Chapter Three
Jack sat in his office and looked through files. He just wanted to catch up on things that had been going on. There were minor break-ins, car thefts, and some domestic violence but not much else, which was fine by him.
When he was a Marshal, he was constantly on the go. He never seemed to get a moment’s rest. After twenty-two years, he was done. He had loved the job, but he was ready to leave it.
Sam had done the same thing years ago, though he hadn’t stayed too long at the job. When he came back to Clifton, he ran for sheriff and won by a landslide. Jack knew Sam was happy with his decision and he hoped he would be too. It was nice being close to his family and friends again.
He hadn’t even made it to his sister’s wedding because he’d been on a case. Brenna had been disappointed but it couldn’t be helped. He felt bad about it but since he had to work, there was nothing he could do.
Jack heard the door open in the lobby, so he stood and walked toward the front. He grinned when he saw Brody Morgan enter. Brody walked toward him and shook his hand.
“Hey, Jack. Sam told me he hired you. It’s good to see you again.”
“You too. Did you have a nice vacation?”
“Yeah, we did.”
“How is Madilyn?”
“Beautiful as ever.”
“And the kids?”
Brody shook his head. “Rambunctious as hell.”
Jack laughed. “So, you need a few more, right?”
“I don’t think so.” Brody laughed. “Maybe it’s time you got married and had yourself some kids.”
“Don’t think I wouldn’t like to.”
“Plenty of beautiful women in the area.”
“I know. I met one recently. She just moved here from Alabama and opened a candle, soap, and bath salts place.”
“Oh, hell. Don’t tell Maddie. She loves candles.”
Jack laughed. “I’ll hold that over your head when I need something.”
Brody chuckled. “I bet you will. I’d better get to my office. Is Sam out?”
“Yeah, he’s meeting with the mayor over something.”
Brody nodded. “I bet it’s about Copper Ridge. Every year around this time, Sam and Gray try to talk the mayor into widening that road. We have way too many people hurt or killed on it.”
“I can understand that. It’s always been called, dead man’s curve.” Jack sighed. “I remember when Brenna called me to tell me about Kaylee Dillon. I couldn’t imagine what Trick went through. He was head over heels in love with Kaylee.”
“Devastated would be an understatement.”
“I bet. But I heard he’s happy now.”
Brody grinned. “Rayna is good for him and Harlee. Well, I’d better get some work done before Sam comes back.”
Jack laughed. “Or at least look like you’re doing something.”
“No shit. He might be a good friend, but when he’s your boss, he can be tough. We’ll grab lunch one day.” Brody walked to his office.
Jack nodded but knew Brody didn’t see him. They’d get together one day and have lunch. The only deputy he didn’t know was Nevada Shelton. He’d been hired after quitting MDOL. Jack didn’t know the specifics behind it, but Sam hired him, so he had to be a good man.
He was surprised that Logan Townson was a deputy though. He’d worked for the FBI for years, but when he arrested the father of the love of his life, Logan left town and didn’t return for years. Why he quit the FBI, Jack had no idea but it could have been for the same reason Jack left the Marshals. One day, he’d talk with Logan about it. Jack did know that Logan was with Dixie McCarthy again and happy, so it had worked out for them and Jack was happy for his friends.
As he sat there, he thought back to his last relationship, with Brenda. At first, he missed her like hell, but she didn’t want kids and they argued about it constantly. It got to the point that he was just tired of arguing over it. He wanted kids, she didn’t and it ended their relationship.
He knew a lot of people didn’t want kids, but that was something that sometimes either worked or it didn’t. He even suggested adopting if it was because the thought of giving birth scared her, but that wasn’t it at all. She didn’t want anything to do with kids, which was her right, but to him, they should have talked about it before they got serious. The fact that she put it on him that she didn’t want them was the part that got him. She said since he was never home, she’d be raising any kids they had, alone, and she had no desire to do that.
Jack hoped to fall in love, get married, and have kids one day, but it needed to happen soon. He wasn’t getting any younger.
