Page 101 of Caught in the Crossfire

“Nothing important.” Dawn handed Linc one of the plates she held. “Since I wasn’t sure what you liked, I chose a variety of desserts.”

“I’ll eat anything that doesn’t eat me first.”

Nicole wrinkled her nose. “Really?”

“Can’t afford to be picky when your rations run out, and you’re behind enemy lines.”

“I guess not. Where’s Mason?”

“Talking to Brian about Monday’s work schedule and the security situation on site.”

She froze. “Security situation?” Nicole didn’t like the sound of that. “Have vandals targeted the Oakdale apartment complex?”

“You could say that.”

Nicole and Dawn exchanged glances. “You know more than you’re saying,” Nicole said.

“Maybe. If you want to know more, wait until we’re home to ask Mason.” Linc steered Dawn and Nicole toward their table.

As Mason headed their direction, different members of the construction crew stopped him to talk, impeding his progress. Finally, he slid into the seat beside Nicole.

“Everything okay?” she asked.

He nodded, frowning when he noticed Linc watching Patton and Fisher. “Something I should know, Linc?”

“Patton made some remarks to Dawn while I spoke with Campbell.”

“What did he say?”

“I’ll tell you at home.” Nicole wrapped her hand around his fist. “Don’t let those men spoil a pleasant evening.” The last thing she wanted was to allow the men to goad Mason into a public response. They were up to something, and she didn’t want Mason to fall into their trap.

Brian moved to a microphone set up for him to address the crowd. Nicole tuned out the greetings to the employees and families, and scanned the crowd. All but Patton and Fisher paid attention to Brian’s speech. They talked to each other in hushed tones.

Her attention returned to Brian when he said, “I have two announcements and thought our company cookout was the perfect time to give you good news. First, we signed a contract with Richland Development Group to build their new housing development. That means Elliott Construction will be busy for the next 18 months or more. There’s a possibility that Richland will be buying more land in our area. If they do, Elliott Construction will be their first choice of builders.”

He waited for the applause and whistles to die down. “My second announcement has been in the works for a while. As you know, Elliott Construction is the largest contracting firm in Otter Creek and Dunlap County. Because of our reputation for excellence in jobs of all sizes, we’re the first choice for homeowners who need repairs or remodeling projects completed. That side of our business has exploded in the past two years.”

Brian glanced around the crowd until he spotted Mason. “Mason, join me, please.”

Whispers and low-voiced murmurs erupted as he walked to stand beside his boss.

“As you know, Mason Kincaid joined Elliott Construction two years ago and has been a huge asset to this firm. He and his team of workers are largely responsible for the explosion in home remodels and repairs. Because of the Richland development contract, I felt the time was right to create a new division in the company geared toward the home repairs and remodeling market. I’m pleased to announce that Mason will lead the home rehab division. Dean Connor will be his assistant. Join me in congratulating Mason and Dean on their promotion.”

Brian held up a hand after a moment to still the applause. “If you want to work in the home rehab division, see Mason or Dean to throw your name in for consideration,” he continued. “Exciting days are ahead for Elliott Construction. Thank you for your hard work and loyalty. There’s plenty of food left. Help me out by eating more. If you don’t, my wife will have me eating hamburgers and hot dogs for months.”

Amid laughter, Brian moved from the microphone and clapped Mason on the shoulder.

“Looks like everyone is pleased about Mason’s promotion,” Dawn said.

“Not Patton and Fisher.” Linc inclined his head their direction.

The men glowered at Mason and Brian for a moment, then rose and stalked around the side of the building. A ball of ice formed in Nicole’s stomach. Those men were trouble.

Mason started toward their table, but workers and friends stopped him to shake his hand and share a word with him. Nicole smiled. At this rate, he might make it to their table in time to leave for home.

When Brian’s wife, Emily, began to clean minutes later, Mason was still working his way through the crowd of well-wishers.

Nicole leaned close to Dawn. “I’m going to help Emily. No one seems to be helping her box up food.”

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