Marta had been in town a little more than a week now. Keeping her head low, while Abernathy helped her to gather any intel he deemed worth her time. She had visited Cecils bar a few times, coming to the conclusion that he was not a threat. She’d poped by the farmers market one day, watching Nero from afar.
He was a confident guy, that much was clear. Whoever came to his stall- man, woman,child received the same focused attention from him. His familiar never went far from him, content to stay under the table and snooze. That was until 2 women showed up. Abernathy had pointed them out at the hotel where they were staying. One of them was part of the family who owned the place. She noticed when they approached the stall Nero changed. Softer mannerisms, lingering glances at the one with tight curly hair.
“Interesting” she whispered. Lia perked up, scenting into the air from her position around Martas shoulder. “I think it’s time” she kicked off the oak tree she hid under, and left.
“I don’t get why you’re dragging me along” Cecil whined, forehead resting against the car window. The mention of movie night hadn’t thrilled him. But Nero mentioned Abi would also be attending with them. So reluctantly he had agreed. If not just to gossip some more with the new friend.
“Winnie is more comfortable around Abi. And I’ll be like a third wheel so consider this a double date” Nero chuckled, reaching behind to give Taylor a quick scratch for being such a good boy.
“I’ve already dated you once thanks...” Cecil teased. It was short lived though, his interest turning out the window again as they climbed the hill. “You smell that?” he mumbled, back straightening.
Nero opened his window further and sniffed the air. “Smoke?” he questioned.
