Small Town, Big Secrets

by Elsie Davis

  Becky’s admiration rose another notch. It was a personal passion of her own as well, just not one that she’d been able to do anything about. “Except you’re not the district attorney.”

  “Not yet, but I’m counting on it.” He shot her a grin that went straight to her heart. The man had a dream and a vision. Unfortunately, it didn’t change anything for her.

  “I haven’t filed any charges or complaints, and although I appreciate your offer for help, I honestly don’t need it.” It was far too complicated and would never end well. For Byron and her.

  “But I’m sure the question you were asking the other day in the diner wasn’t for a friend. Am I right?” His gaze bore into her, as if trying to read her mind or her every reaction.

  “I don’t have to answer that. I think it’s time for you to leave.” Becky took a step toward the front door, reinforcing her request. The last thing she needed was for him to use his special courtroom skills on her and wear down her defenses. And she was pretty sure Steve Parker could do it, given the opportunity. There was something about him she wanted to trust, but it was the situation that wouldn’t let her.

  “Becky, wait. I have something else I’d like to talk to you about. Any chance we can go inside and speak like two normal adults?”

  “A Parker in my house? That’s a joke.” She shook her head, the absurdity of it making her smile. “Whatever else needs to be said, you can say it out here.” Becky wanted to hear what he had to say, not that it would make a difference. But she wouldn’t give up the chance to garner useful information. No sense turning away free legal advice.

  As long as she got him to leave before her mother came home, what could it hurt? Because one thing she wasn’t prepared to do was explain why a Parker was planted on her porch.

  “What’s wrong with a Parker in your house?” The grooves of Steve’s brow deepened as he looked back and forth between her and the house.

  “You don’t seriously need me to list them, do you? You live in a mansion with servants, ten bedrooms, six bathrooms, fine art, china, and a rolling expanse of land. I live here,” she said, pointing to the house, “all two bedrooms, one bath, poster art, plastic dishes, and a tiny square of grass. Need I say more?” Becky scrunched her face up in disdain, the image in her head not an overly appealing one.

  “There’s nothing wrong with where you live. An old friend of mine lived in a place just like this when we were kids, and we played at his house by choice. Trust me, it’s fine. It’s the people inside a house that count.”

  Becky’s mouth formed a wide O, a rush of unexpected admiration swirling through her. She’d known Steve wasn’t at all like Jack. Well, except for the throwing money around part—she’d seen him in action at the diner. She’d think more about his answer later, but right now, she needed him to leave before her mother arrived. “Say what you came to say. I’ve got to get in and start dinner for Byron.” She sat down on the top step, surprised when Steve sat down next to her, a move that set her heart to racing.

  “Will you tell me what’s wrong with Byron?”

  Becky bristled, the question forcing her attention back to the reality of the situation. “No. That’s private information. What’s with the sudden interest in Byron? He’s my son and no business of yours.”

  “I realize that, but I just want to help.” The intensity of his gaze unsettled her because he looked as if he meant every word. “Did you ever reach Jack?”

  “No. I tried, but the call went to voicemail. I’m waiting for him to call me back.” It was more than she should have said, but Steve was easy to talk to. She’d have to be careful or he’d have her spilling her guts far more than she had with anyone else. And Jack’s brother was the last person she should be doing that with.

  “Good luck with that.” Steve shook his head.

  “What do you mean?”

  “Jack’s been gone for quite some time by choice. He’s out doing what Jack does best— run the roads and party.” Steve knew his brother well and clearly didn’t approve. Her estimation of Steve rose several notches.

  Becky let out a heavy sigh. Jack was her last resort to help Byron. She wasn’t sure what she’d do if he wouldn’t help. And until he said no, she had to believe there was a shred of decency in the man. “Let’s just hope you’re wrong.”

  “That doesn’t happen often.” His continued obvious derision surprised her. No love lost between the two brothers. The idea pleased her, even though it shouldn’t matter.

  “So exactly why are you here?” There was still the issue of her mother returning, and although she wasn’t averse to talking to Steve, it wasn’t a good idea. Not here. Not now.

  “I have a proposition for you. I know it will sound crazy, but I promise you I’ve thought it through in great depth. I need your promise to hear me out…all the way. Will you promise me that much? In exchange for breaking our date.” Steve grinned. His gaze never left her face as he waited for her answer. Her curiosity was in full swing, and there was no way she wouldn’t hear out whatever idea he’d concocted.

  “It wasn’t an official date, and you know it. But yes, I promise to listen.”

  “I want you to marry me.”

  Nothing that could come out of Steve’s mouth could’ve surprised her more.

  “What?” she spluttered. “I don’t understand why, but clearly, you’re joking. What kind of a person jokes about something like that?”

  “The kind who isn’t joking. You promised to hear me out. Remember?” Steve took her hand as if to keep her from bolting, which was exactly what she wanted to do. The warmth of his hand settled her a bit.

  She took a deep breath and exhaled. “There’s nothing you could say that could make me believe you’re serious about this.”

  “Here’s the thing—it wouldn’t be a real marriage. And it would only be a temporary one. An arranged, temporary marriage. One year max. Think of the benefit to Byron if you do this for me. You’ll have the Parker name and insurance for Byron’s surgery. Anything you need—for yourself and for him—it’s yours.”

