Chapter Eight
Maggie steered her car along the winding road back to town, her eyes sharply scanning every shadow for any signs of trouble. The weight of her tension was almost physical, she knew Frederick would soon be on the lookout for her. There was an urgent need to speak with Vanna, to ensure that her friend felt safe and comfortable enough to walk back to her vehicle in the looming darkness.
Even though the thought of putting anyone in danger troubled her, the option of wandering the alley alone sent a shiver down her spine. Frederick’s reputation for ruthlessness was never far from her mind. As the scenery flew by, Maggie considered making a quick stop at Vanna and Grady’s place. She didn’t want to wait until Monday to break the news; the information was too crucial to be sprung unexpectedly. With her decision set, she navigated her way to the cozy cabin on the Coleman ranch, where Grady and Vanna resided.
Pulling up to the rustic cabin, she smiled thinking about how she spent many days riding on horseback alongside Vanna. She smiled as she thought back to Vanna telling her she used to be afraid to ride, but Grady taught her and now she loved it. Maggie parked the car and stepped out. The cool air enveloped her as she approached the porch. Just then, the sound of a door broke the quiet, and she couldn’t help but smile when Vanna appeared.
“Maggie! What a wonderful surprise. Come in,” Vanna greeted, stepping onto the porch.
“Do you have some time to talk?” Maggie asked, her voice carrying an undercurrent of worry.
“Of course,” replied Vanna warmly. “Grady is working today, so I have a little extra time on my hands.”
Nodding, Maggie followed her friend inside. The interior of the cabin exuded a homey charm, much like Rafe’s place, with soft lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. The subtle aroma of lavender intertwined with vanilla filled the space, instantly easing some of Maggie’s tension.
“It smells absolutely wonderful in here,” Maggie remarked, her face lighting up at the comforting scent.
Vanna chuckled. “That’s one of Randi’s candles. I can’t seem to stay out of her shop. It’s irresistible.”
Maggie laughed softly. “I feel the same way. Everything she makes has such a soothing touch.”
“Would you like something to drink?” Vanna offered.
“No, thank you,” Maggie replied gently.
“Alright then, let’s settle in the living room,” Vanna suggested.
They moved into the living room and sank into a plush sofa; the soft fabric inviting them to pause and relax. Vanna’s eyes, warm and inquisitive, searched Maggie’s face. “What’s on your mind, Maggie?”
Taking a deep breath, Maggie launched into her account of the unsettling situation with Frederick, sparing no detail. Her voice trembled with both urgency and fear as she laid everything bare. When she finally paused, an expectant silence filled the room. Vanna sat quietly, absorbing every word before asking in a calm, deliberate tone, “What do you need from me?”
“All I ask is that when we close for the day, will you walk with me around the back,” Maggie said, her voice soft but resolute.
“Oh, of course. I’ll start parking there. We could use the delivery entrance to go out. The only reason I don’t use it when I’d park back there is because I like to walk a little,” Vanna immediately replied, her concern evident. “I wouldn’t want you to face this alone. With darkness soon falling earlier, it’s too dangerous to be out there by yourself. I can’t believe they’re letting him roam free.” She shook her head in disbelief.
“Luke mentioned he must have a first-rate attorney. A real expert who can maneuver through the judicial labyrinth.”
“Exactly,” Vanna agreed grimly. “He stole horses. Rustling is a felony, yet here he is, free as a bird, and not only that, but he was released after being charged with domestic violence. I just hate that it puts you in harm’s way.”
“As long as I’m not alone, I should be alright. Rafe told me I could stay with him,” Maggie murmured, her voice tinged with cautious optimism. The room’s warm lamplight cast gentle shadows around her as she sat, her worry evident in the slight tremor of her hands.
Vanna’s eyes widened in surprise. “And you turned that hot man down?” she asked, her tone a mix of disbelief and playful teasing.
Maggie exhaled slowly, her eyes drifting downwards as if searching for an answer in the patterns of the sofa. “I don’t want to bother him. He absolutely despises Frederick, and I can’t stand the idea of him, or Fred becoming one of Frederick’s next targets,” she explained, a sigh escaping her as the weight of her concern filled the room. “Maybe I’m overreacting, but I know how dangerous Frederick can be. I’d never want Rafe or Fred to suffer because of my presence.”
