― James Herbert
Hidden Danger
I was shaken. I don't know how long I crouched under cover searching the cliff for a sign of the sniper but to no avail. He fled.
I could stay here until dark and then crawl back to my SUV, but that presented problems. I'd need lights to drive out of here and that would literally make me a sitting target.
No, I'd have to get back to my vehicle, keeping an eye of the ridge and then drive out of here hell bent for leather. Knowing I was in his gun sights terrified me but also made me angry. He's the coward―he shot Sarah from long distance and now wants to silence me. That isn't going to happen.
I stand up, gun in hand and walk deliberately back to my car, never taking my eyes off the ridge. I drive out way faster than I should but I'll be back and comb every inch of that ridge.
I know where I saw the gun metal glint―I know exactly where he stood. He may have threatened and gotten away again, but now I also know where I stand...
And yeah, I'll be back―he can count on that.
Once I'm clear of the area, I pull over at a service station and text Clare. There's a small Tim Hortons coffee bar inside so I grab a coffee and by the time I've come back she's texted me the address on Main Street where I can meet her in half an hour.
Why is it these burgs always have one main drag and name it Main Street? I shake my head at the absurdity. Whereas the town might be predictable, Clare is the exception.
She's far too beautiful for police work―I know that's politically incorrect to say, but I can't imagine her breaking up a bar fight or cuffing a perp. But she certainly is kind and has rescued me by finding me a place to stay. Yes, I owe her but that's one debt that will be a pleasure to repay.
Clare's waiting to show me the flat she found for me to rent. It’s in town located on the top foor of a beauty salon.
She's standing outside the building dressed in a white sweater and jeans, her bright red hair shining in the sun. Yeah, definitely intimidating with her flawless beauty, and probably out of my league.
"C'mon up and I'll give you a tour," she smiles.
I glance up at the building and it looks decent and clean, so that puts any doubts I had to rest.The loft is actually well furnished and spacious and has a small wooden porch in back with stairs leading down to a small parking lot.
"This is a really nice loft—even better than I anticipated."
"You'll be happy here. Lea keeps the place in good repair and the tenants downstairs close their shop at five so it'll be very quiet at night."
I glance at my watch. "Speaking of time, it's just past five—are you hungry for dinner yet?"
"I'm famished," she laughs, "C'mon, I'll drive to Yins. You're in for a treat—it’s great Chinese food."
"I can't wait. Let me guess—it’s on Main Street too."
"Vey funny, City Boy. You'll be impressed by the food."
I had no doubt of that. I was impressed by everything so far and sharing a meal with her would not be hard.
I was actually looking forward to getting to know her.