Page 17 of Jagger

Her sarcastic laugh was one of the things Shephard adored about her. She reached over me, selecting a box of Cinnamon Chex. “Nutritious and sweet. Is there something you’re not telling me?”

She knew I’d glare at her since she turned her evil grin away from me.

“Just a guest who needs help.”

“In this weather? Whew. I hope they know they’re going to be snowed in for a while.”

I nodded and took her suggestion, trying to move around her. “Yeah. I’ll tell her.”

“Jagger. You know Shephard really wants you to be his best man.”

It had been a conversation I’d avoided. They were planning their wedding. I was happy for them, but I had no desire to be a part of the festivities. Sure, I’d buy them a present, but that was the extent of it. Being his best man seemed like the last thing my brother would want. “Tell him to pick Hunter.”

“He doesn’t want Hunter. He wants you.”

I didn’t turn around or say anything else. There was nothing to say, the subject between me and my brother. “Yeah, well, we can’t all have what we want, Denise. It doesn’t work that way.”

“When are you going to stop feeling sorry for yourself, Jagger? You have two brothers who give a damn about you. Why don’t you show them some love in return? At least some respect.”

I’d tried to be more of a friend, especially to Shep, but our bullheaded personalities continued to keep us at arm’s length.

I knew she continued to stare at me. She’d tried to become my friend, maybe because she’d be considered family soon enough. I had no interest and not because of her. She was a nice girl with enough balls to keep my brother on his toes.

I had my reasons and that was final.

She finally knew it was no use and walked away. I’d hear about it from my brother, but as with most things, I just didn’t care.

After finishing my shopping, including grabbing a few bottles of wine and a couple of bottles of booze for myself, I knew it was time to get going. At least Bella and the cute kid would have enough food for at least a week. The number of items I’d purchased was four times what I had in my house if not more. The money wasn’t the issue. Cooking for myself simply didn’t have appeal.

On the way out of town, I noticed the small toy store was still open. Slowing down, I stared at the storefront window, debating if I should go in. It was impetuous of me to think I had any better idea what kind of toys a little girl would like than a box of cereal. However, I felt compelled.

As I’d seen with so many quaint towns, there was on-street parking. I found a parking place a couple of blocks down. The tourists were out in droves, taking pictures and enjoying the constant holiday music being piped from unseen speakers. With the snow covering the ground, I cringed as I headed down the sidewalk.

As usual, I was waved to by just about everyone, some recognition in a few pairs of eyes, but mostly, it was all about being nice to a stranger. I did my best to keep my head down. A chill shifted down my spine the moment I walked in. I must have looked helpless since a young woman appeared from behind the counter.

“Can I help you?” she asked. “You look lost.” Her smile was genuine and she offered me an appreciative glance all the wayto my boots. When I was younger, I would have toyed with a woman’s flirtatiousness, enjoying the banter. Not any longer. The thought of a relationship left a bad taste in my mouth.

“I need some toys for a little girl.” My voice sounded even rougher than before. Impatient.

She lost her smile. “How old?”

“I don’t know. She’s about this big.” I placed my open palm about three feet or so off the floor.

The woman narrowed her eyes. “Well, if you don’t know then I’m just guessing and could be totally wrong.”

“I won’t shoot you if you are.”

For the first time, her gaze held a hint of fear, but she managed to blow it off. Yeah, I was being an asshole. Being in this town around these people had forced me to retreat further into my shell. What I knew and few others did was being an asshole that was feared by some and loathed by others was a much better alternative for everyone involved.

No one would get me to change, including some woman with an intent on brightening the world after saving it.

Or even one so beautiful I’d remained awake all freaking night long thinking about her.

Truth be told, I’d fantasized about her. Bella was refreshing to a man who’d given up on life. Still, I’d do my good deed and walk the fuck away. That was best for everyone.

I was a fuckup and caring meant suffering, which in turn would mean I’d create agony for others. No, it was better to be this way.

“I’d say maybe three or four. Let me gather a few items for you to choose from.”

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