Page 46 of Bachelor Remedy

“Because…it just does. Does Bering approve of this?”

He scoffed. “Why would I need his permission?”

Shay sighed. “I’m talking about your campaign. Did you run this by him and Senator Marsh? How do you think it will look to people if you’re dating a twenty-year-old? Especially one who already has a reputation.”

“She’s twenty-two. And what reputation?”

“Well, thank goodness she’s at least old enough to legally drink a beer. People are talking about her, Tag. About the clay and the marijuana she gave to Ginger. And now she’s helping Hannah—and others, too, apparently.”

“She didn’t give Ginger marijuana.”

“That’s not what I heard.”

“Before you start repeating gossip, let me assure you that I know what I’m talking about. I was there, Shay, when the conversation with Ginger took place.”

“Oh. But that doesn’t—”

“I understand your concern about the medical advice, but Ally is a very intelligent woman.” Despite his defense of her, he couldn’t help but hope she was using that intelligence wisely where this subject was concerned. “She knows what the laws are.”

“I’m not worried about her, Tag! She can practice voodoo and get arrested and sent to the gallows for all I care. I care about you.”

“Voodoo is more of a religion,” a voice said from behind them. “And while I believe in a holistic approach to health, it doesn’t include animal sacrifice or zombies. Although, as a Native American, I do sympathize with the sensationalism and misunderstandings where the voodoo belief system is concerned.”

Ally stood in the doorway, and Tag marveled at how unruffled she appeared. Like she was recounting a pleasant weather forecast and not defending herself against his sister’s insulting comments. Shay, on the other hand, had enough grace to look embarrassed.

Ally pointed out the door. “Your sisters had to go so I thought I’d see if I could help.”

“Ally, I’m sorry you heard that,” Shay said, sounding anything but. “It wasn’t personal. I was just trying to make a point.”

Ally nodded. “Well done, then. Tag, I’ll wait for you in the pickup.”

“I’ll be right there.” He hoped his smile communicated some of the admiration he felt for her. Shay wasn’t an easy person to combat.

They watched her walk away. Tag frowned at Shay. “I don’t think who I date is anyone’s business but mine.”

“That’s very noble, but also impossibly idealistic. Because, unfortunately for you, when you committed to this campaign, your life became the public’s business whether you like it or not. It’s also your family’s business because we care about you. And dating Ally Mowak is going to imply things about you.”

“Shay—”

“No, listen.” She stepped toward him. “I’m sorry that just happened, but maybe it’s a good thing. She should think about this, too.”

“How can you be so—”

“I know—” she interrupted. Blowing out a breath, she continued more calmly, “I know I can sound harsh. I know I’m opinionated. Everyone agrees about that. Especially lately because I’m super stressed out, Tag, I’m…” She paused for a few long seconds. “Never mind. That doesn’t matter right now. I’m not sure you understand how difficult running for office can be. I don’t imagine Ally does, either.”

“Shay, it’s state senator, not king of the world. And to ease your mind where Ally is concerned, it’s not serious, and it won’t get that way. We’re just…hanging out.”

“Come on, Tag. You are so…good. Do you know that?” Her features softened, reminding him of the sister he used to know before the disappointments of life had so cruelly sharpened her bitter edges. “That’s one of the reasons I think you’re going to win. But I’m also scared for you. You’re not used to people not liking you.”

Tag sighed. “Shay, relax. Senator Marsh has done background checks and hired an investigator to find dirt on me. There’s nothing. My goodness, as you so derisively refer to it, happens to be an asset in this case.”

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