“I get the feeling because you’re such a nice guy, the Raidens think you’ll just roll over and let them steamroll you.”
“They’re wrong,” he rasped. “If it’s a fight they want, it’s a fight they’ll get.”
I shivered, taking in the glint in his eyes and the stubborn tilt of his jaw. “You’re kind of sexy when you’re all riled up like this.”
He laughed. “Yeah?”
“Uh-huh. Who knew politics could be such an aphrodisiac?”
He gave an exaggerated wink. “Maybe I’ll make you see stars and stripes later, Max.”
I smiled, happy to see him back to his happier self. “You’re gonna beat them, Royce. I feel it in my gut.”
“I hope you’re right.”
“I am,” I said confidently. “The Raidens have money and influence, but you actually love Rainy Dale. It boggles my mind why, but you do. The people can feel that from you. They know how much you care about this town. It doesn’t take a genius to see the Raidens are just greedy, power-hungry assholes.”
“Yeah,” he said quietly, “but greedy, power-hungry assholes rule the world, Max.”
“Well, they don’t rule Rainy Dale. Yet. And we’ll see to it that they don’t.” I stood on my tiptoes and kissed him.
He tugged me closer, and when the kiss ended, he said, “You continually surprise me.”
I sighed. “You’re not alone. I barely recognize myself lately. And I think that’s a good thing.”
Chapter Sixteen
Royce
With my new positive attitude firmly in place, the next few days had me feeling more confident about my chances of winning the special election. The phone calls continued to come from concerned citizens who had read theTown Tattlerarticle. I’d expected the phone calls to taper off, but they really didn’t. It was enlightening, and heartening, to realize I had the support of a lot of the citizens of Rainy Dale.
I’d just finished my day and was considering leaving a little early. I wanted to spend some quality time with Max. He was bored not working, and I didn’t want him feeling neglected. After almost losing him, I felt the need to hover more than usual. He didn’t seem to mind, which made me happy. I didn’t think I could stop even if he did mind. I also realized he’d be moving out soon, so I was savoring our time together.
When my phone rang, I sighed. My sigh quickly morphed into a groan when I recognized Penelope’s number. I considered not answering but then decided it might be awkward if she somehow found out I’d ignored her call. Considering all that was happening lately, it was important to stay on her good side.
I answered the phone. “Hello.”
“Sheriff?” Penelope’s voice was bright. “What are you doing right now?”
My heart sank. “Thinking about going home early.”
“How about instead of that, you come on over to Wagon Wheel Lane?”
I frowned. “Now, why would I do that?”
“Because the city council and I decided there’s too much animosity between all the candidates for sheriff.”
“Uh… says who?”
“Says me. I heard tell that Liam James put his foot in it with you.”
“Oh, well…”
“Apparently, he accidentally showed up at your house, passing out flyers?” She sighed. “When I saw Angela at the Women’s Club meeting, she told me she felt just terrible about sending him over there.”
I gritted my teeth. “Come on, Penelope. That was no accident.”
“No?”
