Wrecked Palace

by Catherine Cowles

  Griffin shifted in his seat, seeming to search for the right words. “I hate the idea that one of you might be hurting.”

  Mia reached out and laid a hand on his arm. “Everybody has hurts sometimes. But they don’t last forever.”

  So wise for such a little one. I felt my eyes filling again.

  “Oh, geez,” Will complained. “Someone distract her, quick.”

  Ava reached over and tickled my side. I squealed and squirmed away. I gave her my best I’m serious face. “That is not allowed.”

  She grinned. “But you’re not crying anymore.”

  “Fair enough.” I turned my focus to Will. “It’s your turn, and you better make it good.”

  He smirked. “Just not too good, or you’ll flood the table with your tears.” I shook my head and motioned for him to get on with it. “We got pancakes on a school day, and my chemistry test got moved to next week.”

  I placed my hands on the table. “Thank you.”

  “Wait,” Ava chimed in. “You and Griffin should do one, too.”

  My face heated. “We don’t need to make Griffin—”

  He cut me off. “I had amazing pizza, a green smoothie that didn’t taste half-bad, and I learned how to do a cartwheel.”

  If you would’ve told me two months ago that this man would be sitting at my breakfast table playing along with our family’s silly traditions, I would’ve said you’d taken an extra hard hit to the head. But here Griffin was, and it was like he belonged with us in that extra seat at our table. My mind kept catching on one tiny fact, though. “You learned how to do a cartwheel?”

  He chuckled. “It wasn’t pretty.”

  “You’ll get better,” Mia offered. “You just have to practice.”

  I did my best to hold back my laughter. “I need to see this.”

  Griffin winced. “Maybe another day. I think I might’ve pulled something.”

  I snorted. “I can get you an ice pack before you leave.”

  “I might need it.”

  “What about you, Cae Cae?” Ava asked.

  “This breakfast. You guys are good for my soul. And no one makes me laugh harder than my tiny terrors.”

  “And Griffin,” Mia added. “He makes you laugh, too.”

  My gaze locked with Griffin’s across the table. “Yeah. He makes me laugh, too.”

  17

  Griffin

  Caelyn and I watched as the kids climbed onto the school bus. Apparently, the island was so small that the schools shared buses. There was a phantom squeeze in my chest as they disappeared aboard. I couldn’t help the worry, the million what-ifs, swirling around in my mind. I fought the urge to ask how safe it was to let them ride the school bus alone, knowing Caelyn wouldn’t appreciate the question.

  She bumped me with her shoulder. “Thanks again for everything.”

  I looked down at her—rosy cheeks, green eyes blazing in the morning sun. “Anytime.”

  She grinned. “Be careful what you offer. Mia could have you living on our couch permanently.”

  A part of me would’ve happily agreed to the arrangement. I hated that there would be no one looking out for Caelyn and her siblings tonight. No one to stand between them and someone who might want to take things further than a threatening note.

  “What’s with the scowly face?” she asked.

  I did my best to ease my expression but knew I was only partially successful. “We should talk about precautions.”

  The amusement fell from Caelyn’s face. “I guess you’re right. I talked to Will, and he’s going to keep a closer eye on the girls. He’ll be extra careful when he walks them to the store from school those couple of days a week. I’m going to ask Parker for an updated photo of my mom to show Will so he can be on the lookout.”

  Annoyance pricked at my gut. “And what about you?”

  “Me?” She honestly looked surprised that I’d asked. As if it were ridiculous for me to be concerned about her, as well.

  “Yes, you,” I growled. “The note was left on your SUV. It was directed at you. I want to know how you plan on keeping yourself safe.”

  Her expression hardened. “I’ve been taking care of myself and those three kids for years. I’m not a moron. I have pepper spray in my purse and Parker on speed dial. We don’t have an alarm system, we can’t afford it, but we do have good locks. It’s not fancy, but it works.”

  I let out a slew of curses in my mind. “I didn’t mean it that way. I know you take amazing care of those kids and yourself. But this isn’t exactly your everyday safety issue. I’m just worried.”

