Page 19 of Peaks and Promises

I was about to argue that he didn’t need to do that, either—I was not his problem—but his expression bore no argument. And the truth was, having someone to call if I wound up in trouble, especially someone like Reese Haven, would be reassuring.

So I got out my phone and we exchanged numbers.

“Too bad I can’t just hire you,” I said. “It’s nice to feel safe for once.”

His lips parted, and I thought he was going to say something else. But he didn’t.

True to his word, Reese followed me back to the diner. No sign of Buzz and Hammer. I was almost convinced they’d left town.

But even if they had, I knew they’d be back. Probably when I least expected it. That was how it always went.

I waved goodbye to Reese when I got out of my car. He lifted his hand in return, but didn’t leave. I went inside and clocked in, and when I checked out the window about ten minutes later, he was gone.

An unexpected rush hit shortly after. The good news was, a busy diner meant more tips, and things were going smoothly. But my feet hurt, and I had hours to go before my shift ended.

I peeked into the dining room to make sure I’d brought table four their side of ranch. I had, but now table three needed their check. I printed it out, but before I could bring it to them, Tess called my name.

“Yeah?”

She had the diner’s phone in her hand and held it out to me. “You have a call.”

“Who is it?”

“Someone from a school?” She sounded uncertain.

“Must be about my son.” I took the phone. “Hello, this is Summer.”

“This is Mr. Ross, vice principal of Lincoln Elementary. I’m sorry to bother you at work, but we have a bit of a situation with Nate.”

“What’s wrong?”

“He instigated an altercation with another student. Per school policy, he’s being suspended. We need you to come pick him up.”

“Wait, are you saying he got in a fight? Is he hurt?”

“No, he’s not hurt. And yes, he did.”

“Are you sure? Nate has never been in a fight.”

“It’s probably best we speak in person.”

I glanced around the dining room in a panic. I couldn’t just leave. I had tables. What was Terri going to think?

I couldn’t get fired.

“I understand. I’m at work. I’m not sure how quickly I can get there.”

“He can wait in the office until you arrive. But it would be best if you got here as soon as possible.”

I let out a long breath and glanced toward the kitchen. Terri stood in the doorway, watching me.

“I’ll get there as soon as I can.” I handed the phone back to Tess and turned to Terri. “It’s my son. I have to pick him up from school.”

She didn’t bother hiding her frustration. She didn’t quite roll her eyes, but her expression said she wasn’t pleased. “Get someone to cover your tables.”

“I will.”

“Are you coming back to finish your shift?”