****
Randi was behind the counter assisting a customer when the door swung open, admitting a woman with dark auburn hair. The newcomer offered a smile and walked further into the shop.
“I’ll be with you in just a moment,” Randi said.
“Take your time. I’m not in any rush,” the woman replied with a smile.
After a few minutes, the customer left, carrying a shopping bag filled with several candles, bath salts, and soaps. Randi then approached the new visitor.
“Hello, I’m Randi Guthrie, the owner of the shop. May I help you find something?”
The woman turned around with a smile that highlighted her striking features—dark red hair and light green eyes.
“Hi, I’m Vivian Beckett. A friend told me about this place. I adore bath salts, and this shop smells incredible.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Beckett,” Randi said as she shook her hand.
“It’s Mrs., but please, call me Vivian.”
“Thank you, I will. Are you looking for any particular scent?”
“I really like lavender, jasmine, sandalwood, and vanilla scents.”
“They create a wonderful aroma when mixed correctly. I’m not sure I have that exact blend right now. If you can give me a minute, I’ll check in the back. Otherwise, I can always prepare it for you.”
“You make all of these products yourself?” Vivian inquired.
“Yes, I do. I can create any scent combination you desire.”
“Not just for the bath salts?”
“Everything I offer—soap, bath salts and candles.”
“Oh dear, I probably shouldn’t have come in here.” Vivian chuckled.
Randi laughed. “Let me just check the back; it won’t take long.”
“Alright, I’ll look around.”
Randi nodded and headed to the storage room in the back. After a quick search, she discovered that she only had vanilla and jasmine on hand. Grabbing a jar, she returned to the front.
“Vivian? I have only vanilla and jasmine available, but I can blend them for you. You could pick it up next week.”
“I’d love that, but I’ll take that one for now. I’ll probably need my husband to pick it up. With school in now, I doubt I’ll be free after class.”
“What grade do you teach?”
“First.”
“I’m sure they’re absolutely adorable at that age.”
“They are, and very eager to learn.”
“I bet they are. I’ll have it ready for when your husband comes by. Besides the bath salts, is there anything else you need?”
“I’d like two candles and two jars of the bath salts. Should I pay now?”
“Oh, no need. Your husband can handle the payment when he picks it up—unless you’d prefer to pay now.”
“I’ll have Grayson take care of it.” Vivian grinned. “I’ll just get this one for now.”
Randi smiled. “Alright then. I’ll have everything ready by next Monday. I do have a lot to prepare, so I’ll include that in the schedule.”
“Are you working alone?”
Randi sighed. “Yes, for now. I’ll need to hire some help, but I’m planning to wait until after Christmas since tourist season is almost over.”
“That will give you time to find someone then,” Vivian said with a smile as she handed Randi her credit card. Randi swiped it and then returned it to her. “Have a great day, Randi. I’m sure I’ll see you again soon. Bye for now.”
“Bye,” Randi replied as she watched Vivian step outside and stride down the sidewalk.
Every person she’d met in town had been kind; it felt like this place welcomed everyone. As she went behind the counter, her thoughts drifted to Jack—wondering what he was up to and when he would finally take her to dinner.
“Maybe he changed his mind,” she murmured as the door swung open to admit more customers. She decided to set aside thoughts of Jack for the moment. “Yeah, right.”
While helping a customer, the bell chimed to announce another arrival. Randi glanced over and saw Jack entering. A smile spread across her face as he held the door open for two women leaving, both of whom returned his smile while he touched the brim of his hat.
Jack strolled around the store, and Randi hoped he was there to see her—waiting for the perfect moment to start a conversation once she finished assisting her customer.
After ringing up an order, she carefully placed the items in a bag and handed it to the customer.
“Thank you so much. I hope you come back,” Randi said.
The customer laughed and replied, “You won’t be able to keep me away. I can’t wait to try these.”
Randi smiled warmly. “I look forward to seeing you again.”
