Flushed and struggling not to be furious, she looked over at Beckett. “I’ve nearly got it.”
“Let me take a look.”
“I’ve nearly got it,” she repeated.
He just hunkered down, took the wrench out of her hand. “Looks like you need a washer. I probably have something that’ll fit it out in the truck. I’ll need to turn the water off for a few minutes.”
“I know how to turn the water off.”
“Okay, why don’t you go do that while I get the washer?”
He straightened, drew her to her feet.
He hadn’t shaved that morning, she noted, plus his hair needed trimming. And he smelled of sawdust. Which all added up, in her mind, to smug, let me handle that for you, little lady, male.
“Did Laurie call you?”
“No. Why?”
Clare just shook her head and went out to turn off the water.
So it needed a washer, she thought as she watched him quickly, competently make the repair. She’d have figured it out—and she knew where to buy a stupid washer for the stupid pipe.
“That should do it. Let me turn the water back on and—”
“I’ll turn it on.”
He only lifted his brows when she swung around and walked out.
He ran the water in the sink, checked the pipes, packed up her tools. “That’ll cost ya.” In a casual move, he tipped up her chin, kissed her. “Paid in full. Why didn’t you call me?”
“Because I was fixingit myself.”
He searched her face, deep blue eyes puzzled and patient. “Are you pissed at me or the pipe?”
“I’m—” She made herself stop short of the fresh rant building in her throat. It was hardly Beckett’s fault. “It’s been a crappy day, that’s all. I appreciate the help.”
“Anytime. Speaking of which, I can hang with the boys after school so you can give Hope a hand settling in.”
“Is this place bugged?” she demanded. “Is there a town intercom running from here to the inn?”
“Not that I know of, but I saw Avery when I went over to get a panini for lunch.”
“And I told her I was going to call Mazie.”
“So I have to ask again if you’re pissed at me.”
“No, why would I be?” But she ground the words out because she was, for no good reason she could name. “I just don’t want you to feel like you’re on call for repairs, child care, and whatever else might come up. I know how to work these things out. I’ve been working these things out for years.”
“No question about that.” He spoke coolly, watching her face. “Is there any reason you can’t take an assist when it’s offered, or is it just an assist from me in particular?”
“No. Yes. Oh for—” She pressed her fingers to her eyes. “God, crappy day, starting with dragging three irritable boys to the dentist.”
“Cavities?”
“No, so it could’ve been worse. Fine, I’m sure the boys would be happy to see you, if you’re sure you’ve got the time.”
“I can clear my busy social schedule.”
“Um, I’ll pick them up, get them started on their homework. I promised to make tacos if they were good at the dentist, which they weren’t particularly. But we’ll give that a pass as they’re quick, and easier for me.”
“How about I come by about four? Does that work?”
“Yes, thanks.”
“See you then.”
“Beckett. I’m sorry I snapped at you, and I do appreciate you fixing the leak.”
“No problem.” He started out, stopped. “You know, Clare, being able to do everything doesn’t mean you have to.”
Maybe not, she thought. But she didn’t want to forget how.
RYDER WATCHED BECKETT packing it up for the day. He knew when his brother was in a mood, and decided to poke at it to get to the root.
“You know, we could use a hand in the shop.”
“My talents are required elsewhere.”
“Babysitting. She’s got you whipped, bro.”
Beckett just shot up his middle finger.
“I guess you’ve got to make nice if you want some touch since you had that fight at Vesta.”
“What fight?” Now he looked over, and with a scowl. “We didn’t have a fight.”
“That’s not what I heard.”
“We had a discussion. If people can’t tell the difference—shit.” He kicked the front tire of the truck. “Maybe she can’t tell the difference. What do I know?”
“Trying to figure her out’s your first mistake. Nobody figures women out.”
“Something’s up with her. She nearly took my head off when I fixed a leak over at TTP. It’s Lizzy, that’s what it is.”
“Clare thinks you’re making time with your ghost?”