Page 15 of Sworn to Protect

I glance at the various packages lying on the ground. It looks like Nate bought several sizes. “You really are a ‘Mr. Fix It’ guy.”

He chuckles. “I come in handy at times.”

I bet you do.

“It will be nice having full use of the faucet.”

“One more crank, and I’m done.” He scoots out of the cabinetand flips to his stomach. He turns off the shutoff valves and stands to test the faucet—another success.

“I can’t thank you enough for helping. The Gallezes will be back soon. They’ll address some of the other issues and reimburse me for your payment.” I toss him a dishtowel after he washes his hands.

His reflexes are quick as he swipes the towel midair and dries his hands. “I don’t need to be paid.”

“I can’t ask you to do all of this without some reimbursement.”

“That’s not why I helped. Besides, it’s illegal to collect payment when I’m not a licensed plumber.” He winks.

Why are you so kind?I don’t ask the question burning inside me. Instead, I take the coward’s way out. “True, but I don’t like it.”

“I tell you what. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a home-cooked meal. You can owe me one.”

“That can be arranged.” I smile the first genuine smile I’ve felt in a long time. I can’t remember how long it has been since I’ve cooked for someone other than my boys. A tiny twinge pinches my stomach.

Nate’s gaze lands on the kitchen table where my nursing books lie. My body stiffens. I hate that defensiveness is my automatic response, but I can’t help it.

“You’re in nursing school?” The surprise in his tone isn’t mocking. It’s more curious than anything.

“I start next week, actually. I’m enrolled at Cessna University of San Francisco. They’re an extension from the main college in Los Angeles.”

“Yeah, I’m familiar.”

“It’s the closest college that fits my needs with its rolling admissions. Classes start soon, and the program lasts for two years.”

“Nursing’s a great career choice. What made you choose nursing?”

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. My plan had always been to become a nurse.”

“What stopped you?”

It’s an innocent question but loaded with a heavy answer. “Life got in the way. Ethan and I got married young. Then, we had Liam. Since Ethan was gone a lot with his career, he never wanted me to work.”

Nate’s body stiffens as he nods. The relaxed demeanor from earlier dissipates like a faded memory. “I guess that’s understandable. As long as you agree.”

My lips flatten as I try to fight off the feelings that swell up. Arguing about my going back to school and getting my nursing degree had always been a sore spot in our marriage. But Ethan is dead. Rehashing things I can’t change is useless.

“I’m going now. That’s what counts.”

Nate eyes me for a second before nodding. A moment later, Liam comes in.

“Mom, is it safe to use the bathroom now?”

“Yes, you can thank Mr. Dixon for fixing it for us.”

Liam turns his steel-blue eyes toward Nate and cocks a half-smirk. When he makes that face, he looks so much like Ethan it hurts. “Thanks, Mr. Dixon.”

“You’re welcome.” Nate’s voice comes out half garbled. His face pales. It’s almost as if seeing Liam made him edgy. Perhaps I mistook his earlier encounter, and he’s not into kids? I shake my head. That can’t be right. He was so patient with him. It doesn’t matter if he’s into them or not. Nate’s likes or dislikes aren’t my concern.

Liam sprints down the hallway and dives into the bathroom. I let out a small chuckle and turn to Nate but stop laughing when I take in his posture. He stands ramrod straight, expressionless. It’s as if he’s turned to stone.

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