Page 38 of A Moment In Time

Remington smiled. “Mom did it. Raised us in that kitchen. At least part of the time.”

“That she did. And I guess most of us turned out okay.”

“Who didn’t?”

Gage grinned. “I wonder about Pax from time to time.”

Remington nodded. “And Cooper.” He laughed. “I’ll go check on your fish.”

As Gage was pouring himself another half glass of beer, Becca returned with his food. She set it on the bar.

“Here you go.”

“Thank you.” He went around the bar and sat down, then looked at Becca, who didn’t appear to be in any hurry to leave. “What’s up?”

“You tell me. I get the feeling everyone knows something. And I’m the only one left in the dark.”

She was right. Gage had only told the immediate family. “Do you have a minute?”

Becca smiled and sat next to him. “What’s going on?”

“You aren’t the only one left out. I didn’t tell anyone beyond my siblings, parents, and grandparents.”

“Okay. I guess I get that. What is it?”

“You need to keep it to yourself. The mayor will be making an announcement during his Valentine’s Day dinner.”

“What announcement?”

“He’s leaving office and I’m running in the special election in April.”

Becca was quiet for a moment, then she squealed. “Oh, my gosh. Are you kidding me?”

“No.”

She hugged him. “That’s so cool. My cousin the mayor.”

“You don’t think it’s weird? Or that I’m totally unqualified?”

“No. Not at all.” She took his hand. “And you know me. I’d tell you if I thought you couldn’t do it.”

“I believe you would.”

“How long have you known?”

“Since the Winter Festival. Not long.”

“This is so exciting.” She looked at him. “Why aren’t you more excited?” He cocked his head, and she added. “Right. I forgot who I was talking to for a minute.”

Gage looked at his fish. “I should eat this before it gets cold.”

“Oh, right. I’ll leave you to it.”

“Remember, it’s a secret.”

Becca put a finger to her lips. “Not a word.”

The fish was excellent as always, and as Gage was finishing up, Paxton came up behind him.

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