Page 21 of Just A Chance

“It came quick.”

I know for a fact things like that don’t comequick. He must have paid a fortune for expedited shipping. And called people who knew people and so on. How did he do this?

“I brought a work truck so I can take out the old one and get the new one set up.”

“You know how to do that?” I say, suddenly feeling vulnerable. He’d do all this for me? I kind of expected him to drop it and leave.

“Just like installing a cabinet,” he shrugs. It looks so boyish, so innocent. My head knows better, but my heart apparently doesn’t. It’s thumping like it can break down all the walls I erected to keep him out.

“That would be great.”

He nods once then turns out of the shop again, to get tools I’m assuming. I pick up the knife.

“Who was that?”

I scream and swing the knife around, barely missing my dad’s chest. “Dad! I could have killed you.”

He takes a giant step away and rubs a spot on his chest. “Well, that makes me feel better about you being here alone at night.”

I shake my head. “Does that mean you’ll stop worrying about me so much?”

“Never.” He kisses the top of my head. “Who was that?”

“Sean Bentley.”

“I thought he looked familiar.”

I frown. “Why would you know him?”

He walks down the hall where we left the picture. I follow him because now I’m curious.

“Of course I’d remember the guy who ruined my daughter’s prom night.” His eyes narrow. “Why is he here?”

“He broke my display case.”

“He did what?” he growls, his fingers destroying the flap of the box.

“He’s replacing it,” I add quickly.

“Hmm.” He releases his hold on the box. “I think I’ll go help him. That’s more important right now.”

“No!” I knew my dad wasn’t Sean’s biggest fan from the get-go, but clearly, he has a vendetta. The last place he needs to be is out there with him. “Mom’s picture is important,” I try, but I’ve already lost him.

He turns and places a hand on my shoulder. “I’ll be right back.”

Fine. I guess I’ll do it. I pull and tug at the box, but can’t free the canvas from it. I hate to play the one-hand card, but I legitimately can’t do this alone.

Chapter 10

Sean

I’mabouttotheshop doors when a man comes walking out. I step to the side to let him pass, but he steps to the side as well and stops right in front of me with an imposing frown.

“Sean Bentley?”

“Yes.”

“Might I have a word?”