“I appreciate the compliment, Sheriff.” Henry smiled and wandered toward the kitchen area.
The front doors of the bar opened, and a group of people I’d seen at the political mixer piled into the bar. They took up the empty tables and stools at the bar. Before they’d arrived, the bar had been nice and quiet, but now the energy changed and became more raucous. It made me think of Kyle’s curfew suggestion.
“What did you think about Kyle’s curfew idea?” I asked.
Royce grimaced. “I think it wouldn’t go over well. There isn’t much to do in Rainy Dale, and closing down the bars early won’t be a popular suggestion.”
“Yes, that’s what I thought too.”
“I’m sure Kyle meant well with that suggestion. I do think he actually cares about Rainy Dale.”
I frowned. “I still resent that he jumped in the race instead of supporting you.”
Royce smiled. “Nah, he was just a kid trying to make a mark for himself.”
“You’re far too generous.” I sniffed.
His smile faded. “I don’t know what Pervis will do if Kyle dies. Twins have such a strong bond.”
“That’s what I’ve heard,” I murmured. “I obviously wouldn’t know firsthand.”
Royce met my gaze. “I always wished I’d had a brother or sister. What about you?”
I grimaced. “I’m not sure. Knowing my father, he’d have simply pitted us against each other.”
“Would he have really done that?”
“Definitely. Although maybe having a sibling would have taken some of the pressure off of me. He’d have had someone else to pick at too.” I gave a weak smile. “That’s probably not why you wanted a sibling.”
“No. I was thinking more of someone I could have played checkers with or made blanket forts with.” He gave a crooked smile.
I leaned on my elbows, looking around the bar at all the people. “Maybe if I’d had a younger sibling, I wouldn’t be so scared of having kids. Lots of people with younger siblings like kids.”
Royce tilted his head, studying me. “I didn’t have siblings, but I want kids.”
I flicked my gaze to his. “True. But you’re naturally warm and giving.”
“Not always.”
“More than me though.”
He grimaced. “You’re better all the time.”
“Sure.” I had no illusions I’d ever be as naturally warm and generous as Royce. “Anyway, that’s probably why I’m the way I am about kids.”
Royce’s expression tensed. “Do you think that’s something you can get over?”
“You make it sound like the flu.”
He didn’t smile as I’d hoped. “I’m just curious if you think you might change your mind one day.”
“Well…” I was saved from answering when Henry set our drinks down.
“Nachos should be up shortly.” He smiled and walked away.
Stalling, I sipped my drink. But when I met Royce’s gaze over the rim of my glass, I set the beverage down guiltily. “I don’t know if I’ll ever change my mind,” I admitted.
“I see.” He cleared his throat. “What is it you’re afraid of when it comes to kids?”