Vanna leaned forward, her brow furrowing in genuine worry as she asked, “I understand that, but what are you planning to do? Are you just going to hide out in your apartment and the shop?”
Shaking her head firmly, Maggie’s expression softened with resolve. “No, I can’t do that. I believe that as long as it’s still tourist season and the streets are bustling, he won’t have the chance to come after me.”
“Tourist season ends in a little over a month, Maggie. What happens then?” Vanna pressed, her concern echoing in the quiet pause of the conversation.
“I don’t know, Vanna,” Maggie admitted, her voice trailing off as she wrestled with the looming unknown.
Vanna sighed, her tone gentle yet firm. “I think that’s something you need to give some thought to.”
A quiet moment passed before Maggie added, “Rafe asked me the same thing,” her voice heavy with resignation.
“He’s worried about you.”
“I know,” Maggie replied, her tone barely a whisper, as if the mere admission carried a weight too heavy to bear aloud.
Just then, the opening of the back door echoed through the house. Maggie’s attention shifted as she watched Vanna’s face light up with a warm smile. Rising, Vanna walked toward the doorway where Grady soon appeared.
“Hi, Maggie,” Grady greeted, his voice rich and friendly as he leaned forward to plant a quick, affectionate kiss on Vanna’s lips. “Hi, darlin’,” he added.
“Hi, Grady. I guess I should be going,” Maggie said.
“Don’t go on my account. I need to grab a shower,” Grady joked.
“Yes, you do. You stink, Grady Henderson,” Vanna teased, her laughter bubbling out.
“Well, if you were working around cattle all day, you wouldn’t smell good either,” Grady retorted.
“I suppose,” Vanna chuckled.
“I’m going to head out now. Vanna? Thank you. I’ll see you Monday.” Maggie smiled.
“Alright. Be careful,” Vanna said, her voice soft with concern.
“I will. Bye, you two,” Maggie said quietly, leaving the warmth of the house. She stepped outside into the crisp air, climbed into her vehicle, and drove toward her apartment. Yet, as she parked, her gaze fell upon the apartment steps, and a shiver of uneasiness brushed over her. The idea of climbing those steps alone filled her with subtle dread.
Drawing a deep, steadying breath, Maggie opened the vehicle door and stepped out. Her shoes clicked against the metal as she ran up the steps, her heart pounding in unison with her anxious thoughts. With a quick flick of her fob, she locked her vehicle before entering her apartment, the door clicking shut behind her as if sealing her inside a world of uncertain refuge.
Moments later, as she sank onto the sofa and attempted to distract herself with the flicker of the television, the sudden vibration of her phone jolted her attention. She fished the device from her pocket and saw a text from Rafe.
Do you still want to go out tonight?
Yes.
Okay. I’ll pick you up around seven. Pack a bag. You’re staying with me.
Are you asking me or telling me?
I’m telling you. Either that, or I’m staying with you. It has nothing to do with Junior. I want to be with you.
A smile tugged at Maggie’s lips as she quickly typed back, I love it when you take control.
I know. I’ll see you later.
I’ll be waiting.
Setting the phone down carefully, Maggie reached for the remote and turned the channels on the TV. However, her focus proved evasive; her mind kept drifting back to the ominous notion that Frederick was out there, weaving his dangerous ways. She couldn’t shake the conviction that he was either already on his way to Clifton or had stealthily arrived already, and that thought made her pulse quicken with both fear and dread.
****
At precisely seven o’clock, Rafe maneuvered his truck to a halt at the base of the stairs. The engine’s rumble faded as he turned it off, and climbed out, the door closing with a solid thud. He ascended the steps with a sense of unease, troubled by the thought of her being by herself, though he felt helpless to change the situation. Forcing her to stay with him was out of the question.
Knocking firmly on the door, he waited, and as it swung open, a frown etched onto his face.
“Did you check who it was before you opened the door?” he asked, his voice tinged with concern.
“Of course, I did. For God’s sake, Rafe, I’m not stupid,” she replied, a hint of exasperation in her tone.
“I know. I’m sorry. It’s just that the idea of you here alone doesn’t sit well with me. I trust that prick about as far as I can throw him,” Rafe admitted, his brow furrowing deeper.
“I shouldn’t have snapped at you. I’m sorry. Come inside,” she said gently, opening the door wider to welcome him.
Rafe removed his hat, pausing to wipe his boots on the mat before stepping into the apartment.
