Page 167 of Unraveling Rain
“I promise too. All my tomorrows are yours, Xander González.”
She straddles me, sealing her vow with a kiss.
And in the quiet warmth of our home, we make love—body and soul, heart and promise.
Chapter 41
Rain
It’s been a week since Dennis was taken into police custody. He didn’t have a lawyer at first, so it took a few days for him to find someone to represent him.
In the meantime, I met with Cunningham and went over every detail I could remember from that night. While we talked, it hit me—I’d saved the bloodied clothes I wore.
For some reason, throwing them away never felt right.
Maybe I needed the reminder—to never forget.
Cunningham said having those clothes was huge. Anything that helped to paint a clearer picture of what happened—and the history that led up to it—could strengthen our case.
Dennis’s lawyer formally requested a settlement conference.
Today, I’m going back to Azalea Creek to get the things I saved. It’s also a good chance to check on the diner—and maybe remind the town I’m still here. Thriving.
Even though I’m a mess of anxiety on the inside.
“Hey, hey, everyone,” I call as I step into the kitchen.
“Chef!” Blair shouts from the chopping station, where she’s observing one of the new hires.
“How’s everything going?” I ask, slipping on an apron and heading to the sink to wash my hands.
She shrugs. “Good. Just the townies are coming these days.”
“I heard the hotels will be packed for winter break. Hopefully that’ll bring in more traffic.” I pop a piece of fried okra from a tray—crispy, juicy, perfect.
“Is there anything any of you need while I’m here?” I ask, loud enough for the whole kitchen to hear.
Everyone shakes their heads and keeps moving.
It’s a good thing. I remind myself. If they don’t need me, it means I’ve done my job well— managing the place from a distance.
“Okay, you guys know I’m just a call or text away,” I say as I peek out the diner door, looking for Granny. Only a few of the usual gentlemen are out there, huddled over coffee and pastries.
Untying my apron, I toss it in the hamper by the back door. Blair walks over as I’m opening it.
“I just wanted you to know—you are the most badass woman I’ve ever met,” she says. “I’m honored to work for you. And on behalf of the entire staff, we’re with you. We’re proud of how courageous you are.”
Her words hit like a balm, settling my nerves.
“Thank you, Blair. All of you.” I glance around the kitchen. Everyone’s watching, eyes steady, kind. “It helps to know I have such an amazing group of people supporting me. I’ll keep you posted.”
With a wave, I disappear through the door.
Next stop is the orchard before I head back to Raleigh.
Even though Xander is away for the rest of the week, I don’t want to stay here. Something might trigger unwanted memories.
Besides, being surrounded by Xander’s stuff when he’s gone comforts me. The smell of his clothes helps me sleep better at night.
