Page 60 of Spiritwarrior

“But I didn’t press charges.”

“You might not have pressed charges, but Greer booked her on disorderly conduct, attacking a police officer.”

“What did she do?”

“She ran a stop sign, and when Greer pulled her over, he smelled liquor on her and asked her to take a breathalyzer test. She attacked him.”

Sophie almost didn’t feel sorry for Baylin. Greer came into the restaurant daily, and there had been a couple of instances when she thought about attacking him, too.

She stood up to fold the blanket while Joel threw their empty soda cans away.

“Leaving already?”

Jody’s voice had her lifting her head.

“Yes, Joel’s been called into work,” she explained.

“One of the hazards of dating a cop.” Jody’s eyes switched to Joel’s.

“One of the benefits of working in a small town—it doesn’t happen often.”

Jody looked at the cooler as Joel picked it up. “Before you leave, you mind if I snag the sandwiches you made for me?”

“Of course not.”

Joel opened the cooler, and Sophie reached inside to grab the sandwiches, then gave them to Jody.

“You know, if you want to stay, you’re more than welcome to enjoy the music with my family.”

“I couldn’t …” Sophie started to make an excuse.

“Sure, you can. Ginny could introduce you to everyone. You could even invite them for a drink at the restaurant to get them in the door.”

Jody’s suggestion was smart. She should take advantage of being at the festival to promote the restaurant. Her parents would be here next week. She would love for them to see how busy the restaurant had become.

“That’s a good idea. Do you think Ginny would mind introducing me to some of the townspeople?”

“I think she’d be delighted.”

Sophie smiled at Joel. “I might as well stay here. Thank you for bringing me. I had a good time with you.”

“Me, too.” Joel handed the cooler to Jody. “You might as well take this, too.”

Jody took the cooler from him. “Thanks, Joel.”

Sophie stared back and forth between the two men. “You could always come back after you check on Baylin,” she suggested.

The two men didn’t break eye contact.

“I’m sure Greer will find something else for me to do.”

Sophie gave Joel the blanket. “I’ll see you later.”

“Good night.”

Jody held out his hand. “Sorry you were called into work. I’ll make sure that Sophie gets back to her car.”

“I’m sure you will.”

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