“I should have just grabbed us something to eat,” he remarked, his voice carrying a note of frustration.
“I am not going to hide,” she declared, her resolve evident in the set of her jaw.
“Well, you should. We both know what he’s capable of. Why do you have to be so fucking stubborn about it?” Rafe retorted, his eyes searching hers for understanding.
“He won’t dare bother me around other people.”
“Maybe not, but he can still track you. He could follow you wherever you go,” Rafe countered, his voice laced with urgency.
“I’m scared enough, Rafe. I don’t need a reminder of what he could do,” she said softly, her eyes reflecting a deep-seated fear.
“I don’t think you are,” Rafe replied, skepticism etched in his voice.
“You don’t think I’m scared?” she challenged, a tremor in her voice.
“I don’t know. I really don’t, Maggie, but you damn well should be,” Rafe insisted, his voice tense with worry.
“Trust me, I am. No one truly understands what he’s like, except me. We both know what he’s capable of. I don’t want you or Fred getting hurt because of me.”
“Better me than you,” Rafe shot back, his voice edged with defiance.
“No. I’d die if something happened to you or Fred because of me. If he sees us together, it’ll set him off. He always accused me of wanting to sleep with you, and if he found out, he’d kill us both. His jealousy of you is dangerous.” She moved closer, enveloping him in her embrace, resting her face against his solid chest. “I won’t let you or Fred get hurt trying to protect me.”
“That’s too bad, Maggie. I’m going to protect you any way I can,” Rafe vowed, his tone resolute as he held her tightly.
“I just hope he isn’t here yet and finds out where I work and live.”
“I talked to Luke earlier. He said Junior was still in Butte, so we don’t have to worry yet. Let’s go eat at the diner, then come back here so you can pack a bag.”
Maggie smiled. “I already did.”
Rafe smirked. “And you weren’t going to tell me yet, were you?”
“Nope. I thought I’d let you stew a while.”
Rafe shook his head. “Women.”
Maggie wrapped her arms around his neck and gazed into his eyes.
“Men.”
Rafe chuckled. “But we go so well together.”
“Yes, we do. Let me get my bag, and that way, we can just leave from the diner.”
“Alright.” He waited while she walked to her bed, picked up a small overnight case, then returned to him. “Get a jacket. It’s chilly.”
“Okay.” She set the bag down, pulled on her light jacket, then picked the bag back up, but Rafe took it from her. He opened the door, waited for her to turn the porchlight on, pulled the door closed and locked it, then led her down the stairs to his truck.
On the way to the diner, he heard her sigh. “I wish you didn’t have to worry about this, Maggie.”
“Me too.”
“Did you tell Fred all of it?”
“Yes,” she whispered. “He cried.”
“It doesn’t surprise me. It has to be hard to find out what kind of man your son truly is, but on a brighter note, he’s going out again tonight.” Rafe grinned.
“I’m glad he found someone. He’s such a wonderful man.”
“Yeah, he is. I’d like to see him find someone too.”
Rafe pulled into the parking lot of the diner and after parking, they both walked to the door and entered. It wasn’t very full, so they found a booth and sat down. Connie made her way to them, took their orders, then gave them their drinks.
Rafe watched as the door opened and grinned. “Speak of the devil and he appears.”
“What?” Maggie frowned at him.
“Fred just came in with his date.”
Maggie gasped, and looked over the back of the booth, then at Rafe.
“She’s very pretty.”
“Yes, she is.”
“Has he seen you?”
Rafe chuckled. “Not yet. Can’t wait, though.”
Maggie laughed. “I can’t wait, either.”
“Oh, he just saw me.” Rafe tried not to grin. “He’s heading this way, but the look on his face was priceless.”
“Hey, Rafe. Maggie, honey, are you okay?”
“Hi, Fred. I am for now. What are you doing here?” Maggie asked, making Rafe snort then cough to cover it.
“I, uh, I’m having dinner with a friend. This is Mary Danson. Mary, this is Maggie Lancaster and Rafe Marshall. Maggie was married to my son, but I still consider her my daughter-in-law, and Rafe is my ranch manager,” Fred introduced them.
Rafe slid from the booth and shook her hand. “Ma’am, it’s nice to meet you.”
“You, too.” Mary said, then looked at Maggie. “It’s nice to meet you. Fred talks about both of you.” She smiled.
“I hope it’s all good,” Maggie said with a laugh.