  “What’s in it for you, then? What’s the catch?” He was dangling a carrot in front of her face. A big, juicy carrot. Probably the biggest carrot she’d ever seen in her life.

  “What I’m about to tell you, I prefer to remain a secret. I’m trusting you with the truth.”

  Becky nodded, unable to form a coherent answer.

  “My poll rankings are slipping, and my campaign manager thinks it’s because I’m not married and presenting family values to our constituents. I’m determined to win this election and willing to go to extreme lengths to make it happen.”

  Marrying someone for personal gain violated every belief she had, and nothing could induce her to marry a Parker.

  Except Byron.

  Another thought occurred to her, and it was a strong enough argument that almost made her say yes right there on the spot. Marriage to Steve would give Becky the added measure of protection she needed if Judge Parker and his ex-wife ever found out they had a grandson.

  No. No way. It still isn’t the right thing to do. “I can’t. Byron is my problem, and I’ll figure it out, especially since what you’re suggesting could hurt and confuse him. I still have options, and they don’t include marrying you. But out of curiosity, why the year?”

  “I thought we should give ourselves a reasonable amount of time before splitting up. It would look better after the election and give you plenty of time to see to Byron’s healthcare.” Steve’s honesty was refreshing, even if what he was proposing was absurd.

  The irony of the situation hit her hard. A Parker had just asked her to marry him. Her first marriage proposal wasn’t at all the way she’d planned when she used to do pretend weddings with Kayla as a child. “I’m sorry. I just don’t think it’s a good idea.”

  “I understand, though I’m disappointed. I
really do have your best interests at heart.” He stood, an air of discontent all around him.

  Her heart went out to him, and she wished she could help, but circumstances being what they were, it wasn’t possible. “Why is it so important for you to win?” she asked, trying to understand.

  Steve looked away. It was the first time she’d seen him back down from a direct question. “I want to help people who need a fair voice in the judicial system. And yes, there’s also a more personal reason, but I’d rather not share it, especially given that you’ve rejected my proposal. Suffice to say, the marriage would be good for both of us. I hope you’ll reconsider.” Apparently, they both had secrets they were unwilling to share.

  “There’s nothing to think about. The answer is no. I’m sorry.”

  “It really is a win-win. It’s just two friends helping each other out.” He stepped off the porch.

  “Still a no. I’m sorry.” Why did it bother her that she felt like she was letting him down?

  Steve nodded. “Good night, Becky.”

  …

  Long after Byron had gone to bed, Becky mentally replayed her conversation with Steve. A great guy had asked her to marry him. Her first proposal. It should have been special and filled with love, not a negotiation. One year. Then a divorce…

  Byron would never understand, and she had to think of him.

  The shrill ring of her phone broke the evening silence, and Becky dashed to pick it up, not wanting to wake anyone. The kids had gone to sleep, and her mother had to work early. She couldn’t imagine who would be calling this time of night.

  “Hello?” Becky spoke softly into the phone, the unfamiliar number not ringing any bells.

  “You’ve got a lot of nerve calling me and asking for money.” Jack. A voice she hadn’t heard in a very long time, and judging by the slur in his words, not long enough. He always did have a penchant for whiskey. Some things never changed.

  She tiptoed down the stairs and out the front door, not wanting to be overheard.

  “I don’t have anyone else to ask. You’re his father. Please, Jack. You’ve got to help.”

  “I don’t have to do anything. It’s your fault you got pregnant. And the kid is your responsibility. Don’t forget, your mother stills works for mine.” His not-so-subtle reminder was exactly why she’d feared calling him in the first place.

  “But he could die. Doesn’t that mean anything to you?” She wasn’t above pleading with the jerk if there was any way to convince him.

  “I don’t have time to play Daddy.” His surly tone left her in no doubt it was a lost cause.

  “I’m not asking you to. I’ve stayed out of your life and haven’t asked you for a thing. But I need help. And you’re the only one left I can turn to.” Except Steve… She didn’t want to think about that now.

  “No. And if you breathe one word about me to anyone, watch out. You’ve already cost me my football career. I think I’ve paid plenty.”

  “How am I responsible for you not going pro?” His line of thinking was way off base, but then she shouldn’t be surprised. Jack never took responsibility for his own actions.

  “Women were the problem. And last I checked, you were one. Always distracting me, tempting me to party and have fun, skipping out on practices. You were all the same. Wanting more attention than I could give. At least you were the only one stupid enough to get pregnant. I can’t imagine having other brats running around.” His words made her flinch. Byron wasn’t a brat. He was a sweet boy, the likes of which Jack didn’t deserve.

  Tears slid down Becky’s face. As much as she wanted to holler, spit, and scream at the buffoon, she needed to hold her tongue. The last thing she wanted to do was cause him to make good on his threats. If her mother lost her job, they’d have nowhere to go. She had to think of the whole family, just like she’d always done.

  “Never mind.” She hung up before she said something she’d regret. All hope was gone. Becky brushed away her tears. All except the proposal Steve laid at her feet this evening.

