Page 37 of A Moment In Time

He entered the restaurant, waved at Becca, then continued to the bar. Paxton wasn’t there yet, and only one row of lights was on over the bar. Gage poured himself a beer, then took a seat on a stool.

Becca came up behind him. “This is a little bit sad.”

He smiled at her. “Just need some peace and quiet. Rose’s class invaded my office this morning.”

“How fun. Are you eating? Or just drinking?”

“I think I need some fish today. Lots of lemon. Fries. A salad.” He thought for a moment. “I think that’s it.”

“Okay. Coffee?”

He held up his beer. “Good on beverages, thanks.”

She patted his arm. “You made it through the morning.”

“I guess I did.”

She left and Gage drank some more of his beer. A few minutes later, Remington sat down next to him.

“How’s it going?”

“Good, now.”

“And how are we feeling about the life-changing choice you recently made?”

Gage took a deep breath. “Still not one hundred percent sure it’s the right thing to do.”

Remington squeezed his shoulder. “You are going to make a great mayor.”

Gage turned and looked at him. “How do you know that?”

“Because I know you. And you’ve never done anything half-assed in your life. When you’re in. You are all in. And Calaway Crossing will be lucky to have you.”

“Hmm. You have to say that because you’re my brother.”

“Maybe. But I’d say it even if I wasn’t your brother. I truly believe it, Gage. You’re going to kick ass as mayor.”

“Uncle Duncan told me last night Jack isn’t quite ready to just hand it over to me.”

“He wants to run against you?”

“He thinks the people deserve to have a choice.”

Remington laughed. “That may be true. But he won’t be anyone’s choice.”

“I don’t know. He has a few friends in town.”

“And you’re related to a third of the people in town. Jack doesn’t stand a chance. But this will give you the opportunity to show everyone you have what it takes and you’re willing to fight for it.”

Gage took another sip of beer. “Okay. Let the games begin, I guess.”

Remington nodded. “Let the games begin.” He got to his feet. “I should get back.”

“Yeah. Who’s cooking my fish?”

“Brynlee’s more than capable. Adisyn is asleep. It’s all good.”

“I’m glad you two have got this all figured out.”

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