Page 57 of Whiskey Throttle
“I probably shouldn’t say this, but . . .”
I glance over at him. He runs a hand through his hair.
“Dominic’s been back there. At Barrettmoor.”
That stops me cold.
“Oh?”
“Yeah.” He looks up, cautious now. “He’s, uh . . . he’s been seeing someone. She’s a profiler, smart from what I hear.”
I straighten a little.
“He has?”
He nods, leaning his forearms on the counter.
“I only know because Diego mentioned it once, in passing, when I asked if Dom was riding with us. Something about him taking her to his estate. Said she’s good for him. Levels him out.”
I stare at the polished granite countertop, trying to take it in.
My mind reels.
Dominic.
Back at Barrettmoor.
Bringing someone with him. Someone to break through the grudges and bitterness he holds onto like a lifeline. It’s shocking. Something he’d never divulge to me.
“How long ago was this?” I ask, my voice trills and thins to my own ears.
“A few weeks? Maybe a month. I didn’t ask for details. It didn’t feel like it was my place.”
I don’t know what I feel, shocked, curious, maybe even a little envious. Not of the woman. But of the possibility. Of the idea that Dom could revisit that place and not be broken by it. That maybe he’s healing in ways I haven’t let myself consider.
“That surprises me.”
It’s all I can think to say. He watches me, careful and quiet.
“I thought it might. That’s why I hesitated mentioning it.”
“No.”
My hand claps over his, needing to assure him that his confession is good news.
“I’m glad you told me. I just, uh, I didn’t expect it. The place is practically closed up except for a small staff for maintenance.”
“Knowing Dom, he’s probably kept it that way. You know he despises the trapping of wealth.” Hollister chuckles, but it’s hollow and empty. “He’s trying, I think. But aren’t we all trying to live the life we want, Babs?”
I nod slowly, emotions tightening in my throat again. Not from guilt this time. From the hope in his voice. The healing that is taking place in all of us.
Even for me.
“Yes, I suppose we are.”
CHAPTER 15
HOLLISTER