  Some of the stiffness eased out of Caelyn’s muscles. “I’m sorry. I’m just a little sensitive when it comes to people thinking I can’t take care of myself and my family.”

  “Understood. But I don’t think that.”

  “I know,” she whispered. “I’m just strung a little tight.”

  “I think that’s understandable.” There had been a ton thrown at Caelyn over the past few weeks, and she’d had no time to herself to process. “Why don’t I pick the kids up from school? I can take them out to the farmhouse. They can run around, and then you have a little time to yourself before you come pick them up. Get a coffee, go for a walk.”

  Caelyn was silent for a moment. “I don’t know.”

  “I like having them around. And Will’s supposed to work with me today anyway. I don’t want him riding his bike out to my place alone until we know what’s going on.”

  “You’re sure you don’t mind? It’ll be two hours or so until I’m done with work.”

  I squeezed her shoulder. “Take a little longer. Give yourself a break. Some time to process this week.”

  She nibbled on her bottom lip. “I wouldn’t mind sneaking in a quick yoga practice.”

  “Do it.” Caelyn needed time and space for just her, and I’d do whatever I could to help her get it.

  “Okay. And I’ll bring my pepper spray.”

  I chuckled. “Glad to hear it.”

  “Thank you… Again.”

  “No thanks needed.” I shoved my hands into my pockets. “What time do you have to be at work?”

  Caelyn glanced down at her phone. “Shoot. I need to open in ten minutes.”

  “Let’s go, then.”

  Caelyn locked the front door, and we headed for the SUV. The trip to The General Store was quiet, my brain taking the time to come up with every possible thing that could go wrong in the next eight or so hours.

  Caelyn pulled into a spot at the back of the parking lot, but I paused before climbing out. “Call Parker and then me if anything out of the ordinary happens. Anything at all. Better to be too cautious.”

  “I will, oh overprotective giant.”

  My eyes narrowed on her. “I think the term giant is reserved for Mia.”

  Caelyn grinned. “Fair enough. I’ll see you a little after five.”

  “See you then.”

  We climbed out of the SUV, and I waited until she was safely inside the store before heading for my truck. I stopped just shy of the driver’s side door and glanced across the street. My gaze caught on Ford and his friend, Crosby. I made a split-second decision and crossed to them.

  Crosby wore a wide grin. “Did you just get out of Caelyn’s SUV? At eight in the morning?”

  It took me a second to get the insinuation. But Ford beat me to any retort. He slapped Crosby on the back of the head. “Not cool, man.”

  “It’s not what you think.” The back of my neck itched, and I fought the urge to rub it. “Caelyn ran into some trouble yesterday. I was just looking out for her and the kids.”

  All traces of humor fled from Crosby’s face. “What kind of trouble?”

  I knew that Caelyn hadn’t had time to fill in her friends regarding what had happened, but I also knew that when she did, she’d likely downplay the entire thing. I wanted the people around her, especially those who worked nearby, to keep an eye out for anything suspicious. “Someone left a threatening
note on her SUV yesterday.”

  “What the hell?” Ford muttered.

  “Her mom just got paroled, so Parker thinks it might be her. But unless fingerprints come back on the note, we won’t know for sure.”

  Ford’s eyes widened. “Chrissy got paroled? She was supposed to have years left on her sentence.”

  I grimaced, thinking of how much it had hurt Caelyn and Will to know she wasn’t serving her full sentence. “Overcrowding and good behavior, I guess.”

  Crosby let out a low whistle. “What can we do?”

  “You’re both close. Keep an eye out. Maybe find reasons to drop by the store more than usual?” Ford’s bar was just across the street from the store, and Crosby’s law office was right next door, so it wasn’t out of the norm for either of them to frequent the shop. I could only hope that Caelyn wouldn’t catch on to being looked after. I glanced at the empty parking lot across Main Street. “I hate that she’s there alone for most of the day right now.”

