’s letting up, so we’ll be able to rest for a little while. That is, if no other idiots decide to joyride in this mess.”
He followed Thomas past Engine One. The bumper invited him to sit down on its shiny, wet surface, but if he gave in, he wouldn’t have the energy to last the night.
“It’s not over yet. We have another wave heading our way. Vortex indications on radar, but no sightings.”
David dragged a hand across his eyes. “It isn’t tornados that worry me. The river’s currents are strong, and the water’s high enough to wash out some of the lower roads. Volunteer stations are working at clearing most of the debris from them, but they already had two of their trucks stall in the low dips.”
Thomas opened the door to his car, shrugging out of his jacket before falling into the seat. “Jackson still chief at District Eight?”
“Yeah. And Pete James is still at District Seven. They got most of the roads covered. Toby’s playing message bearer tonight.”
“Good. I’m heading over to Station Three–”
Dispatch broke in. “Station One, PD requesting rescue at Bokushi River.”
David took a deep breath. He needed strength to make it through this one. Thomas slammed the door to the car as David whirled around. He trotted to Engine One, yanking at his turnout jacket.
Toby called into the mike as he jerked open the door. “Engine One en route, dispatch. Advise type of rescue.”
David dropped into the captain’s seat and slung his turnout jacket into the jump seats, narrowly missing the rookie. He unbuckled his bunker pants and fought to slide them off. Between the sweat and the rain, his body was soaked clear through.
“Engine One, please be advised, one victim trapped in Bokushi River at Little Black Point. PD requesting water rescue.”
Toby grimaced. “Copy, dispatch. Engine One ETA three minutes.”
David wiggled his feet out of the boots. “Who’s on call for water rescue?”
“Besides you? Sam is the only one. And he’s at a barn fire on Dublin Road.”
Great. He turned to the rookie. “Chuck, when we get there, I want you to grab the PFDs from the side panel. You know what they are, right?”
Eyes wide, Chuck nodded. “Personal floatation devices.”
“Yeah. There’s a throw bag in there, also. Grab it.” He turned back around and flashed a smile at Toby. “At least I’m already soaked.”
Toby chuckled and turned the engine onto the country road. “Well, well. That’s a lot of cars for a trapped swimmer.” He pulled the engine to the side, behind the flashing blue strobes of the police cars. “What fool would venture to Little Black Point in this weather at this time of night?”
“Suicidal fool?” The engine lumbered to a stop. David threw open the door. His feet slipped against the slick running board as his hand missed the door handle. Pain stabbed his lower back as it met the metal. He grimaced. This night needed to end soon. He was not going to last much longer.
Chuck threw him the PFD. Toby came around with a heavy-looking bag. David nodded toward it. “Is that the rescue rope and stuff?”
“Yeah. You ready?”
No.
“Sure.” Toby passed him the harness.
He navigated the overgrown trail to the river’s edge and struggled to slip the harness over his shoulders. Wet grass slapped and tangled at his feet. Chuck appeared beside him.
“What do I do?”
David spared a glance at the rookie. “Help out Toby. I’ll need strong hands on the rope.”
A small smiled tugged at his mouth as the young man hurried ahead of them to the scene. Of the rookies who arrived, Chuck was by far the best. He was actually the fastest learner. If Toby wasn’t careful, Chuck would be vying for a driver-operator position.
Officers stood near the edge. He spotted Jeremy on his stomach leaning over the edge of the steep drop-off. Little Black Point, perfect for swimming in the deepest part of the river on a calm day. A death trap during a storm.
David shook his head. Job to do. Couldn’t let his tired mind drift away.
Toby reached over. “Hold still. The back clasp isn’t fastened.”
A harsh tug had the harness biting against his chest. He pulled at the front straps. “Latch the rope on.”
Toby snagged the end of the rope from Chuck, snapping the carabiner to the harness. He yanked it. “Good to go.”
Chuck handed him the throw bag. He slung the strap over his shoulder, settling the red bag under his arm.
David approached the edge and peered over. “What you got?”
Jeremy looked up, taking in his gear. “You do water rescue?”
“Two years now.” He fell to his hands and knees beside his brother. Below them, a small form fought against the current, hands gripping an outcropping of rock.
