Free Love's Deception by Adrianne Byrd Page A

get going.”
    “You don’t have to go now.” Nathan feared that he’d hurt his feelings somehow, but was at a loss as to how to mend them.
    “Don’t worry about me. I have a ton of things to do at the office.”
    “How is that new job going anyway? What’s the name of the company?”
    Smokey laughed, then landed another hard slap across Nathan’s back. “What’s this? A sudden interest in corporate America?”
    “Heaven forbid. I’m just trying to keep you from walking out the door mad.”
    They stood smiling at each other.
    “All right. I admit I’m a little concerned about what’s going on between you and Travis. I just don’t want to see you get hurt.”
    “I’m a grown man now, Pop.”
    “You can still get hurt.”
    “I guess that’s a chance I’m going to have to take. Don’t worry,” Nathan said, returning the affectionate slap on the back. “I’m not trying to replace you. You’ll always be my father. You’re the one that has always been here for me.”
    A genuine smile lit Smokey’s eyes. “Thanks, son. I needed to hear that.”
    “Good. Then what do you say we get together for dinner tonight? And don’t tell me about your workaholic schedule. Surely you can squeeze in time to have dinner with your son.”
    “All right. You’re on. How about we meet at Justin’s. It’s not too far from the office. Say around eight?”
    “Eight it is.”

Chapter 12
    L iz spent the day thankful Carissa hadn’t come into the office. Since she hadn’t had time to find a new day care, she had no choice but to bring Darius to work with her. As usual, he remained quiet and stayed out of the way for most of the day. Whenever a coworker attempted to speak to him, he’d retreat behind his mother’s chair and refuse to speak.
    Liz was at a loss to explain his behavior.
    “Well, he seems to be a sweet boy,” Adelle replied, shaking her head. “He’ll grow out of it. I know my son was shy at his age. By the time he reached five, he’d turned into a hellion.”
    “Darius is five.” Liz exhaled.”
    “Oh.”
    “But maybe you’re right. He can still grow out of it,” Liz said, looking up to her coworker and friend. “There are days I have my doubt. I wonder if it’s because there isn’t a father figure in his life.”
    “Now, honey, don’t go blaming yourself. Everything will work out. Take my word on it.” Adelle patted her hand and strode off.
    Darius eased from behind her chair and returned to the coloring book spread out at the end of her desk. Sadly, she watched him out of the corner of her eye. Maybe she should check into taking him to a child psychologist.
    Expelling a frustrated sigh, she wondered where on earth she’d find money for that in her budget. Lord, she was tired. Between her job, her grandmother and Darius, the candle she burned at both ends had finally met in the center.
    “Well, baby, it’s almost five o’clock. Mommy has to run these reports over to Hunter’s secretary, then we can go home. Can you sit here and be a good boy until I get back?”
    Darius looked up and nodded. “Are we still going to McDonald’s on the way home?”
    “Yes, sir. A promise is a promise,” she said, standing. “I’ll be right back.”
    Quietly, Darius began putting his crayons back into the box. But no sooner had his mother turned the corner than a heavy baritone voice caused him to jump out of his skin.
    “Hello there, little fella,” Nathan greeted him,smiling down at the boy. “Can you tell me where I can find a Ms. Townsend?”
    The boy just stared up at him.
    “I was told her office was up here.” Nathan frowned. “Do you happen to know who I’m talking about?”
    Still there was no response.
    “Okay.” Nathan rubbed the side of his head to ensure he hadn’t grown an extra head. “I bet your mommy taught you not to talk to strangers, didn’t she?”
    To his amazement, the boy nodded.
    “Well, that’s a good rule. I’m sure your mommy is very proud of you for