“Fire until it feels comfortable. Until you’re used to it. It’s not something to be afraid of—it’s something to learn that you’re in control of.”
She took the pistol and loaded it, this time with three rounds before letting it rest on the table again. I looked at it for a moment and then I picked it up.
I faced the target, lifted the pistol, and then, I pulled the trigger.
Again.
Again.
And again.
Finally, the chamber was empty.
“Better?” she asked.
I set the pistol down again. “Better. Not comfortable yet, but better.”
Nodding, she removed her eyewear and set it aside. She then took off the earmuffs and removed the earplugs.
“That’s good for one day,” she said as she began to pack up.
I glanced at the sky, the sun peeking through the tree canopy.
“Hadley and Salem told me they offered you the money for your bookstore,” she said.
I lowered my gaze to her. “Yes.”
“They also said you turned them down.”
I nodded.
“And I’m guessing you won’t take the money from Brooks, either, right?”
“Right,” I said. “Even though he’d give it to me without hesitation.”
“Good.”
“Good?”
“Yes. Good. Good that he offered and good that you know it’s there should you ever need it. But better that you marry him without that baggage.”
“I thought you of all people would say to take the offered hand when you’re in need.”
“I do say that,” she agreed, closing the case and locking it. “You’ll take the money, but you’ll take it from me.”
“I will?” I asked softly.
“You will.”
“Why will I take it from you?”
“Because I don’t need it.” She smiled. “And you do.”
“I’ll make you a partner,” I insisted.
“I don’t want to be a partner. Take the money. It’s a gift.”
“Was this your plan all along?” I asked with a laugh. “To bring me out here and offer it?”
