Page 19 of Never and Always
Chapter 6
Everett
Iwas heading down the sidewalk in Windward, back toward home. Even with the chilly temperature and brisk wind, the town was busy this evening. The bars and restaurants were packed with tourists who’d left the slopes and were ready to hit the nightlife.
Laughter echoed from a nearby bar’s patio. They had outdoor heaters going to keep those on the terrace warm. A woman in tight jeans and a fur coat walked past me, giving me an interested look.
I’d just picked up takeout for Dad and me from our favorite Indian restaurant. Snow was falling lightly, and there was a light dusting on the ground. I was wearing my fleece-lined, leather coat and a brown scarf my mom had knitted me.
My mind was on Piper.
The vibe with her brother felt off today. She’d seemed wary, not happy, to see him. Chance Ellis struck me as a young guy out for a good time.
I really wanted to know their story.
I blew out a breath. What I really needed to do was drop this growing obsession with the city girl. It wasn’t healthy.
I turned a corner and mouthwatering smells from the steakhouse hit me. It was on the corner, and Dad’s favorite restaurant. I’d taken him for his birthday. Through the glass window, I spotted Piper at a table with her brother.
My steps slowed. Her brother was waving his hands, telling a story, and Piper had a small smile on her face.
They seemed okay. Maybe I’d read things wrong between them.
Damn, she looked good.
I couldn’t see her lower half, but her blue shirt was the same shade as her eyes and for once, her hair was loose. Part of it was tied up and the rest cascading like pale gold around her shoulders.
Then clearly Chance’s story changed—his face became earnest, and he leaned forward, reaching for Piper’s hand.
She stiffened in her chair and shook her head. A sad, resigned look crossed her face. She shook her head again.
I couldn’t look away.
Chance’s face twisted, turning ugly. I had no idea what he was spitting at her, but her face went blank, her mouth tight.
More tense words were shared.
Piper stood and set her napkin down. Then she opened her handbag, pulled out her wallet and dropped some cash on the table, clearly to pay for their half-eaten dinner.
She strode away, and I lost sight of her in the restaurant.
Chance looked pissed and jittery. He ran a hand across his mouth and glanced around nervously. Then he nabbed the cash off the table and rose.
I turned the corner, heading for the front door of the restaurant. I saw Piper step out, wearing a long, camel-colored coat that was pure class. Her dark, fitted jeans were tucked into knee-length brown leather boots.
Unsurprisingly, they had high heels.
She didn’t see me, but I saw the tears on her face. She dashed them away, then headed down the snowy sidewalk—away from me—at a fast clip.
Shit. Piper Elliscrying. That was something I’d never thought to see.
I’d always thought she was unshakable. Made of steel.
My gut cramped. I didn’t like it.
What the fuck had Chance Ellis said to make such a together woman like Piper cry?
I followed her. She was moving fast, and I was worried she was going to slip. She was clearly walking back to the hotel. I frowned. It was too damn cold, and the snow was getting heavier.