Once the woman left, Randi noticed Jack walking toward her. As she glanced around, she saw several women in the shop eyeing him—and who could blame them? Jack was a handsome man. Her eyes moved appreciatively over his khaki shirt and badge, down to his belt where a holster with a gun was visible. She quickly lowered her eyes with an almost exasperated groan; he certainly filled out his jeans quite impressively. Then, her gaze traveled down his long legs to land on his well-worn, distressed cowboy boots.
Looking up again, she met his grinning eyes and beautiful smile.
“Hi, Jack.”
“Randi, I wanted to see if you still want to go out for dinner,” he said.
“Yes, I’d love to.”
“Great. How about Saturday night? We could try The Hartland.”
“The Hartland?” she asked, frowning slightly.
“Yes, it’s a nice restaurant in Hartland with fantastic food. I’ve been there a few times.”
“That sounds great.”
“I’ll pick you up at six, if I can get a reservation. If not, we could always go to the diner instead.”
“Is the restaurant fancy?”
“In some ways yes, but also no. It’s reservation-only, and while some dress up, others come in jeans or casual clothes.” Jack shrugged. “It’s entirely up to you.”
“Alright. Let me know if you can get us in.”
“I’ll call them once I leave and let you know.”
“Great. I’ll be waiting.”
“Anxiously, I hope,” Jack said with a smile.
Randi laughed. “I think I’ll keep that to myself.”
Jack fixed his gaze on her until she felt a warm flush on her cheeks.
“I’m sorry—I don’t mean to stare, but you have such a beautiful smile.” When she laughed, he frowned slightly. “What?”
“I was just thinking the same thing about you,” she said.
Jack laughed. “Great minds, huh?”
She opened her mouth to reply when the bell rang again. Glancing over, she saw a group of women entering before looking back at Jack.
“I’m sorry, I need to help the customers,” she explained.
“I understand. I’ll text or call you about Saturday night soon,” Jack replied.
“Alright then. Have a good day, Jack.”
“You too.” He nodded before heading out the door.
Watching him cross the street and stroll along the sidewalk, Randi let out a quiet sigh. She felt a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation about their upcoming date, quietly wishing the week would pass quickly.
After closing her shop for the day, she climbed the stairs, unlocked her apartment door, and stepped inside. She was eagerly anticipating a long, hot bath. Installing a jacuzzi had been one of her best decisions.
After soaking, she emerged feeling rejuvenated. She slipped into a pair of sweatpants and a T-shirt, then made her way barefoot to the kitchen.
She opened her freezer, took out a microwave dinner, and prepared it. Having skipped lunch, she was famished. Once the food was ready, she carried it to the sofa, turned on the TV, and settled in to watch a comedy while eating. Yet, thoughts of Jack Lawrence kept reappearing in her mind. The excitement of going out with him was undeniable.
It wasn’t that she hadn’t dated since her last relationship, it was the idea of spending time with Jack. Not only was he handsome, but his manners were impeccable, something her grandparents had always instilled in her, so she admired anyone who showed respect toward others.
Randi absently nibbled her lower lip as she pondered what to wear. Having not met many women her age yet to ask for advice, she considered stopping by Paige’s, the lingerie shop next door, tomorrow. The store had sent her a basket of plants as a welcome gift, and she intended to thank them in person. She hoped to get to know the women working there and maybe even make a few friends. Though an alley separated the two buildings, they were close enough for her to easily drop by and say hello.
The next morning, she entered her shop, switched on the lights, and set a few candles on warmers. They were selling out so fast that she knew she’d need to make more soon. She had never imagined her shop would become this successful, likely boosted by the influx of tourists in town. Randi didn’t care who bought her items as long as they sold.
By noon, she began reconsidering her plan to delay hiring until spring. With August seeming nonstop busy, extra help was becoming essential. She was sure she’d be busy at Christmas too.
During a small break, she placed a help-wanted sign in the window and posted an online ad with her email for responses. She realized she wouldn’t be able to keep answering her phone all day long and hoped the responses would come in soon; otherwise, she’d be completely overwhelmed.
