Page 4 of Heart of the West

“It’ll take me a few to get everyone’s order.”

I head into my office and fire up the computer. I have enough time to skim the top of the reports before Trixie barges into my office.

“I have everyone’s order. I hope they don’t run out of gingerbread pancakes.”

“I don’t know why you all like that sweet stuff.”

“Not all of us eat healthy twenty-four-seven.”

I shrug, take the list, put back on my hat and coat, and head out the door. I decide to walk. It’s not that cold. My boots have plenty of treads and the city already has salted the sidewalks. The streets are getting busy as people head to work. Shops will open soon. Molly’s opens at three and closes at ten.

As soon as I enter the diner, I spot Ruby Buffet. She’s sitting across from Dustin Whitebear. The realtor story checks out. I wonder if she's going to buy the old bakery. Her car is parked in front of it. Sally Anne comes bouncing up to me.

“What can I do for you, Sheriff? Did you know there’s a new lady in town that’s buying the new bakery?”

“Is that fact? I have an order for the station.”

“Oh sure. Let me get right on that. Can I get you a cup of coffee?”

“Yes, you can.” I take a seat. Sally Anne pours the coffee and takes the order into the kitchen to give it to the cook. I already added my own omelet to the bottom of the order.

She quickly retrieves a mug and pours me a fresh cup of java. I inhale the rich scent before drinking. I take my coffee black. No need for all that shit. Sally Anne rattles on about the latest town gossip while I wait for the station’s order. I don’t know why the girl feels the need to fill me in on the town gossip. She should know I don’t cotton to that. I like facts, not rumors, hearsay, or innuendos. Then she said something that perked my ears.

“Can you believe she’s been in town less than an hour and Dustin’s already asked her out? I bet they go to Spotted Horse.They have the best steak in town, not to mention dancing. I love to dance.”

“Dustin doesn’t date married women.”

“Oh, that. I overheard her saying her divorce is final on Christmas Day. Can you believe her husband told her that was his Christmas present to himself? What a jerk.”

What a jerk indeed. Why the hell would you tell your wife that? Even if she’s a soon to be ex. That’s abusive shit right there. Intentional infliction of emotional pain. Makes me want to punch the fucker in the face. See if he likes intentional infliction of pain.

Dustin gets up to leave the booth. I see him slip into the private dining room with his phone out. Business call. I pick up my coffee and walk to her booth. I slid in across from her. Her face pales.

“No need to clutch your pearls, ma’am. Just thought I’d give you a friendlier welcome to town.” I offer my hand. “I’m Sheriff Effrem Reeves. Welcome to Wolf Creek.”

She looks at me for a moment, then takes my hand. “Ruby Buffet, new in town.”

“Rumor has it you’re buying the old bakery.”

She looks stunned. “Wow, small town gossip really is fast. I haven’t even signed the papers yet.”

I nod my head. “Sally Anne there is faster than a speeding bullet for spreading the news. She’s not a hateful gossip, girl just can’t keep her mouth shut. Other than that, she’s a good kid.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

“So, is the rumor true?”

She nods her head. “It is. I’m signing papers after breakfast. Mr. Whitebear was kind enough to have our meeting here. I’m famished.”

Her stomach growls in agreement with her statement. Pink colors her porcelain skin. She’s gorgeous, with deep red hair, and dark sapphire blue eyes.

Whitebear arrives back at the booth before we talk more. I get up, take my coffee with me. I nod at Whitebear.

“Whitebear.”

“Sheriff. How are you this morning?”

“Cranky. I should be home working at the ranch instead of filling in for Deputy Dipshit.”

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