Shore to Please Read online

  She was about to hyperventilate until she heard the reporter intone, “Nobody was hurt, but O’Riley understandably was shaken by the incident, as were his colleagues at Gulf Shore Aquarium.”

  The scene shifted to a close-up of his handsome face. He needs to comb his hair, Tara thought inanely.

  “That’s the last thing I expected when I arrived at work this morning,” he said into a cluster of microphones shoved in front of him. “I got out of my Jeep, took a couple steps—and then the driver’s side window just exploded. It didn’t really register at first that someone was shooting at me because I didn’t hear a gunshot. And then another bullet lodged in the door. The person either had bad aim or was just trying to scare me, because I was a sitting duck.”

  “Did you see anyone?”

  “No, unfortunately not.”

  “Then what happened?”

  “I dove forward and rolled when I hit the pavement, and then I half-crawled behind another vehicle. I yanked out my phone and called the police. I don’t think more shots were fired but honestly, I can’t say for sure.”

  The reporter asked him about the bandages on his knee and elbow as Tara winced and wished she was there to see for herself that he was okay.

  “Just a couple souvenirs from hitting the asphalt,” Flipper replied. He flashed the smile that never failed to make Tara’s girl parts cheer. “I’ll be fine. It takes much more than that to slow me down.”

  “Are you worried the shooter will try again?”

  His smile faded. “Of course. I don’t mean to make light of the situation. I’m concerned for my coworkers, too, and for our animals here. Some sicko is taking out his frustrations on us, and we need to stop him before someone is hurt badly.”

  The reporter went on to talk about the threatening letters the aquarium had received and the heightened security there, and then Jo Tompkins addressed a question about the police investigation.

  “We’re still pursuing various leads,” she answered. “We don’t have any solid evidence yet that the letters and this shooting are related, but common sense would indicate they are. Our department is working diligently to catch whoever’s responsible. If anyone has information that possibly could help us, no matter how inconsequential it might seem, I urge them to call me. It could be a matter of life and death.” Her phone number scrolled along the bottom of the screen.

  Wesley appeared on camera next to recount how animal rights activists had targeted the aquarium in the past. Tara held her breath, expecting him to mention her group, but he didn’t. The director went on to explain why GSA’s dolphins and manatees couldn’t be released back to the wild and promised they were receiving top-notch care and plenty of love.

  Tara watched the rest of the report as she tried to steady her nerves and then grabbed her phone and dialed Flipper’s number. The rings went unanswered until voice mail kicked in.

  “Hey, Flipper, it’s Tara. I just saw the news on TV and…well, I’m afraid for you. I can’t believe anyone would shoot at you. I just called to tell you to stay safe and that I hope Jo catches the bastard who’s doing this very soon. If you want to call me back, I’ll be here. Take care, okay?”

  She flopped back on her couch and stared at the television, not really registering what the news anchor was saying about a four-vehicle wreck on Interstate 4. Tara looked down at her shaking hands and took several deep breaths. She glanced at her phone again—ring, damn it!—and then called another number. When Larry answered, he made it clear she was one of the last people he wanted to talk to.

  “If you’re trying to make amends, don’t bother, Tara. As far as I’m concerned, you and I are finished.”

  “I don’t have time for your pettiness right now. I just saw on News 13 that someone shot at Flipper in the aquarium parking lot this morning.”

  “Yeah? Did they hit him?”

  Larry sounded gleeful at the prospect, and Tara wished she could wrap her hands around his throat and squeeze until he choked out an apology. She managed to hold in a scathing reply.

  “Luckily, no. Do you have any idea who might have done this? Because if you do, you need to call the police detective in charge of this case and stop this madness once and for all.”

  “Are you accusing me of something? Because if you are—”

  “I’m not saying you had anything to do with this, so simmer down. This isn’t about you, Larry, or about me, either, for that matter. I don’t give a whit right now whether we agree with GSA’s policies or not. Lives are at stake here. Promise me you’ll call Jo Tompkins if you think of anything that can help her investigation.”

  “Fine. Give me her number.”

  Tara ignored his impatient tone and recited the digits.

  “Personally, I couldn’t care less what happens to your boyfriend, but this whole sordid situation gives animal rights activists a bad name. That’s the only reason I’m agreeing to call that cop if I come across anything. I’m certainly not doing it for you, Tara.”

  “Fine. Whatever. I’m not sure where all your anger is coming from, but that’s neither here nor there at this point.”

  “The fact that you don’t understand why I’m so pissed speaks volumes. Just so you know, the members are having an emergency meeting tomorrow night to decide what to do about all of this.”

  “About all of what?”

  “You playing kissy face with that dolphin torturer. Are you going to do the right thing and resign from SWADS, or do we have to kick you out?”

  “Let me remind you that I started that organization. And that I’ve worked diligently to spread our message and try to bring about changes in the aquarium industry.”

  “You’ve damaged our credibility, don’t you see that? I’ve heard from at least ten people who say they’ll quit if you don’t step down.”

  The slow burn of Tara’s temper was seconds from igniting, but losing control would accomplish nothing. She counted to five before answering.

  “If those people have an issue with me, they should discuss it with me instead of going to you behind my back. We’re all adults here. At least I thought we were.”

  “Save your indignation for somebody who cares,” Larry replied. “And don’t bother trying to crash our meeting because we won’t let you in. We don’t need you anymore. In fact, regardless of what happens tomorrow night, I’m starting my own activist group. And I intend to go after Gulf Shore Aquarium with everything I’ve got. When I get through with them, no self-respecting person will want to be caught within fifty yards of that place.”