“Yes, it is.”
“Fred? Would you like to join us?” Rafe asked.
“Oh, no, son. We’re not going to be long. We’re going to the movies after we leave here.” Fred grinned.
“Alright. Well, I hope you both have a good evening.”
“You too.” Fred looked at Rafe. “Have you talked her into staying with you?”
Rafe smirked. “No. She’s stubborn.”
“Pfft…” Maggie shook her head.
Fred and Mary laughed, then after saying goodbye, walked to their table, and Rafe slid back into the booth.
“She seems very nice,” Maggie said.
“Yes, she does. I’m happy for Fred.” Rafe nodded.
“Me too. I hope it works out for them.” Maggie picked up her drink and took a sip.
Connie brought their meals to them and looked at Rafe.
“Is Fred dating someone now?”
“He is.”
Connie laughed; her voice laced with playful mischief. “Good for him. You two enjoy your evening,” she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Rafe returned her smile. “We will, Connie. Thank you,” he replied.
Connie smiled and walked off to wait on another patron.
“I hope we do.”
“What? Enjoy our evening? I’m sure we will.”
Maggie smiled as she picked up her burger.
“Have you decided to race yet?” she asked, her tone both encouraging and teasing.
“No,” Rafe admitted, a hint of exasperation in his voice. “Nate keeps after me about it, but I haven’t made up my mind.”
Maggie’s eyes lit up as she recalled past events. “I loved watching you last year,” she declared with genuine fondness.
“Oh, you did, huh? Well, you should have congratulated me then,” Rafe replied.
Maggie grinned and confided, “I even wanted to run across the street to you.”
Rafe’s expression softened for a moment. “I would have liked that too,” he said, lifting his glass and taking a sip, savoring the cool refreshment.
“Well, if you race this year, I’ll do that,” Maggie proposed, her challenge light yet sincere.
Rafe raised an eyebrow. “I think that’s blackmail.”
“Yep,” Maggie agreed, her smile widening.
Rafe chuckled. “I’ll think about it,” he promised.
Maggie nodded understandingly. “Okay. And if you don’t, that’s alright, we could still go watch, enjoy the thrill of it.”
“Of course, we can. Anything you want,” Rafe assured her.
Leaning back a little, Maggie sighed happily. “I always end up eating too much at the fair. I mean, I absolutely love those funnel cakes, candied apples, and popcorn. Just about every treat.”
“I like the funnel cakes too,” Rafe admitted with a grin.
Maggie beamed. “It’s next week, isn’t it?”
“Yes,” he confirmed. “It used to be later in the month, near the end, but they moved it up when it started getting too cold. Now it’s a little chillier, but not cold enough to keep people away.”
Maggie laughed. “The people of Clifton will show up for anything to support their town.”
“True,” Rafe agreed. “Do you want to catch a movie after we eat? Or we could stop by Dewey’s, or even head home, whatever you want.”
“I wouldn’t mind spending some time at Dewey’s,” Maggie said.
“Then that’s exactly what we’ll do,” Rafe confirmed.
After finishing their meal and settling the check, Rafe took Maggie’s hand, leading her to the truck. With a courteous gesture, he opened the door for her. Once she was comfortably seated, he circled around and entered his side, starting the truck with a steady hum of the engine as they drove toward Dewey’s.
Pulling into Dewey’s bustling parking lot, Rafe parked the truck and, hand in hand, they made their way into the crowded bar. They found two barstools and settled down for the next part of their evening.
“Hello, what can I get you?” the bartender called out in a friendly tone.
“Hey, Siobhan,” Rafe greeted as she approached the counter.
“Hi, Rafe. It’s good to see you,” Siobhan replied, her warm smile brightening the dimly lit space.
“You too. Maggie would like a Callahan whiskey on the rocks, and I’ll have a beer, tap is just fine. Siobhan? Do you know Maggie?”
Siobhan extended her hand gracefully toward Maggie, her politeness evident. “No, I haven’t had the pleasure yet,” she said, her voice smooth and welcoming. “It’s so nice to meet you, Maggie.”
Rafe introduced them, “Maggie, this is Siobhan Flynn.”
“Hi, Siobhan. I absolutely love your name, it’s so pretty,” Maggie offered with a bright smile.
“Thank you,” Siobhan responded kindly. “I’ll be right back with your drinks.”
