Page 52 of Guarded Deputy
“Don’t be embarrassed,” Andrea says.
“Right,” I say flatly.
They don’t know that Nate and I kissed, and this could be a super strange headwear option.
As soon as people see me, their eyebrows lift and look at me as if I’ve lost my mind. I haven’t yet, but I’m about to. Embarrassing myself isn’t a new feeling, but this crosses the line intokill me nowterritory.
My eyes remain on the ground as I walk toward the basketball court where the DJ stand is and pray no one makes a big deal about this, but that’s like praying for snow in South Florida. I can’t blame them. Why in the world would I be wearing a kids cop hat?
Sweat rolls down the back of my neck as I feel eyes on me. For all I know, people think I’m going to break out in dance while imitating one of the Village People. It’s the only logical explanation for me wearing the hat unless you know that I’m hiding my face.
“Are you ready, kiddos? You know the rules, once the music stops, so do you or you take a seat.” Dani talks into the microphone, totally in her element.
The kids cheer and urge her to begin while I stand back and watch with a smile. The festival has been a huge success, and while I’m not sure how much money we’ve raised, it’s going to be a huge help to the school fund.
“Lizzy?” Ellen says beside me.
“Huh? Yeah?” I turn to look at her.
“What are you wearing?” Her narrowed eyes judge me. “Never mind.” She shakes her head as if it’s too much trouble to deal with me. “It’s your turn to monitor the art center.”
“Oh, darn, right. Sorry about that, I had a…situation.” Nothing is worse than giving Ellen the opportunity to signal that I’m not doing my job—not even a rash on my face. I race to the table where kids are painting so that the teacher there can take a break.
“Hey, sorry about being late. You’re free to go and enjoy the festival,” I tell the teacher and take her place, looking at what the students are painting on canvases.
“That looks wonderful,” I tell an older student, who is painting a detailed mermaid. “Impressive.”
“Thanks, Ms. Andrews.” The girl smiles over her shoulder. “I want to take art classes.”
“You should.”
I move on to another student but hear a snicker and look toward the person who’s laughing. My eyebrow arches, and I cross my arms in my best attempt to seem intimidating.
“I’ve had women tell me they like me, but none has ever gone to the extent of showing me by dressing up in uniform.” A crooked smile appears on Nate’s face.
My arms drop, and I fight the urge to cover my face from the blush that creeps up my cheeks.
“Funny.” I shake my head, using an unimpressed tone to hide my embarrassment.
“Here you are.” My mom walks up to us, eyeing Nate. “Why are you wearing that?” She points to my head.
“I got a rash from the face paint, so I’m using the hat to shield from the sun.”
“Did you put anything on it?” Her brows furrow with concern.
“Yeah, Nate, uh, had some ointment that I applied.” I cut my eyes to him, who’s watching us with an amused grin.
“That’s so nice of you.” My mom smiles at him, and I’m ready to shove her away because I know that look. And she already mentioned the rumors to Nate so there’s no telling how far she’ll go now.
“Just helping a friend out.” Nate smiles, his dimples making an appearance.
“A friend.” My mom scoffs. “Not from what I’ve heard.”
“Mom.” I grab her arm and drag her away. “Watch the kids for me a sec?” I look over my shoulder, and Nate nods with a chuckle.
“Please don’t make this a big deal, Mom,” I whisper as I stand with her a few feet away.
“A big deal about what?” she asks innocently, batting her eyelashes.