“It’s Franklin. He slipped. Managed to call 911 before he lost his phone.”
David nodded. “Toby! Going over. Got a good descent path.”
“Gotcha, man.”
He took a deep breath and lowered himself to his stomach. With slow movements, he pivoted until his legs hung over the edge. Inch by inch, he slid his legs off solid ground. Easy. “Toby, start lowering me down.”
Franklin’s voice broke through the rain that lashed against them. “I can’t hold on!”
David looked over his shoulder. Terror filled the teen’s eyes. “I’m coming, Franklin. I need you to hold on a little bit longer, okay.”
“I can’t!”
“You can, Frankie. Tell me about yourself. What grade are you in?” He dug his fingers into a muddy handhold. The edge gave way. His body slammed against the river wall.
Jeremy, eyes wide, snatched at him. “David!”
“I’m fine, I’m fine. Give me some slack!” He took another breath. His heart ricocheted in his chest. Man, he hated it when that happened. “Frankie? You still there?”
A weak reply answered. “Yes. I’m in ninth. Failed a year.”
David sought a foothold. His foot slipped. Another cascade of mud plopped into the raging river. “How are you doing now, Frankie?”
“Okay enough. Mainly B’s.”
“Hey. That’s good. I made mainly B’s. A few C’s too.” Another foot down. He looked over his shoulder at the teen. “I’ll tell you something, Frankie. You’re strong, man. You keep holding on to that rock, okay. I’ll be down in no time.”
A sudden yell penetrated the air. Franklin had lost his grip. The river swept his body down a few feet before slamming him against a muddy protrusion of river wall. Franklin’s hands clawed at it, his fingers digging into the mud.
“Toby! Slack!”
“David, don’t do it.” Jeremy’s terrified face watched from above. His hands clutched at the grass tufts along the edge.
The wind whipped against David. His clothes molded him in a wet cocoon. Franklin held on only a few feet downstream.
David tugged at the rope. “Toby!” Franklin couldn’t hold on much longer. “I can make it. Give me slack.”
Toby refused to release the rope. David spouted an oath. Fine time to obey protocol. He’d take care of that.
Jeremy’s voice issued orders. “Bring him up. Franklin’s too far away for him to reach. We’ll try down there.”
David ripped the red bag from his shoulder and pulled out the rope. His numb fingers fumbled, refusing to bend when needed. He latched the rope onto his harness. His body rose slowly to the top. Working quickly, he threaded the rope through his fingers until he found the carabiner at the end. He latched it to the rescue rope’s loop and unlatched the rescue rope from his harness. His hands strained to hold on.
Jeremy peered over the edge and cursed. David gave his brother one last look and pushed off the wall. Cold water grasped at him. He rolled, letting the current drag him down. The PFD brought him quickly to the surface, and he gasped in water and air.
He spotted the boy a few feet away. Franklin struggled to hold on, his fingers buried deep into the wall of clay mud.
David rode the current toward the teen. He grimaced as the water rammed him against the point. Jagged rocks bit into him. His hands latched onto Franklin, and he wrapped one arm around the boy’s chest and under his chin.
“Relax. I got you.” David fought against the pull of the current as it tried to drag him away from the wall. “Listen to my voice. I need you to grab my harness and hold on.”
Good thing that the boy had enough sense to listen. The teen grabbed the harness in a death grip. David looped extra rope around the boy and fastened it to the carabiner. Franklin gasped as a yank pulled them away from the wall. David kept one hand around the teen and treaded water with the other, struggling against the current. He had to stay as close as possible to the river’s edge.
The current grabbed at his body, tugging it downward. He raised his chin, gasping at the air. He wasn’t going to make it. The water was too fast.
The muddy wall greeted them again. He flattened against it, pinning Franklin between him and it. “Now, we have to help these guys a little. Start climbing. Dig your fingers into the mud.”
David had to give it the boy. Fatigue leeched into his own body. No telling how weary the teen was, but he obeyed. Foot by foot, the guys up top pulled them up. David dug his feet and hands into the wall.
Mud coated their bodies. Run-off from the ledge coursed over David’s face and into his eyes.
Suddenly, grass tickled his palm. Weeds cut into his skin.
