The Thing About Trouble (Crystal Lake 1)

“What?” Cam’s head snapped around so damn fast, he saw stars. Nash knew he nailed it, and Cam swore underneath his breath.

“Jesus, Cam. I thought you were seeing Pia Zarcosa.”

“I was.”

“Honey said you guys went out last night.”

“We did.”

Nash started walking again and opened his mouth to say something, but Cam stopped him cold. “I told you I don’t want to get into it. I know she’s all wrong for me, and she’s nothing but trouble. I’ve got a kid to worry about now, and Tawny should be my focus. I get that. Hell, it’s all I’ve thought about since last night.”

Nash opened his mouth again but barely managed to get one word out because Cam was on fire.

“I know what you’re going to say, but she’s not the woman most people think she is. She can be, I’ve seen her in action, but it’s an act. She’s real good with Tawny, and she’s smart. And…” He stopped while he was ahead, because the hole he’d dug was deep.

Nash cleared his throat and pointed. “I was going to say there’s Mom and Dad.”

Shit. Cam glared at his brother before turning toward his parents. They were holding hands, walking along the boardwalk, and hadn’t spied them yet. Behind them was a young couple, and behind them he spied the man from last night.

Instantly, his body reacted on some primitive level that made him want to bang his fists against his chest and issue a challenge. Cam studied him. He was tall and built, but so was Cam, and he could take him if he had to.

“Do you know that guy behind Mom?”

Nash followed his gaze and slowly shook his head. “Nope. Never seen him before.” The baby fussed, and Nash settled the soother between his lips, instantly sending Gabriel back into la-la land.

“Why?” Nash asked.

“No reason.” The man was alone. He looked as if he was searching for something, or someone, and then turned around and headed the other way. It was at about this point their parents spotted them and walked over. They’d only gotten back from their vacation the night before, and Cam was surprised to see them out.

His mom smiled up at them, her face full of warmth and love and something else he couldn’t quite put his finger on. His dad looked the same as always, a handsome older version of his sons, but there was a worn-out edge to him, and Cam was guessing he’d have rather stayed at home with his feet propped up in front of the TV than stroll along a boardwalk full of screaming kids.

“What a nice surprise,” Lisa said softly before looking down and tucking in the baby. “Gabriel has grown.” She stepped back. “Where’s Tawny?”

“With Honey. She took her to get her face painted.”

He saw the concern in his mother’s eyes and the questions she wanted to ask but didn’t, in case he took offense. He gave her a hug.

“Things are good, Mom. She’s settled in and has Mrs. Eddy wrapped around her little finger.”

“Does she?” Lisa Booker looked relieved. “That’s good to know. I’m glad you’re making things work.”

“You finish up that big project?” His father’s voice was a little rough, as if his throat was dry. “Out at the Barnes place?”

“I did. We came in under budget and a few days early.”

His dad smiled and nodded. “Good. That’s real good, son. I’m proud of you, Cameron, and you too, Nashville.” His voice shook a bit, and Cam glanced at Nash. Their father was usually the gruff type. This wasn’t him.

“We just popped out for some fresh air, but I think we’re going to head home. The last leg of the trip was a long one, and your father and I are still a little tired.” Lisa Booker threaded her arm through her husband’s. “Don’t forget Wednesday-night dinner. I expect both you boys there.”

Cam watched his parents walk away and frowned. “Did something feel off to you?”

Nash slowly nodded. “Yeah.”

The sun was shining, and a warm breeze spilled across the boardwalk, pushing leaves and sand, but Cam shivered and, still cranky and restless, turned in a full circle.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” he muttered, eyes narrowed as he looked across the park.

“Isn’t that Blue Barnes with Honey?” Nash asked.