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CHAPTER TWENTY

Kinley took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She wasn’t going to let the events of the past few days control her life. She would handle this, just as she had handled everything else. She wouldn't let fear or uncertainty dictate her actions. She was stronger than that.

The local hardware store was a short drive away, and as Kinley navigated the familiar streets, she allowed herself to relax a little. The sky was a brilliant blue, the sun shining brightly overhead. It was the kind of day that made anything seem possible.

She pushed the unsettling thoughts to the back of her mind and focused on the task at hand. Grabbing a cart, she steered it into the store toward the aisle full of door handles. She was so lost in thought that she didn’t notice the man right in front of her. She jolted in surprise as her cart slammed into his. “Oh, God, I’m so sorry!”

His surprise melted away as he did a kind of double-take. “Oh, hey. Hi.”

“Hey.” She couldn’t help but smile at Lance, whose bright blue eyes bored into hers. “Good to see you again.”

He grinned. “You, too. Hope things are going better for you.”

She gave a little flick of her wrist. “Not really, but it’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“I’m sorry.” His smile slipped away. “Another run in with your ex?”

“No, thank God.” She made a little face. “There’s just been a lot going on recently, and I’ve been a little… stressed.”

“I can understand that.” His gaze flicked once more to the stitches that cut across her forehead, and she fought the urge to cover them.

She felt compelled to change the subject, and her gaze dropped to his cart. “Looks like you’re working on a project, too.”

He tipped his head toward the myriad tools. “Replacing some tile in the bathroom. What about you? What are you working on?”

“I’m actually replacing the locks on my doors.” She gestured to the wall of locks and doorhandles. “My place is pretty old. Just want to feel a bit more secure, you know?”

Lance nodded, his expression turning serious. “I get that. Well, if you need any recommendations, I can help. I’ve done a bit of this myself.” He reached for a lock on the shelf, examining it before handing it to her. “This one’s pretty solid. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind.”

Kinley took the lock, looking it over. “Thanks, Lance. I appreciate the help.”

“Anytime,” he said, his smile returning. “Hey, if you’re ever feeling up to it, I’d love to take you out sometime. Maybe dinner? No pressure, of course.”

Kinley felt a warmth spread through her at his words. “That sounds nice. I’ll let you know, okay?”

“Great. Just let me know when you’re ready.” He gave her a friendly wave as he headed toward the checkout.

Kinley finished her shopping, her mind still on Lance’s invitation. It was nice to have something positive to think about, something that wasn’t overshadowed by fear or uncertainty. She made her way home with her new locks, feeling more hopeful than she had in days.

Once home, she set to work replacing the locks. She started with the front door, following the instructions meticulously. A sense of giddy accomplishment washed over her as she tested the new door handle and lock. When she was certain everything was working properly, she moved on to the back door, repeating the process a little more quickly this time.

A smile broke over her face as she stared at her handiwork. It felt as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. As she sat down to relax, she smiled to herself, feeling a spark of anticipation for the future. Everything was finally falling into place. There was still a lot to be done—but for now, she just wanted to enjoy the feeling of being secure in her own home again.