Taking in their surroundings, Rafe remarked, “This place is as packed as usual,” his eyes casually scanning the lively bar.
“The band must be on a break,” Maggie observed, the low hum of conversations filling the gaps in the music.
“Yeah, they’ll be back soon,” Rafe noted accordingly.
In a quiet moment amid the lively backdrop, Maggie suddenly leaned closer.
“Will you slow dance with me?” she asked, her voice soft and inviting.
Rafe smiled, his hand reaching for hers once more. “Sure. I’d never miss an opportunity to hold you,” he replied.
“You’re such a charmer, Rafe Marshall.”
Rafe chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and shook his head in playful denial. His smile widened when Siobhan approached, her red hair catching the dim light as she set the drinks on the polished wooden bar.
“Thank you, Siobhan,” Rafe said warmly, his voice carrying a familiar friendliness. “Hey, how’s Liam?”
“He’s doing great, Rafe,” Siobhan replied. “I’ll tell him you were asking about him.”
“Please do,” Rafe nodded, his expression sincere.
“Let me know if you need anything else,” Siobhan added, glancing around the bustling bar. “Do you want me to run a tab for you, Rafe?”
“No, thanks.” Rafe shook his head. “We won’t drink much and I’m driving.”
“Okay, well whenever you want to pay for those, let me know,” Siobhan said, her voice trailing off as she noticed some patrons waving her down. “Have a good evening.”
****
As the band started, Maggie watched the dancers on the floor sway and twirl in perfect harmony with the music. The room buzzed with energy, the air thick with the mingling sounds of laughter and melody. It was the kind of bar that seemed to pulse with life, vibrant and inviting.
A few minutes later, the band launched into a familiar song, and almost instinctively, a line dance began to form. The rhythmic stomping of feet echoed through the space, and Maggie felt the irresistible pull to join in.
“Do you line dance?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
“No, ma’am,” Rafe replied, his tone teasingly apologetic.
“Do you mind if I join this one?” Maggie inquired; her enthusiasm was evident.
Rafe grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. “Sweetheart, I would love it if you did. I can watch you.”
With a playful wink, she leaned over, pressed a soft kiss to his cheek, and made her way to the dance floor, ready to lose herself in the rhythm and joy of the moment.
She laughed with the other dancers who were lost in the music. She really loved this town and its people, but… nope. She shook her head. That evil man would not invade her thoughts tonight. She wanted to have a good time, then go home with Rafe. A man she was head over heels in love with.
When she made her way back to him, she smiled as she sat on the stool.
“That was fun.” She picked up her drink to take a sip.
“It was fun watching you.” Rafe grinned.
“Just so it was only me you were watching,” Maggie teased.
“Maggie, no other woman in this bar compares to you. You know, I love when you dress sexy, but those damn tight jeans and T-shirt are driving me crazy.”
“Rafe, you say the most romantic things.”
He shrugged. “I believe in romance. You have to do what you can to make sure the person you’re with knows you only have eyes for them.” He glanced around the bar. “I’d rather be with you than any other woman, and that’s the truth.”
“I know. I can see in your eyes that you’re being honest. I feel the same about you.”
“I’m glad to hear that. Do you want to stay a while longer or leave?”
“I’m ready to go, if you are.”
“I am.” Rafe stood, waved Siobhan over and asked for the bill. When she brought it back, he handed her the money for it and told her to keep the change.
“Have a good night, you two. Thank you, Rafe.” Siobhan smiled then walked to the cash register.
Rafe took Maggie’s hand, led her through the crowd, then out the wooden double doors and to his truck.
Maggie smiled when he closed the door on the truck and walked around the front. She could not take her eyes off him.
“Please don’t screw this up for me, Frederick,” she whispered as Rafe opened his door and climbed onto the seat.
After he started the truck, he drove out of the parking lot and drove them toward his place.
She waited for him to park, then opened the door and stepped out. She saw Rafe open the back door and remove her bag. She laughed when she heard Booker barking from inside.
“That’s some watchdog you have.”
“Yeah, he’ll bark like crazy but as soon as you step inside, he’s all over you.” Rafe took her hand and led her to the door. He unlocked it, opened it, and Booker came running out.
“He won’t run off, will he?”
“No. Booker, inside,” Rafe said, and Maggie watched the dog run into the house.
“He listens well.”
“He does now.”
Maggie laughed and entered the house with Rafe following behind her.