CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

PARKER

I’m still trying to figure out what I learned last night. I texted Ryan that I wasn’t feeling well and told him I was going to bed. Fortunately, he had a work matter that required his attention. He promised he would see me tomorrow, which is today.

I have an estate sale that I’m going to. I’ve been looking forward to it, which has forced me out of town. Now I don’t have to worry about seeing him. Perfect.

I walk through the house, checking out the pieces I’m interested in. I would love to get my hands on several large, ornately decorated bookshelves and buffet tables.

Having been to a few of these sales, I’ve made friends with some of the auction’s employees. They inform me in advance about anything that might interest me. And there is.

I notice Ted, another interior designer, lurking around. He’s asked me out multiple times and doesn’t give up. He’s now walking my way.

“Parker, so good to see you,” he says, getting into my space.

I step back, putting distance between us.

“I didn’t know you attended these events,” I say, circling the table while putting an object between us.

He gives me a smug smile before answering me. “Thinking about changing our design style.”

I want to roll my eyes. I’ve been picking up some of his clients because they like my designs better than his. Like most men, he has a strong desire to win.

“Want to go out tonight?” he asks, moving closer to me. “I would love to pick your brain.”

I avoid eye contact. “Sorry, I can’t, I’m busy.” My phone rings. It’s Elle. I’ll call her back when the auction is over. I put the phone on silent mode and drop it into my purse. “See you, Ted.”

I step outside when the auction is over, feeling ecstatic. I bought two of the three large pieces I was interested in. I even picked up a few smaller items that’ll work in one of the homes I’m working on. I made arrangements for the large pieces to be delivered to my office.

Ted is at the other end of the parking lot. Luckily, I parked my truck on the opposite side. I don’t need another uncomfortable moment with him.

I get in my truck, pull my phone out of my purse, and see that I have several more calls and texts from Elle and some from Catherine. I immediately call Elle, knowing whatever is happening can’t be good. She doesn’t pick up, so I leave a message telling her I’m heading home.

I call Catherine to find out what’s happening. I have a feeling about this. I shouldn’t have muted my phone.

“Where have you been?” Catherine says when she answers.

“What’s wrong? Is Elle okay?”

“She’s fine. Ryan’s been shot.”

My throat catches, and I drop the phone and hold my hand to my mouth. This can’t be happening. Tears fall down my face. Shot?

“Parker, can you hear me?”

I pick my phone back up. “Yes. Is he…”

I can’t even say the word.

“He’s being operated on now. He’s critical.”

I breathe in. My hands are shaking. I need to get it together.

“I’m forty minutes away. I’ll be there as soon as possible.” I hesitate, and then a thought hits me. “Why are you calling me about him?”

“Does it matter? See you at the hospital.”

“Okay,” I say and hang up.

I close my eyes and take a few deep breaths. I need to get my shit together and drive back without getting into an accident. I need to block out any thoughts of Ryan right now. If I keep thinking about him, I won’t make it.

He’ll be fine, though, he’ll be fine, I keep repeating as I start my truck and speed off down the driveway, grasping the steering wheel hard. He can’t die on me. I need to tell him how I feel. I should have talked to him after dinner when I heard about him dating Nancy. I don’t think it’s true. It can’t be.