Page 150 of Shadows of You

Roan’s eyes heated. “If you want to talk punishments—”

“Mama!” Cady yelled. “Nightmare!”

We were both on our feet in a flash, all heat vanishing. Roan was out the door and down the hall before me. The second he opened her door, Cady flew at him.

Roan cradled her in his arms, rocking her back and forth. “It’s okay, Tiny Dancer. I’ve got you.”

“There was a monster under my bed, and he was trying to get me,” Cady sobbed.

“No monsters are gonna get you when I’m around,” Roan said, his voice gruff.

My heart squeezed painfully. This man was everything I’d ever wanted for my girl and so much more.

“Look, I’m doing a check, Katydid.” I bent and peeked under the bed. “Nothing here but a few stuffed animals.”

“Y-you’re sure?” she asked.

“Totally positive.”

Cady burrowed deeper into Roan’s hold. “Will you stay with me for a while?”

“Always, Tiny Dancer. As long as you want.”

* * *

Elsie wincedas she strode toward the register. “Should you be working today? You look a little rough.”

I gave her a wan smile. “Gee, thanks.”

“Sorry. I just meant your shiner. And you seem a little tired.”

I sighed. I felt like I’d been run over by the same truck Roan had. “Cady had a couple of nightmares last night, and it took us a while to get her down.”

“I’m sorry,” Elsie said. “Is she okay?”

“She was a little sleepy and cranky this morning but hanging in there. Hopefully, she goes down early tonight.”

“Let me know if I can do anything,” Elsie offered.

“Thanks. I really appreciate it. Now, what can I get you?”

“I’ll take one of those chocolate peanut butter cup muffins. You’ve got me addicted.”

I laughed as I grabbed the muffin. “I love to hear that.”

Elsie handed me a few bills. “Keep the change.”

“Thanks,” I said, adding the extra to the tip jar.

I lost myself in the rhythm of customers. The sun was out, and things were busier than they had been lately. It wasn’t just Jonesy and Elsie filling seats. A handful of tourists, locals on their lunch breaks, and a mom out with her infant were also in. But Officer Hall stayed perched outside to ensure we had no unwanted patrons.

The hustle and bustle were a welcome break. It helped to distract me from everything else that was going on. One hour bled into two, and people came and went in a steady flow.

A curse sounded from the kitchen, and I winced. “You okay, Zeke?”

“Need you to watch the stove or take out the trash,” he called back.

I did not want to be responsible for ruining whatever Zeke was cooking. “I’ve got the trash.”

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