Hands grabbed at the pair, pulling them away from the edge. David fell back onto the ground. Rain bombarded his face.
He coughed, and his chest rattled. Great. He rolled over and staggered to his feet.
Paramedics led Franklin to the ambulance. Officers circled around him, including Jeremy. David fumbled with the carabiners.
Toby reached forward and helped him. “That was risky, man. That rope wasn’t rated for that much weight.”
David shook his head. “Had to be done. Franklin wouldn’t have lasted much longer.” He shrugged out of the harness. It hit the ground with a thunk. Chuck collected the rope and equipment.
“You okay, man?”
“No.” He leaned heavily against Toby’s shoulder. “That was a river from hell. I didn’t think it was going to let me go.”
Toby slapped his back. “Come on. Let’s get you back to the station. You made it free and clear.”
He forced his weak legs to follow Toby through the tall grass. Lights from the vehicles blinded him. He held a hand to his face, blocking the bright lights. Voices shouted. Many giving directions, some. . . he paused. He blinked against the harsh glare.
A news van from Memphis parked near the police tape. They spouted off about a daring rescue of a drug ring informant. The tall, shapely news anchor listed off the names of the officers involved. She didn’t bother to tamp down her excitement. David scowled at the mention of Jeremy’s name.
He turned away from the spectacle. Newscasters. They rated up there with wedgies and moldy cheese.
Another cough racked his body. Not good. He reached Engine One and propped his hand against the grill as the cough tortured him. His body doubled over from the hacking. He waved off Toby’s concerned expression as he and Chuck carried the equipment back to its home in the side panel.
He spat phlegm onto the ground as the cough eased.
A tap against his shoulder brought his attention around.
Jeremy glared at him. “That was stupid. You could have been killed. First rule for us: personal safety first.”
David narrowed his eyes. Leave it to his brother to fuss about obeying rules. “I was fine. Attached another rope.”
“And it could have snapped. Stupid!” Jeremy growled and looked away. His mouth curled up into a snarl as he turned back around. “You don’t think, do you? You just do it.”
Another cough threatened to consume him as anger boiled, matching the heat that flooded his face. “You would have lost your precious informant if I hadn’t done that.”
“We had another spot to try.” Jeremy ran his hands over his face. “What if you had missed? What if the rope snapped?”
“It didn’t.” David shoved away from the grill. Jeremy needed to leave well enough alone. All he wanted at this moment was to finish his shift, go home, get a drink, and get some sleep. “Leave it alone, Jeremy. The boy’s safe, y’all get the info he has, and all is well with the world.”
The engine rumbled. Toby sat in the cab, waiting. David turned away from his brother.
A hand on his arm pushed him back around. “You don’t care about rules, do you? You never do. Don’t you realize that you could have been killed?”
David stared hard at his brother. Yeah, he could have died. Death came suddenly. What difference did it make if it came during a rescue or in his sleep? “So? Then you wouldn’t have to be bothered with me anymore.”
Jeremy pressed his lips into a thin line. “That’s not it, David. You have to stop taking so many risks.”
“Like you would know? You never risked anything in your life. I save people. Whether I know them or not.” David pointed at him. His body trembled. “You? If it meant breaking protocol, then you would just watch them die.”
Jeremy’s hand slammed against his chest, driving another lung rattling cough from him. The grill pressed against his sore back as Jeremy held him against the truck.
Spittle flew from Jeremy’s lips and hit him on the cheek. “I have never left a person to die! Never!”
David broke Jeremy’s hold. His fist connected with his brother’s lips. Jeremy staggered back. His gloved hand touched his mouth. Blood glinted darkly in the headlights.
“Tell that to Rebecca.” For once, David loved the rain. It hid the tears.
He turned his back on his brother and climbed into the truck. The door slam echoed in the quiet cab. Ignoring Toby and Chuck’s wide-eyed stares, he picked up the mike. “Dispatch, show Engine One returning to station.”
“Copy, Engine One. Time oh-two-hundred.”
He leaned his head against the seat. It didn’t feel like two in the morning. “Drive, Toby. And shut up.”
His heart thudded heavily against his ribs. His face and eyes burned. He turned up the heat in the cab as he shivered uncontrollably. Man, he needed a drink right now.