Page 66 of Mountain Refuge

Taya heard the sound of drawers opening and closing. “You think someone might be close enough to hear?”

“Not really, but it isn’t a chance we should take. I’ve already seen those two men looking for you twice. Odds are high we will again.”

“I agree. If we aren’t within the safety of these four walls, it’s Anita and Amber.” She stared into eyes the color of dark coffee. “Thank you. This is going above and beyond.”

“Hey.” He shrugged, his eyes twinkling. “Part of it is definitely selfish. I needed a way to break through the writer’s block. This whole thing has my mind spinning with plot ideas. It’s I who should thank you.”

She gave a sardonic chuckle. “Let’s see if you feel the same way if you come face-to-face with The Boss.” Whenhecame face-to-face with The Boss.

Chapter Seven

The next morning, minus Astro and Boris, they climbed into the JJeep and headed to town. As she drove, Taya did her best to psyche herself to the fact she’d have to pretend to be madly in love with the man beside her. She’d never been in love before. How did someone act?

“I haven’t been around long to make many acquaintances.” Ryan cut her a glance. “Most of the people will know me from my books. They might give you a curious glance, but they’ll mostly want an autograph or for me to sign a book.”

“I’ll keep my head down and pretend I don’t like the attention.” Which wouldn’t be a lie.

“The diner has outdoor tables if you’d be more comfortable outside.”

“I would.” Maybe. Being outside left them exposed to anyone driving by. Eating inside, gave them little space to escape. “Especially with the dog.”

“What about leaving her in the car?”

“No.” Tracy piped up from the back seat. “She goes wherever I do.”

Taya shrugged. “Outside it is.” The spring morning didn’t require much more than a light jacket. She could sit with her back to the road, along with Tracy. Anyone looking for them wouldn’t expect a family. Ryan’s crazy idea might just work.

They’d no sooner sat at an outside table when a smiling server greeted them. “You can bring service dogs inside.” She handed them each a menu.

“We’re fine out here.” Taya forced a smile. “It’s a beautiful morning.”

“It sure is. I’ll be back to take your orders. What can I bring y’all to drink?”

Taya and Ryan ordered coffee while Tracy asked for an orange juice. So far so good. No one paid them any attention. No one sat at the other outside tables. Other than a quick glance their way from those at the inside tables near the windows, people pretty much ignored them…uh-oh. A middle-aged woman burst through the diner door and rushed their way.

“Mr. Boyne! I’m one of your biggest fans.” She clasped her hands across her heart. “If I’d known you were here in town, I’d have brought all my copies of your books. Oh, wait until I tell my book club.”

Taya’s blood chilled. This was not a good idea. Too many people would be flocking around Ryan for them to be safe.

“I heard you got married,” the woman gushed on. “Such a lovely bride, too. Welcome to Misty Hollow. I promise to have an armload of books the next time I see you.”

“When you do, I’ll be glad to sign them for you.” Ryan shot Taya an apologetic look.

Thankfully, the server returned, and the fan went back inside the diner. “Have you decided?”

“I’ll have the biscuits and chocolate gravy.” Taya handed her the menu.

“Me, too.” Tracy grinned. “Chocolate for breakfast!”

Ryan laughed and ordered the breakfast special of three eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, and toast. “Can you bring us another side of bacon for the dog?”

“Absolutely.” The server smiled at Betty and headed to turn in their order.

“I’m surprised you’re sitting with your back to the road.” Ryan arched a brow and added cream and sugar to his coffee.

“Believe me, my skin is prickling. I don’t want to chance those two men driving by and recognizing me or…Amber.” She dumped two sugars into her cup. “They’ve already met you, heard about your nuptials…it just seemed best to sit facing away from curious people.”

“Then I promise to be your eyes.” He reached over and put a hand over hers.

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