  One year.

  Jack would be furious, but if she married Steve, it would end his ability to hurt her and her family. And Byron would get his surgery. Becky thought it over for a few minutes longer.

  Marriage to Steve couldn’t make things any worse than they were now, and it would solve most of her problems. Blind justice. Her son would have the Parker name, and they would ultimately be paying for Byron’s healthcare, even if they didn’t know his true identity. The biggest hurdle would be trying to keep Byron from getting hurt by her choices. Somehow, she’d make it work—for all of them. Byron’s health was worth the risk.

  It didn’t hurt that her new husband also happened to be attractive. Her awareness level around him hadn’t vanished, even knowing he was Jack’s brother. Some things she had no control over.

  She pulled the phone number from her jeans pocket and dialed before she chickened out.

  Steve answered on the first ring. “Hello?”

  “It’s Becky. You have yourself a deal.” She was going to do this. For Byron.

  Steve’s silence worried her. “Excellent,” he finally said, the relief evident in his voice. “You won’t regret it, I promise. Meet me at the entrance of Tucker’s Park tomorrow night at six. We can go over the details.” She could picture him smiling.

  “That’s a little public, don’t you think?”

  “Not at all. It’s perfect for what we need. And, Becky?”

  Her mind raced, trying to decide what he could possibly mean. “What?”

  “Please don’t stand me up this time. It’s our first real date.” She heard him chuckle just before the phone went dead.

  Engaged. To a Parker.

  For better or worse, she was getting married.

  Chapter Six

  Becky approached Tucker’s Park, Byron in hand. Her son would keep the outing a little less obvious and a whole lot less awkward. She spotted Steve, exactly where he said he’d be. He looked different. More approachable. Dressed in jeans and a cable-knit sweater, he looked good. Really good. So far, she’d only seen him in a standard suit, dress shirt, and tie, and she hadn’t been sure until now he even owned a pair of jeans.

  “Good afternoon, Becky. Byron, it’s a nice surprise to see you again.” Steve shook his hand, man-to-man, and her son stood just a little taller. Prouder. He didn’t get much male influence in his life, and he was taking to Steve like a sponge in water.

  “I thought it was a good chance for him to get some fresh air.” Becky didn’t quite look him in the eye, knowing that wasn’t the whole truth. She was nervous, even if it was in part because of the man himself.

  “Hi, Mr. Steve.” He tugged on Becky’s shirt. “Can I go play on the swing set? Big people talk is boring. And I see Johnny from school over there.” So much for having her son as a buffer.

  “I suppose that’ll be okay. We’ll be right over here if you need me.” She pointed to the picnic table closest to the swings.

  “Yes, ma’am.” Byron ran off, all too happy to escape.

  Steve, on the other hand, grinned as he watched Byron and then turned back to her. “I’m glad you brought him. I should have suggested it yesterday. I know what you were doing, but you forgot to take into account the playground drawcard.” He chuckled even more, frustrating her.

  “That wasn’t my intention. I just thought it would be good for him to get out. My mom is still working, and Julia had lots of homework to do.” Becky stood there with her arms folded across her chest, unwilling to confirm his view of the situation.

  “Well, I think it was a great idea. Seals the deal even more, don’t you think? If we’re going to be one big happy family, the sooner everyone sees us all together, the better.”

  “I’m still not sure this is the right thing to do. I’m worried about the effect it will have on Byron in t
he long run. I worry about him becoming attached to you and getting hurt by all this.”

  She’d tossed and turned most of last night, plagued by this very thought. By the wee hours of the morning, she still didn’t have any answers but was determined to make the best of the miracle solution that had landed on her lap.

  Or, rather, on her ring finger.

  “I’m concerned about it, too, but I can promise you, I’ll do everything I can to make things right for him. Even after we split.” They walked to the picnic table and sat down next to each other.

  “Thanks. I appreciate your understanding, and it makes me feel better to know you care. But exactly what do you mean?” Somehow, she had to reconcile this part in her head if she was going to make it work.

  “I would never hurt him. He seems like a good kid, and I’m assuming we would part as friends and that I could continue to see him. He needs a father figure in his life. I’m not signing up for the role, but I’m sure it would do him good to see me on occasion. Maybe I could play ball or whatever it is dads do with sons. Although I may need guidance on that, seeing as my father only believed in working and didn’t have time for kids.” Steve’s voice hardened as he spoke of his father, his facial lines deepening with tension.

  Becky hadn’t known her father, but she didn’t harbor near the resentment Steve apparently did. “Seems to me you’re following in your father’s footsteps.” It probably wasn’t what he wanted to hear, but maybe he couldn’t see the truth. The man lived and breathed law and his career. Just like his dad had done. Was still doing.

  He looked at her, startled. “Why would you say that?”

  “Just an observation. You’re young to be a D.A., aren’t you? You couldn’t have gotten this far by being a slacker.” Everything about Steve Parker reeked of success. His hair style didn’t come from a barbershop. His clothes weren’t from a department store. And his vehicle was top of the line.

  “That’s true, but I had a motivation, and motivation can be a great catalyst to achieving one’s dreams.”