“What do you mean?”
“Never mind. Do you want anything to drink?” she asked, her voice a whisper.
“No, thanks. Jo-Ella? Is Ellie named after her?” He remained standing; arms folded across his chest.
Ava perched on the edge of the cushion, glancing up at him. He softened and sank down beside her, close enough that her sleeve brushed his arm. The silence stretched until she finallyspoke.
“Yes, I just switched it around to Ella Jo. She’s also Ellie’s godmother. She has been my best friend since second grade and I lied to her. She’s angry about it and I don’t blame her. I’m sorry you couldn’t see Ellie. I just wish you would have called. She’s staying with Tyler and his family tonight.”
Deacon reached out and covered her hand with his. “I’m sorry. I was in the hotel and I knew it was too early for Ellie to be in bed, and I thought I’d just swing by.” He sighed and rose. “Listen, I should probably head back—”
“No.” Ava sat up straighter. “We have things to talk about.” She hesitated, then asked, “What did you learn about the cattle?”
His voice turned businesslike. “I was right, it was the two oldest Winchester boys. I’m sure their father’s in on it, but they’re not talking. But there was another man involved. John Smith.”
Her breath caught. “John Smith? The John Smith that worked here for my dad?”
“Yes.”
“Did you tell him?”
“I did.”
“I can’t believe he didn’t call me. John worked here for years.”
“Your dad told me. Maybe he hadn’t had time to tell you yet.”
“I’ll ask him tomorrow. He’s out now. I think he’s seeing someone and I might have to resort to following him.”
Deacon let out a short laugh. “Spying on your dad?”
She waved a hand, half-smiling. “He won’t tellme and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to find out what he’s hiding.”
He studied her intently, the warm glow of the lamplight catching in his eyes, illuminating their depths. Then he offered a small, rueful smile that seemed to carry a weight of understanding.
“Maybe he just isn’t ready to tell you yet,” Deacon suggested, raising an eyebrow in disbelief.
“Well, he better.” Her eyes narrowing as she thought about him not telling her.
“Maybe they’re just friends,” Deacon offered, his tone teasing.
Ava looked at him, her eyes narrowing playfully. “You’re ruining this for me,” she accused, though a smile tugged at her lips.
Deacon laughed. “Sorry,” he said, his apology lighthearted.
Ava’s smile widened. “I’d be happy if he’s seeing someone,” she said with a smile.
“So, it wouldn’t bother you?” Deacon asked, his tone softening with genuine curiosity.
“No, just the opposite,” Ava replied, her expression turning reflective and wistful. “I want him to be happy. My mom has been gone for a while now, and he’s only sixty-two and very handsome, if I do say so myself.”
Deacon nodded, understanding in his eyes. “Well, maybe he’s waiting to see if it goes anywhere before he tells you and your brother,” he suggested thoughtfully.
“Maybe. I do know that Tyler wouldn’t be disappointed either.”
“How long has your mom been gone?” Deacon asked gently, his voice laced with empathy.
“A little over three years,” Ava replied, a shadowpassing over her face. “She had breast cancer.”
