Chaos and Control(82)

“Now that we’re speaking, does that mean I get my escort back for walks home from work?” I ask, piling a stack of records into a bin.

“I always made sure you got home safe,” Preston answers.

“You did? How?”

“I was there. Just kept my distance.”

“Very interesting, Preston-who-is-sneaky.”

“Stop flirting and move those boxes,” Bennie shouts from behind the counter. She giggles at herself, which leads to a fit of coughing. Preston and I both watch to make sure she’s okay. After she swallows down some water, she gives us a thumbs-up and a roll of her eyes.

“She’s a bossy shit, isn’t she?” I ask.

“She’s just the boss.”

“Wow. Where are all these people from?” I ask Bennie as she rings up another Vinyl customer. The Strokes play over the speakers, giving the store a great energy.

“Preston printed up flyers and left them around town and in Franklin. He’s also in charge of the store’s social media, so word spread that way. I have a banner in front of the building pulling in locals who pass by. I don’t see how anyone could resist at least having a peek.”

She hands the man his change and wishes him a great day.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen this many people in the store at once,” I marvel.

“It’s great, isn’t it? Preston’s had to restock furniture pieces just since this morning. Thanks for helping out, Wren. I know you have to work tonight, so I appreciate it.”

“No worries. It’s just another crazy Saturday in Crowley,” I reply, crossing my eyes and making a silly face at her.

Preston passes by, carrying a large bookcase like it’s made of cardboard.

“Watch out or your face will stick that way,” he says.

I stick my tongue out at him and go back to helping customers.

I’m in the middle of locating vintage Johnny Cash for someone when I feel a tap on my shoulder. “I’ll be with you in just a second,” I say, holding up one finger.

I find the album I’m looking for and hold it out to the girl, who takes it with a shy smile.

“Now what can I help you with?” I spin to find Sawyer, in uniform, his shoulders square, his face serious. My heart drops into my stomach. “What’s wrong?”

“Can we talk somewhere?” he asks, looking around the crowded store.

“Yeah, sure.”

I take off toward the storage closet and Sawyer follows. When we are inside, I lean against a stack of crates and cross my arms.

“Dylan was released yesterday,” he says, watching me closely for a reaction. I nod. “He has no registered vehicle, no credit cards. There’s no way to track this guy, Wren.”

“I know.” My pulse thunders in my ears as I stare down at the floor. “So now what?”

“Now,” Sawyer says, stepping to me and lifting my chin. “Now, we are more careful. Don’t go anywhere alone. Use common sense. At least until I find him. Do you think he’s coming to Crowley?”

I shake my head. “I thought he was. But now, I honestly have no idea. The arrest could have deterred him. Maybe he’s coming here. Maybe he’s headed back to New York. I wish I knew.”

“Stay safe until we know something. If this guy knows what’s good for him, he’ll carry his ass back up north.” Sawyer gives me a grin and flexes his biceps.

I laugh and feel a little lighter. “Yes, once word gets out about those guns, he’ll be running for the hills.”

A crackling voice comes over his radio, and he tilts his head to listen to the report.

“Well, I gotta get back. Duty calls.”

When Sawyer is gone, I take a few minutes to gather myself before heading back out into the store. It’s hard to stay focused on customers when I know that Dylan is a free man. Regardless, I push down my fear and focus on helping Bennie and Preston.

Around four o’clock, the crowd has dissipated, and I head upstairs to start getting ready for work. I take my time in the shower, scrubbing at my skin and shaving everywhere. The water is still a little gray from the lavender dye Bennie help put in my hair yesterday. I towel off, slather on my lotion, and stand in front of my closet.

Even after a long day in the store, I’m invigorated and feeling a little feisty. I decide on a jean skirt, a black tank with a crochet cutout in the back, and my trusty boots. I line my eyes in black, swipe on some mascara and lip gloss, and I’m ready to go.

Bennie comes in around five. She looks completely exhausted as she enters my room and sits on the bed.

“What a day, huh?” she says.

“Yeah. I bet you’re exhausted.”

“I am definitely looking forward to sleepy time.”

I sit next to her and lace up my boots. “Good thing I’ve caught my second wind. Still have eight hours of work ahead of me.”

“Enjoy it while you’re young, kid. Before you know it, you’ll be taking afternoon naps and getting winded after two flights of stairs.”

“I doubt it’s that bad, old lady. Did you need anything before I go?”

“I never thanked you for reconciling with Preston. I’m so glad you two are together again. It feels like all is right in the world.”

I smile at her. “He’s amazing.”