“You are so beautiful, Bailey. Inside and out.”
His words were said in a whisper, but they settled over her heart. She ducked her chin as a blush crept into her cheeks. “You’re sweet.”
The front of the store opened, and Jenny poked her head out. “Hey, Bailey, Carl finished building the new shelves and needs to know where you want them.” She gave them an apologetic look followed by an amused smile before disappearing back into the store.
Nate stood reluctantly. “I’m going to run back to your house and check on Minnie. I’m sure she’s ready for a chance to run outside for a bit. Do you want me to take the boys? They might enjoy the change of scenery. No pressure, though.”
“That’s a great idea. I’m sure Rachel and Jenny could use the break.” She chuckled. “I’ll be right back.”
Inside, she told her friends the plan. The boys were thrilled with the idea of going back to the house with Nate.
“Make sure you listen to Nate and don’t cause trouble.” She gave them her best stern look.
“Yes, ma’am,” they echoed.
She gave them each a hug, ignoring her instinct to give Nate one, too. They hadn’t had a chance to talk about it yet,but she wanted to keep this new change in their relationship on the down-low until things settled a little. “You boys give Minnie a pat for me.”
“We won’t be gone too long.” Nate held up the watch. “And I’ll put this in a safe place for now. If Logan doesn’t find anything significant, you should be free to post something on social media next week.”
“Sounds like a plan.” Bailey waved goodbye and watched them drive away before finally turning to go inside. She answered questions about the shelves and then found Jenny and Rachel chatting in the office area. She walked in and gave them both a hug. “You two are seriously my heroes today. I owe you both a steak dinner or spa day or something. Without kids, of course.”
Both women assured her that they didn’t mind hanging out with her sons one bit.
“Seth kept things interesting,” Rachel said with a smile. “He mentioned the watch and how you guys are going to go treasure hunting by the sunflowers. He has such a great imagination.”
“Yes, he does. I told him we could go walking around the field but not to expect to find much. Nate took the watch in to have it cleaned, and it has an inscription on the back.” She recited it for them. “I’ll put up a general post on social media next week and see if anyone contacts us.”
“That’s a good idea.” Jenny leaned against the small desk in one corner of the little space. “Someone must have missed it at some point.”
Rachel nodded. “I’m sure that’s true. Why wait until next week? If you post it before Friday, someone might come in while we’re open to ask about it.”
“Someone at the precinct is looking into several leads, and he’s cross-referencing the watch just in case. I doubtthere’s any connection between it and the guy who’s been harassing us, but you never know what may turn up. Maybe someone reported it missing at some point, especially since it’s a more expensive watch and clearly has sentimental value.” Bailey shrugged. “Either way, I hope we can find the owner.”
A knock at the open door drew the ladies’ attention to Officer Clint Baker. “Hey, Bailey. Nate mentioned you were looking for a company to take down that old barn. My brother, Drew, is a demolition contractor who will be happy to give you a free estimate. Tell him I sent you, and he’ll take good care of you guys.” He handed her a business card.
“This is perfect, Clint, thank you. I’ll give him a call first thing tomorrow.” She flashed him a smile. She’d rather call someone a friend recommended than go with a company she knew nothing about. As far as she was concerned, it was a bonus that this was Clint’s brother.
“Not a problem.” He gave a wave and went back into the main part of the store.
Bailey read the business card and slid it into her back pocket with a happy sigh. Today was full of a lot of positives. Just the support she’d seen from friends was enough to remind her that, no matter how bad things might look, brighter days were coming. Things were starting to come together. Now she prayed they would catch the man responsible for all this mess before he struck again.
Chapter Thirty-Three
Nate lost track of how many people he shook hands with. Pizza had been consumed, all the volunteers thanked, and the store looked amazing. Now it was just him and Bailey, Rachel, Jenny, and the kids, and everyone was exhausted.
Rachel took in the building with satisfaction. “I’ve got to say, people came through in a big way. We should be able to open normally on Friday.”
“It’s truly a miracle.” Bailey collapsed on a stool behind the main counter. “Tomorrow evening, I’ll focus on getting some pumpkins lined up out front for those who don’t want to go down to pick them directly from the vines.”
“I’m happy to help.” Nate flashed her a smile.
“I appreciate that.” When Bailey returned the smile, there was an added warmth to it. He couldn’t wait to sneak a kiss in later.
Jenny stretched and hopped up to sit on the counter. “I’m looking forward to a long bath, some chocolate, and a good night’s sleep.”
Bailey pointed to her. “Amen, sister.”
Nate’s phone rang, and Paris’s name flashed on the screen.