  Ford nodded. “That’ll change in a couple of weeks. Tourist season is already picking up. Old Man Walters will get her some help soon.”

  “If you know him, maybe you could have a quiet word? Suggest that he bring someone on now?” I asked.

  “Not a bad idea,” Crosby agreed. “I can call him now. And I’ll make sure to keep an eye and ear out. I’ll tell my assistant, Penny, what’s going on, too. We’ll stop by at least once a day.”

  The vise that had been gripping my chest since I’d first thought of leaving Caelyn alone this morning eased a fraction. “Thank you.”

  Ford studied me carefully. “What’s going on between you two?”

  His tone wasn’t threatening, but I still bristled at the question. I’d had too many years of people prying into my private life. I took a slow breath, giving myself time so I didn’t bite his head off with my answer. “We’re…friends.”

  “I know you think it’s none of my business, but Caelyn means something to me.” He motioned to Crosby. “To both of us.”

  “She means something to me, too. Caelyn’s a good woman. And those kids are special. They’ve had a shit hand dealt to them and they deserve better than that. I’m just helping out where I can.”

  Crosby grinned and clapped me on the back. “I’m glad you’re looking out for her. She deserves that and more. Maybe—”

  “Crosby…” Ford said in a low, warning tone.

  “All right, all right.” He held up both hands. “I won’t interfere. And I’ll keep an eye out for Miss Caelyn. Now I have to get going, or Penny is going to have my hide for being late for this meeting.”

  Crosby jogged across the street, and Ford shook his head as he went. “Ignore him.”

  “Happy to.”

  Ford chuckled. “I’ll have my brother keep an eye out, too. Hunter’s working on a construction project down the block. They’re framing so they’ll have a clear view of the store.”

  I held out a hand for Ford to shake. “Appreciate it.”

  Ford’s hand gripped mine and held. “She’s been through a lot, and her heart is as tender as they come. Tread carefully.”

  I met his stare and didn’t look away. “I’m not going to hurt her.”

  Ford released his hold. “I’m glad to hear it. Call me if you hear any updates or if Caelyn needs anything.”

  “I will.”

  I felt more at ease as I crossed to my truck and climbed in. But as I started it up, it was still hard as hell to drive away.

  18

  Caelyn

  “For the love of triple fudge ice cream.” I let out a groan as I picked up the third pan I’d dropped today.

  “Uh-oh. That sounds serious.”

  I jumped as I straightened, letting out a muffled squeak. The note left on my SUV yesterday had worked its way into my head. I’d sworn to myself that I wouldn’t let it, but the words had snuck in and were now wreaking havoc on my brain. The idea that someone, most likely my mother, wished me harm had me jumping at my own shadow.

  I did my best to smooth out my expression as I took in the man in front of my station. He was tall with dark hair and features. Handsome with a bit of an edge. “Sorry about that. It’s just one of those days. What can I help you with?”

  It was just a bit early for the lunch rush. Usually, the time when Griffin would’ve snuck in to avoid the lunch crowds. Just the thought had a little pang pinging in my chest. Even though I saw him several times a week now, I missed his surprise visits to the store. The demand for veggie-free sandwiches.

  “I saw the Help Wanted sign in the window and thought I’d see if you’re looking for anyone part-time. I’ve heard great things about your sandwiches. I live over on Shelter, but word has made it that far that this is the place to get lunch on Anchor.”

  The man’s deep voice snapped me out of my musings. “I’m glad to hear we’re making a name for ourselves. But if you live on Shelter, are you sure you want to commute over here for part-time work?” It was a bit of a haul. I didn’t think we needed the extra help yet. But Mr. Walters had shown up a couple of hours ago insisting that he wanted two people working at all times.

  “I really need the extra hours. I’ve got a kid I’m trying to get joint-custody of, and lawyers don’t come cheap.”

  There was little that would’ve made me want to hire someone more. Maybe because my parents had never fought for my siblings and me a day in their lives. “Do you have any grocery experience?”

