Page 38 of Long Pig
“Thank you for coming.”
Dale’s jaw was set. “I shouldn’t need to, like I said before. You aren’t the only woman he’s harassing. Giving that man a badge is criminal.”
Willow touched his shoulder. “Thank you for forcing me to make the complaint. I feel better that he is at least getting some punishment.”
They passed Lucia, and she gave them a small wave and silently mouthed, “See you Saturday.”
“Are we going to the wedding party?” Dale asked once they were inside his truck.
“I don’t know,” Willow said.
“Parties like this happen all the time here especially among the Hispanic community. We’ve been invited, and it would be rude not to go.” He put the truck in gear and they pulled onto the road.
“I think you’re sweet on Lucia,” Willow said.
Dale’s cheeks turned red. “Mind your manners young lady. I can’t believe you’re already trying to get rid of me.”
She placed her hand on his. “I’m not, but I want you happy. Lucia is sweet on you, and you never know where that will lead.”
“I’m changing the subject,” Dale said gruffly which made Willow laugh. “It’s my turn to cook dinner, and I’m thinking spaghetti.”
“That I won’t eat,” she said.
“It’s vegan stroganoff. I found the recipe online, and it will most likely taste like shit, but I’m tired of you nagging me.”
That made Willow laugh again[DN1].
Dale continued, “I need a couple of weird items from the grocery store so I’m stopping.”
Willow didn’t question the weird items, and if they were too weird, the high-priced local store wouldn’t carry them. She’d discovered that the hard way. Dale had to ask a clerk for one of the ingredients, but otherwise he found what he needed. They had grapes on sale so Willow picked out a bag that looked halfway decent.
She was relieved to have the trouble with Wallard behind her. Visiting the library was one of the few things she enjoyed that took her off the ranch. After the deputy pulled her over she didn’t think she would return. Hopefully she could sleep tonight and put this behind her.
Though she was nervous, they went to the wedding party. She wore jeans and a tight sparkle studded T-shirt with cap sleeves and one of her grandmother’s necklaces. She felt pretty and laughed delightedly at Dale’s whistle.
The party was held across the street from the Catholic Church. It was set up with large, permanently fixed grills, plastic tables, and hay bales to sit on. A band played Mexican music, and the crowd was lively. People greeted Dale to varying degrees. Some gave handshakes, some hugs, and some a simple nod. He introduced her to a few people.
“I agree with Lucia,” he said. “I’m the DD, and you need to drink a beer or three.”
“I’m not a huge fan of beer,” she reminded him.
“After three, you won’t care.”
“You’re not a very good guardian,” she said.
“Yes I am. You’re young and need to let loose a bit. This is the perfect opportunity.”
They headed to a short beer line and saw Lucia. A huge grin split her face when she noticed them.
“I doubted you would come, but I’m so happy you did.” She hugged them both then turned to a young woman standing beside her. “Sofia, this is Willow, Joan Morgan’s granddaughter. She doesn’t know anyone in town. Willow, one of my many nieces, Sofia.”
It surprised Willow when Sofia kissed her cheek and took her hand. “I’ll get us to the front of the beer line and refuse to introduce you to my brothers. Two are unmarried, and I’ll warn you ahead of time. They’re rascals and not worth your time until they settle down.”
Sofia appeared to be Willow’s age, had a slight accent, a lovely round face, and expertly applied makeup. She wore a tight green sequined dress with a high slit up one side that showed her leg up to the top of her calf. Willow would have felt underdressed but too many people wore clothes similar to hers. Sofia placed her arm through Willow’s and walked to the front of the line. She held up two fingers, and immediately, two large plastic cups were placed in her hands. She handed one to Willow.
“Do you dance?” she asked.
“No,” Willow said and glanced at the dancers.