Page 38 of Rust and Stardust

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen two men become such fast friends. Took me nearly six months to like your father when I started here.”

It wasn’t like Frank to comment on things like that. Something about the way he looked at me made me nervous, like he knew something he wasn’t saying.

“He’s a nice guy,” I replied, not willing to go any further.

Frank nodded slowly, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his weathered mouth. “That he is. A real nice fella.” He paused, his eyes searching mine. “You know, Beau, I've known you since you were just a little screamin’ thing fresh home from the hospital. I've seen you grow into a fine young man. And I want youto know... well, I want you to know that you can always talk to me. About anything. Same goes for Mabel and your father. We love you like you was our own.”

My heart skipped a beat. Was Frank trying to tell me something? Did he suspect...? I swallowed hard, trying to keep my voice steady. “I appreciate that, Frank. Really, I do.”

He clapped me on the shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. “Good. Now, you better get yourself cleaned up. Don't want to keep that city boy waiting.”

I nodded, grateful for the excuse to escape the suddenly charged atmosphere. As I headed towards the house, I couldn't shake the feeling that Frank knew more than he was letting on. The way he'd emphasized “anything” and that knowing look in his eyes... it was unsettling.

Inside, I quickly showered and changed, trying to push my worries aside. I had a date with Lucas to look forward to, after all. As I buttoned up a fresh shirt, I heard muffled voices from downstairs - Mabel and Amber May were still chatting. I'd have to sneak out the back to avoid another encounter.

Just as I was about to head out, there was a soft knock at my bedroom door. “Beau? Can I come in for a sec?” It was Mabel.

I hesitated for a moment before answering, “Sure, come on in.”

Mabel entered, closing the door softly behind her. Her eyes swept over me, taking in my freshly showered appearance and nicer clothes. A small smile played at the corners of her mouth.

“You look handsome,” she said, her tone warm. “I just wanted to check on you before you headed out. I know Amber May's visit was... unexpected.”

I nodded, running a hand through my damp hair. “Yeah, it was. Thanks for runnin' interference back there.”

Mabel's smile widened. “Of course, honey. I know things between you two are... complicated.” She paused, seeming to choose her next words carefully. “I hope you know that your happiness is what's most important to me. To all of us.”

There was something in her eyes, a knowing look that made my heart race. I swallowed hard, unsure how to respond.

“Thanks, Mabel,” I managed to say. “That means a lot.”

“Good,” she smiled. “Now you best get goin’ before you’re late!” She swatted me as I slipped out the door. “And tell Lucas to come by for dinner this week! That boy’s too damn skinny!”

“Yes ma’am!”

Chapter 16

Lucas

“There you are, sugar!” Dolly called the moment I stepped out of my rental car. Beau was already standing there beside her. “I was gettin’ worried you wouldn’t show!”

As if she could get me to skip a night with Beau.

“I was just lettin’ Beau in on our little date night tonight.”

Beau glanced my way, one eyebrow raised. “It was supposed to be a surprise,” I said, feeling my cheeks heat up. “I thought you might like to see how the best pie in Texas is made.”

“Damn right it’s the best,” Dolly laughed, clapping Beau on the shoulder. “But don’t go stealin’ my recipe now. You got your barbecue, and I got my pie. We can live in peace as long as you don’t move into my territory.”

Beau lifted his hand, making a little locking motion over his lips. “I promise.”

I forced a smile knowing it was me Dolly should be worried about, not Beau. God, I felt like shit stealing from these people. They were some of the best folks I’d ever met. For a brief moment I nearly let the truth slip out, but I forced it back down quickly. I was too deep to back out now. Logan and I both needed this. Even if I cameclean now, everyone would hate me. From what Logan told me, rural Texans had long memories. Beau would never forgive me.

Dolly ushered us into the diner, the bell above the door jingling as we entered. The smell of fresh-baked pie and coffee enveloped us, warm and comforting. Beau's arm brushed against mine as we walked, sending a shiver down my spine.

“Alright, boys,” Dolly said, tying an apron around her waist. “Let's get to bakin'.”

“I still can’t believe you’re working on a Sunday,” Beau said. He shot me a teasing glance. “It’s the Lord’s day after all.”

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