Page 26 of Kissing the Sheriff

“Of course.”

“I’ve heard otherwise.”

Conrad’s eyes widened. “I beg your pardon?”

Captain Stanley narrowed his eyes. “She’s a nice young woman, and I’ll not tolerate any shenanigans from the likes of you.”

“I said … hey, wait, who are you, her father?”

“No,” the captain snapped. “Sheriff Laine was a respectable man even if he was a little lazy.I’ma concerned citizen.” His eyebrow arched again. It was as if the bushy thing was alive and would jump off the captain’s face to attack at any moment.

Conrad scooted a few inches away for safety’s sake. “I promise you, Cassie and young Billy will have a grand time fishing.”

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep. And watch what you say to her.”

Conrad sighed. “Dare I ask?”

“Don’t bring up the incident.”

“The … oh, yes, that. You needn’t worry.” He glanced at the captain and cleared his throat. “So, what else does Sheriff Laine like to do other than fish?”

Captain Stanley slowly looked his way, his one eyebrow (really, he should name it something) rising to its full height. “She likes to read.”

Conrad nodded. “Noted. What else?”

“She likes to sew. But I haven’t seen her with a new dress in a long time.” His eyebrow slumped back to normal. “None of the lasses around here have made themselves new frocks. It’s sad, when you think about it.” The captain’s head snapped forward. “Do you like to dance?”

Conrad swallowed. “Of course.”

“Good. Maybe you and your brothers can teach these folks a few new dances. I’ve tried, but no one listens to me. That sea hag always interrupts!”

Conrad forced a smile. “Might you be referring to Mrs. Featherstone?”

“I am,” the captain said gruffly. “That witch is trying to grind this town into dust.”

“Might I inquire as to why?” Conrad arched his own eyebrows.

The captain’s eyes widened in return. “She likes to have control. Then you six came along and she’s losing it.” He cackled, seeming pleased with the prospect.

“I see. How very interesting.” Conrad faced the main road as the wagon turned onto it. They headed up the street, onto the lane leading to Billy’s house and a few other homes, then headed for the other end of the orchard where the baskets were waiting to be loaded. “Anything else you can tell me about Sheriff Laine?”

Captain Stanley snorted. Was he about to laugh again? “Tread lightly, lad. Don’t be in a rush.”

“Excuse me?”

“She’s been hurt. Her heart can’t take much more.”

“Oh.” Conrad nodded. “If you think I’ve any intention of …”

“Well, don’t you?” he snapped.

Conrad sighed. He’d had enough. “Kindly allow me to finish a sentence.”

“Fine then, talk!”

“My brothers and I understand what’s at stake here. We know everyone’s been through a lot. It’s why we decided to stay and help.”

Captain Stanley gave him another once-over. “See you remember that. Because if you break our sheriff’s heart, I’ll hang you from the highest yardarm! Is that clear?”