****
“Sam?” Jack called as he entered Sam’s office and found him on the phone. “I’ll come back later.”
“No, take a seat, Jack. I’ll be with you in a minute. Tessa? I’ll see you at home. Maybe I can leave early today.” Jack watched as Sam smiled broadly. “Well, that sure makes me want to head home sooner. Have a great day. Love you.” Sam set his phone down on his desk, leaned back in his chair with arms crossed, and looked at Jack. “What’s going on?”
“Do you have the number for The Hartland?”
“Yeah.” Sam retrieved his phone and scrolled through his contacts. Once he found it, he recited the number to Jack, who quickly entered it into his own phone.
“I need to reserve a table for Saturday.”
“Good luck with that. You might have to call Grant.”
“Yeah, I figured I was cutting it close. Do you have his number?”
Sam nodded and provided the number before looking up at Jack.
“Do you have a date?” he asked.
Jack grinned. “Yes. I’m taking the owner of the new shop, Randi’s Scented Haven, to dinner.”
“Tessa mentioned she wants to go there; she loves candles.”
“Randi makes them herself. It smells amazing in there,” Jack said with a chuckle.
Sam grinned. “I haven’t even had a chance to welcome her to Clifton. I should do that today, maybe pick up a candle or two for Tessa.”
“You really should. Anyway, I’m going to make my rounds. I’ll see you later.”
“All right. Be careful out there.”
“Yes, sir.”
Jack left the office and headed for the door. Before he could reach it, the door opened, and he saw a man stepping in, and by his khaki shirt and the badge pinned on it, it had to be Nevada Shelton, the only deputy Jack hadn’t met.
“Nevada Shelton?” Jack asked.
“Jack Lawrence?” Nevada extended his hand. “Nice to finally meet you.”
“Likewise. I think we just missed each other when I first arrived.”
Nevada grinned. “No doubt about that. I took the day off when you started. It’s good to finally meet you.”
“You too. I’m heading out now, so we’ll catch up later. Have a good day.”
“You too, Jack.” Nevada made his way toward Sam’s office while Jack walked toward the elevator.
Driving down Main Street, Jack passed by Randi’s shop and smiled at the sight of so many people coming and going. He even noticed a “Help Wanted” sign in the window, which made him chuckle. It seemed like she’d need to hire staff sooner rather than later. Driving out Copper Ridge, he shook his head at the lousy condition of the road, it was still terrible, and he figured the county should have fixed it by now. He was sure Sam wasn’t pleased about that.
Deciding to stop by Grant’s place instead of calling him, Jack thought it would be nice to see his old friend again. He slowed his SUV cruiser as he pulled into the driveway, knowing that Grant had taken over his father’s ranch after retiring from singing.
Pulling up to the house, Jack smiled at its unchanged appearance, the same one he remembered from childhood when they used to hang out together.
He parked the car, stepped out, and walked up the steps to knock on the door. The door opened to reveal a striking redheaded woman who looked at him expectantly.
“Hi, may I help you?” she asked.
Jack removed his hat. “Yes, ma’am. Is Grant available?”
“Is he expecting you?”
“No, ma’am. We used to run around together, and now that I’m back in town I wanted to drop by. I can come by another time if it’s not convenient.”
“No, please come in. He’s in his office; I’ll fetch him for you.”
“Would you mind if I just go there? I’d like to surprise him.” Jack grinned.
The woman chuckled. “Of course. I’m Jessa, his wife.”
Jack extended his hand. “Nice to meet you, Jessa. I’m Jack Lawrence.”
“Pleasure to meet you. Follow me.” She guided him through the kitchen, dining room, and living room. “His office is the last door on the left. Would you like something to drink?”
“No, thanks. I need to return to work, but I wanted to speak with Grant. I’m hoping he can get me a reservation at the restaurant on Saturday evening at six.”
“I can handle that for you. For how many?”
“Two.”
