Page 80 of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

I wrapped a scarf around my hair and put on my sunglasses before I got out of the car. I was still obsessed about not being recognized, because while I realized it wouldn’t be hard for anyone really looking at me to realize who I was—my disguise was thin at best—fears did not go quietly into the night. I needed to face the things I was terrified of, and meeting this woman was one giant leap toward facing down my demons.

Belinda got out and we walked to the entrance to Darling Investigations. The blinds were drawn, and for a brief moment, I worried we were too early and that no one was here, but that was foolish. It was only five minutes before three. Still, I was relieved when Dixie opened the door before we had a chance to knock, ushering Belinda and me inside.

Summer was sitting on the edge of her desk, her forehead wrinkled with worry lines.

“You need to stop frowning, Summer,” I said as I took off my glasses and tucked them into my purse. “Those lines will make permanent grooves, and you’re much too young for Botox.”

“You’re wrong about the Botox,” she said, relief smoothing out her brow, likely because I wasn’t so mopey. “Women get it younger and younger. Preventive maintenance.”

I walked over to her and patted her cheek. “You’re beautiful just the way you are, but don’t be frowning on my account. I’m fine. Really.”

She searched my eyes. “I have absolutely no idea what Rachel’s going to say, Magnolia. This may be a complete waste of time, not to mention it might be painful.”

“I know.” She and Dixie had both stressed that last night. “And if she’s full of shit, so be it. We’ll kick her out and go get a drink.” I glanced over at Dixie, who seemed to be the more laid-back of the two. “Whereisthe nearest bar? I don’t remember seein’ one.”

Dixie laughed. “That’s because there isn’t one in Sweet Briar. The closest bar is halfway between here and the Georgia border.” She lifted a brow. “Good thing for us, the border’s not that far. The bar’s about twenty minutes from here.”

I smiled, and it felt good. “Then I say we plan on it.”

“But you might be overdressed,” Dixie said, gesturing to me and then Belinda. “You look like an old-fashioned movie star inthat green dress and scarf, and Belinda looks like she’s about to walk a runway in those white capris and pink silk blouse.”

“I think what Dixie is saying,” Summer said with a warm look, “is that you two won’t fly under the radar there. People are likely to recognize you.”

“Maybe it’s time I stopped hiding,” I said. “Maybe it’s time to face things instead.”

Summer gave me a knowing look. “Like face your fears.”

“Exactly.”

The door opened behind us, and my heart skipped a beat. It was one thing to pretend to be brave and another to actuallybebrave. But I dug deep to find the courage to face Rachel, as Dixie said, “I’m sorry, sir. We’re closed. If you want to make an appoint?—”

“I’m here for Magnolia,” a familiar voice said.

I spun around and gasped. “Colt?What are you doing here?”

“Do you really think I’d let you go through this alone?” he asked as he crossed the room to me. “No way, Mags.” He pulled me into him, and I wrapped my arms around his neck, burying my face into the crook of his neck.

“I’ve missed you,” I said, loving how his body felt so familiar, as though it had been cut specifically to fit me.

He stroked my hair and whispered in my ear, “I couldn’t be away from you for another minute.” He held me close to his chest. “I love you, Mags. I don’t want you to do this alone.” Then he looked over at to Belinda. “No offense.”

“None taken,” Belinda said with a soft smile. “I’m glad you’re here, Colt.”

“This is so sweet,” Dixie gushed, clutching her hands to her chest.

Colt released me but kept one arm around my shoulders as he turned to face Summer, flashing a grin that could melt even cranky old women. “I’m Colt Austin, Maggie’s boyfriend.”

Dixie laughed. “We kind of figured that out. I’m Dixie and this is Summer.”

“It sounds like you two dug out the truth pretty quickly,” Colt said. “I can see why you have your own show.” He paused and his jaw set. Mr. Nice Guy was gone. “I think it goes without sayin’ that Magnolia will be no part of that.”

“You have nothing to worry about, Colt,” Summer said. “I’ve assured Magnolia and Belinda from the very beginning that I had no intention of using their case on the show. Not only would it be disrespectful, but I’d be accused of using something sensational to boost ratings.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “That’s not my style.”

“No,” Colt said. “I can see that it’s not.” He glanced around. “So whereisthis Rachel person?”

“She should be here any minute,” Summer said, casting a glance to the door. “All three of you can sit in the chairs in front of the windows. We’re going to have Rachel sit over there.” She motioned to a chair close to the entrance.

Dixie brought out a chair from the back for Colt to sit in next to me. He grabbed my hand and squeezed tight as I took a deep breath.

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