  The man smiled. “Bagging and stocking shelves in high school. But it’s been a minute since I’ve run a cash register. I’m Max, by the way.”

  “Caelyn.” I reached out to shake his hand. “Sorry I didn’t make introductions.”

  “No big.”

  “What’s your availability?”

  “I work nights at a bar on Shelter so I’m available for any day shifts here.”

  It was exactly what we needed. And I had to admit, it would be nice not to have to run back and forth between the register up front and my kitchen in the back. “Looks like this might be a good fit. Why don’t you pull up a stool, and we can talk details while I make you a sandwich?”

  “Really? Just like that?”

  I shrugged. “Why not? It’s not a marriage proposal. If things don’t work out, we’ll go our separate ways. Now, what sandwich can I get you?”

  Max glanced up at the chalkboard menu. “It all sounds really good. Why don’t you just give me your favorite.”

  “Trusting. Is there anything you don’t eat?”

  “I’m pretty adventurous.”

  Not another veggie-phobic, at least. I smiled down at my cutting board as Griffin’s face filled my mind. “I’m going with a prosciutto concoction that’s a fan favorite.”

  “Sounds amazing.” Max slid onto the stool. “So, how long have you worked here?”

  “It feels like forever.” I’d worked at the store since I was in high school. I was lucky enough that when I needed a job after taking custody of my siblings, Mr. Walters had given me my old one back. He’d also been more than understanding about all the millions of emergencies that had popped up in my first few years as a guardian. And he’d let my responsibilities grow with time. “The prepared foods piece is new, though. Only a year or two old.”

  “So, you’re a born and raised islander?”

  I slid the sandwich into the panini press. “That I am. What about you?”

  Max toyed with a paper napkin by his placemat. “Grew up on Shelter and doubt I’ll ever leave.”

  “And why would we want to? This is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I mean, not that I’ve seen a lot of other places, but just based on pictures…”

  He chuckled. “I agree. We’re damn lucky to be where we are. Your family still here, too?”

  I lifted the top of the press and used my spatula to slide the sandwich onto a plate. “All the family that matters.”

  “Sounds like there’s a story there.”

  “Isn’t there al
ways when it comes to family?”

  “Ain’t that the truth?” Max took a bite of the sandwich, and his eyes widened. “Holy shit. This is amazing.”

  I laughed. “I guess your friend spoke the truth, after all.”

  “I guess he did. I feel like I owe him at least a beer now.”

  “Sounds like fair payment to me. Or you could just pay it forward and tell someone else to come eat here.” As busy as tourist season was around here, we could always use more word of mouth. At some point, maybe Mr. Walters would expand our operation, and we could start a true café. I caught myself before I got lost in all the possibilities. “Do you want anything to drink?”

  “I’ll take a Coke if you have it.”

  “That I can do.” I bent and grabbed one from the small fridge under the counter. “Here you go.”

  “Thanks. This really is one of the best lunches I’ve had in a while.”

  “I love hearing that. Most of the time, people take things to go, so I don’t get the reaction.”

  “Shortstop!”

  Kenna’s voice rang out through the small store, and I stiffened. “I’m back here, but I have a customer.” I glanced at Max, blushing. “I’m so sorry. That’s one of my best friends, and her manners are just a bit lacking.” I sent a pointed stare in Kenna’s direction as she appeared.

  Max stood, gathering the remains of his sandwich and his freshly cracked Coke. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll get out of your hair. But do you need me to fill out any paperwork?”

  “You can do it on your first day. How about tomorrow at noon?”

  “I’ll be here. Thanks, Caelyn.”

  I watched as Max made a hasty exit from the store and then I turned my glare on Kenna. “Seriously? You’re going to scare away my new employee now?”

  She looked just the slightest bit sheepish. “Sorry. I didn’t think anyone would be back here.” I didn’t say a word, just kept my gaze leveled on Kenna. Her eyes narrowed. “Don’t give me that stern mom look. Do you remember all the times you and Bell came over to my place the past few months and gave me a hard time for not letting you in on what was going on in my life?”