“Okay. Go ahead on back. He’ll be thrilled to see you.”
“Thank you.” Jack proceeded down the hallway and paused at the office. He knocked on the doorframe. When Grant saw him, his eyes widened, and a broad smile appeared on his face.
“Jack! What a surprise. Come in.” Grant stood up, came around the desk, shook his hand, then hugged him.
“Damn, still as ugly as ever, Hunter.” Jack chuckled. “It’s great to see you, Grant.” Jack slapped him on the back.
“Same to you, Lawrence. You’re working as a deputy now?”
“Yeah, I needed a change from the Marshals. I loved it, but I was never home.”
“I completely get that. Have a seat.” Grant returned to his desk and sat down.
“I’m sure you do understand. How’s everything? By the way, your wife is beautiful. Sorry I missed the wedding.” Jack shook his head as he sat down. “I’ve missed a few friends’ weddings.”
“I was hoping you’d come, but I understood.”
“I was going to ask if you could get me into the restaurant on Saturday evening, but Jessa said she’d handle it.”
Grant chuckled. “She’s taken charge of the place.”
“That gives you more time to focus on other things. How’s the ranch doing?”
“I’m still growing feed for Ash Beckett, just like my dad did. I still keep horses, and still writing songs, so I stay busy.”
“Do you miss it?”
“Not at all. Everyone said I would, but I don’t. I enjoy being settled in one place. That’s why I understand your decision to leave the Marshals.”
“Yeah, it can wear on you. Don’t get me wrong, it was great for a time, but it strained my relationship, and by the time I realized that, it was too late.”
“I get that. I burned out from all the traveling. From one city one night to another the next. It would get to where I’d forget what city I was in. I’m better off staying here and writing songs. I still love working with the horses and the men working here are great. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
“I’m hoping to get to that point. Being a deputy in this town is a lot slower but I love it.” Jack grinned.
“I’m glad I came home. Plus, I met Jessa,” Grant said with a grin.
Jack laughed. “Well, that was worth it, right?”
“Definitely.”
Jack got up and shook Grant’s hand again.
“I need to get back to work. I’ll see you soon, Grant.”
“Great. I’ll walk you out.” Grant strode around the desk and the men walked from the room to head for the kitchen.
Jack saw Jessa at the sink, she turned and smiled at them.
“I was able to get you in at six, Jack.”
“Thank you. I appreciate it.”
“I knew she’d be able to,” Grant said.
Jessa walked toward Grant, put her arms around his waist and grinned.
“I’m glad I could do it for you.” She tilted her head. “So, do you have a date?”
Jack looked at Grant to see him trying not to grin, then he looked at Jessa.
“As a matter of fact, I do. I just met her. She opened a soap, bath salts, and candle shop. It’s called Randi’s Scented Haven.”
“Oh, I will definitely go in there. I just love bath salts.”
“She makes all of it herself.” Jack grinned.
“Wow. I might have to make a trip in there tomorrow.”
“Thanks a lot, Jack,” Grant teased.
Jack laughed. “Like you’d tell her not to go.”
Jessa and Grant laughed.
“Like she’d listen if I did.” Grant kissed Jessa’s head. “She can get anything she wants.”
“He spoils me,” Jessa said.
“As he should. I’d better get back out there. Jessa, thank you again. Grant, we’ll definitely get together one day.”
“That sounds good. Anytime is fine.”
“Alright, Grant. I’ll see you both soon.” Jack opened the door, and stepped onto the porch. As he walked down the steps, he glanced over to the barn and grinned when he saw another friend walking toward him.
“Jack?” How are you?” Landry Yates asked him as he shook his hand.
“I’m great, Landry. How’s it going?”
“Great. I’m glad I got to see you. I’m heading home.”
“How’s Kay?” Jack grinned.
“Wonderful. Stop by sometime.”
“I will. Talk to you soon, Landry. Tell Kay, I said hello.” Jack climbed into the SUV cruiser, then drove out toward the road.