Page 43 of Dark Shadows

“You don't have to forgive him,” Tina said. “Just maybe give him a chance?”

“A lot of people seem to be asking for chances lately.”

“Yeah, well, maybe that's because...” Tina stopped as Officer Daniels approached their table.

“Evening, ladies. Special Agent Spencer.” He nodded to Mason. “Everything okay over here?”

“We're fine, thanks,” Savanah said.

“Good to see you back, Savanah.” His smile seemed genuine. “Town hasn't been the same without you.”

As he walked away, Tina raised an eyebrow. “Since when is Daniels nice to you?”

“Or glad you're back?” Mason added, taking a sip of his beer and watching the cop.

“After seeing him at the diner, I was sure he and the sheriff were ready to run me back out of town.”

“Maybe it was just for show since he was with the sheriff?” Mason offered. The look in Mason’s eyes as he stared at the cop was full of suspicion.

“More like he's just waiting for me to screw up so he can actually lock me up this time. I'm not a minor anymore,” Savanah muttered.

“A lot of things have changed around here,” Tina said.

“Wesley hasn't.” Savanah grinned and gestured with her beer. “Still would rather read than socialize.”

“Wesley is still the same old Wesley, but he's coming out of his shell a little. Mark taught him to play basketball, since mydad never did, and they're playing on an adult league at the college.”

“Wow. That's impressive. I never thought I'd see the day your brother enjoyed any sport.”

They both laughed.

It was as if Wesley knew they were talking about him. He slid off his stool, caught her gaze, and gave a small wave before heading for the door and disappearing into the night.

Mason smiled at their shared history, but his eyes kept tracking Officer Daniels across the bar.

Savanah tipped her beer bottle toward Mason, eyes gleaming. “The suspicious cop in him is like glitter. Gets everywhere. Never fully comes off.”

Tina snorted into her drink.

“Seriously,” Savanah went on, “I bet even his pajamas have a badge stitched into the waistband.”

Mason didn’t flinch. Just sipped his beer and gave her a lazy smile.

“That’s funny,” he said, “because I don’t usually wear pajamas.”

Tina choked.

Savanah blinked.

He just kept smiling.

“But if you’re that curious,” he added, voice low and smooth, “you could always stop guessing.”

“I just might have to take you up on that offer.”

The drunk by the pool tables was getting louder, his voice carrying over the jukebox. “Can't believe they let her kind back in town.”

Mark said something too low to hear, but the drunk wasn't having it.