Page 11 of Enemy Kisses

“Yes, it is.”

“My name is Nix Steele, and I’m the owner ofSteele Security. I’ve been engaged to install motion sensor lights at various small businesses within the city to improve security and community safety. Your business was selected to have security lights installed. I have you on my calendar for tomorrow at five p.m. for the installation. Will that suit you?”

“Uh.” My mind’s gone blank. I had no idea something like this was available. I suppose it might help to make my premises less appealing for unsavory activities in the middle of the night. Although since mychatwith Finn, things have improved. I haven’t had to clean up a single thing, which has been a welcome change and I’m no longer running behind with my morning routine. “That would be great. What do you need from me?”

“I’ll need access inside your premises to wire the lights properly, which will probably take an hour or two. It’ll mean I need to turn off the power to your café.”

I nod, then realize Nix can’t see me. “And it’s completely free?”

He pauses for a moment. “Yes, ma’am.”

“Okay. I’ll be here and you can have all the access you need. Thank you, Mr. Steele.” I hadn’t considered security lighting, but it makes sense.

“You’re welcome. See you on Friday.” Well, this is a pleasant bonus. It’ll be great for when I arrive in the morning, too.

Quentin and Judy have already cleaned up out front, so I work on closing down the kitchen.

“What was that about?” Quentin asks.

I explain what Nix said and when he’s coming to install the new lights. All the while, Quentin’s eyes narrow as he rubs his chin—it’s his thinking action. “That sounds suspect. I can’t imagine anyone spending that sort of money without wanting something in return. I would follow up and maybe double-check with the council.”

My mood deflates. “Really? Why would someone want to do something like that?”

He shrugs. “I dunno. There are weirdos around. Give the council a call.”

Once they’ve gone, I make myself a coffee and decide to follow Quentin’s advice.

“Good afternoon, City Council Offices, Emily speaking.”

“Uh, hi, Emily. I’m not sure whom I need to speak with, but I wanted to talk to someone about a program installing security lights to improve safety for small businesses.”

“Oh. I’m not familiar with that program. Can you please hold?”

“Su—” Elevator music fills the line before I even agree. I check my emails and find a confirmation email fromSteele Securityfor the installation of seven motion sensor lights. I do a Google search for the company and it comes up at the top of the results. Clicking on the link, I locate their community review rating. Four point eight stars. That’s pretty good.

“Hello, are you still there?”

“Yes.”

“Sorry for the delay. I’ve spoken with everyone I can think of who may know something about the program, but nobody’s heard anything about it. I’m sorry I couldn’t help you.”

Hmmm. “But I have a confirmation email here fromSteele Securityto install the lights tomorrow afternoon. Do you think it’s legitimate?”

“I’m sorry. I can’t help you.”

I thank Emily and disconnect the call, even though I have more doubts now than when I first called. The guy seemed genuine on the phone, and the email and website look professional. I wonder who’s behind the initiative? I read the information on theaboutpage and learn Nix is former military. He’s a handsome older guy in that stern kind of way that I assume comes from being in the military. I study the photo of him closely to commit him to memory.

* * *

Right at five o’clock, the squeak of brakes near my back door alerts me to Nix’s arrival so I make my way outside. I don’t want to be trapped inside in case the guy is unsavory. At least outside, I can shout for help or run away. Bold letters clearly show STEELE SECURITY on the van along with company details, including their business license number. I snap a quick photo. Everything seems legitimate. When the driver climbs out, he’s definitely the guy from the photo on the website except with a few more grays at his temples, which make him look distinguished. I blow out a relieved breath because I don’t think I have anything to worry about.

It took some convincing to get Quentin to finally leave this afternoon. Once I told him the council knew nothing about the security light initiative, he wanted to stay back with me to make sure I was safe. If it weren’t for Judy reminding him about his nephew’s basketball game and that there are plenty of people close by at the pub, I think he would still be here.

Nix approaches me with a warm smile that transforms his face from harsh to friendly. “Hello. You must be Harry.”

His hand slides into mine. “Yes. You must be Nix.”

“Yes, ma’am. Would you like me to show you where I plan to install the lights?”

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