  * * * *

  As the evening wore on and her phone stayed silent, Tara had just about given up hope that Flipper would call her back. And that’s why she jumped when the ringing started. She didn’t want to admit how on edge she was. Hearing Flipper’s voice helped soothe her, at least for the time being.

  “I’m fine,” he assured her. “Wesley hired a bunch of big, burly dudes to act as bodyguards for me, the other trainers, and aquarium management. One of them is sitting in a car in front of my cottage right now, and the other is camped out on my couch.”

  “How long will they be staying with you?”

  “Until Jo catches the bad guy.”

  “I wish there was something I could do to help.”

  “I don’t know what it would be.”

  Tara was looking for an opening, any hint he still cared about her, but so far he’d given her nothing. Perhaps he really and truly was done with her. She thought she might be sick.

  “If I can change the subject, what was the fallout over that Facebook picture?” she asked. “Are you in trouble at work?”

  “People are ticked off but don’t seem to be holding a grudge. I guess my getting shot at made them sympathetic or at least convinced them I haven’t joined the opposition. How about you? Has that tool Larry rallied the troops against you?”

  “He made it clear when I spoke to him earlier that I’m already persona non grata. They’ll make it official tomorrow night
.”

  “That sucks, Tara. Don’t those losers know you’re the lifeblood of that organization?”

  “If I have to go it alone, so be it. I’m weary of the infighting anyway. And now with this shooting…well, it’s just not worth it any longer.”

  “Are you saying your activist days are over?”

  Tara felt a twinge of guilt about deflating Flipper’s hopeful mood, but it couldn’t be helped.

  “I know you’d prefer I quit, but my conscience won’t let me stay silent. Speaking of that, I’ve committed to that debate Helen Holt and the TV people in Gulf Shore are putting together. Any word on who my opponent will be? Helen wants Wesley but said she’ll settle for your boss.”

  Flipper sighed. “I haven’t heard. We’ve been focused on more important matters lately.”

  Tara closed her eyes against the sting of his barb. “Yes, well, I’m sure you’re awfully busy so I won’t keep you any longer. I just wanted to make sure you’re okay and that you’re being protected.”

  “Tara.” She held her breath. “I appreciate that you called to check on me. And I hope you’ll watch your back.”

  “You think I’m in danger?”

  “I don’t trust Larry what’s-his-name or your ex-boyfriend or his girlfriend and her crazy-ass husband. Just be careful.”

  Tara had to ask. “Does that mean you still care about what happens to me?”

  “Of course I do. Despite everything I…well, I miss you.”

  “I miss you, too. I feel like I have few, if any, friends left.”

  “It breaks my heart to hear you say that. I wish…”

  Tara’s heart high-jumped into her throat. “You wish what?”

  “Never mind. It’s not important.”

  “Yes, it is. I want to hear what you were going to say. Please.”

  “I wish circumstances were different and we could be together.”

  Fight for him! her heart hollered. This may be your last chance.

  “What’s more important, what other people think or what we feel for each other?” she pressed.

  “A relationship won’t last without mutual respect.” His mulish tone wasn’t encouraging.

  “Just because I disagree with your employer’s policies doesn’t mean I don’t consider you an honorable man. You’re everything Steven wasn’t and never will be. I see that so clearly now. If James Carville and Mary Matalin can make it work, why can’t we?”

  “He’s the staunch Democrat and she’s the Republican mouthpiece, correct?”

  “You know who they are?”

  “Uh, yeah. I wasn’t raised under a rock. They went head-to-head as strategists during the Clinton-Bush presidential race. Are they still a couple? I haven’t seen them on TV much lately.”

  “They’ve been married for more than twenty years and have two daughters. So I guess you could say they’ve made it work.”

  “I doubt it’s been easy.”

  “She says they get past their differences by avoiding political discussions at home, but I’m sure their relationship has been tested numerous times over the years. It just goes to show that if you want something bad enough, you find a way to make it happen.”

  “And is that what you want? For you and I to figure out a way to be together?”

  Tara’s pulse pounded in her ears. “I’d at least like to give it another try. We don’t know each other well enough yet to talk about anything long-term. But I really care about you, Flipper, and you’re good for me. You make me laugh and not take myself so seriously. I think we could make each other happy.”

  “I’d like to believe that. I’ve been miserable since I walked out of your place. I can’t stop wondering whether you ache for me as much as I ache for you.”

  Happy tears streamed down Tara’s cheeks, and it was all she could do to stop herself from heading to Gulf Shore in the next five minutes.

  “I’ll be busy with work tomorrow, but I could drive over your way the day after.”

  “No. That’s a really bad idea.”

  He sounded so adamant that Tara’s elation dissolved in an instant. “O-okay, then, I…guess I’ll let you go,” she managed.

  “What? No, wait! I didn’t mean it like that. I’ve got a target on my back, and I’m not putting you in the crosshairs, too. Maybe I can come there, if I can shake my bodyguards.”

  “They’re protecting you for a reason, Flipper. Let them do their job.”

  “I wish I could send them to Orlando to watch over you.”

  “Why would I need bodyguards?”

  “The friend of my enemy is my enemy. Once we go public as a couple…”

  “I hadn’t thought of that. Terrific. Now I’ll be jumping at every noise I hear tonight.”

  “I’m not trying to scare you, honey. But you can’t let your guard down. Take basic precautions and call 911 if you notice anything suspicious.”

  “I wish you were here with me right now.”

  “I can hit the road and be there before you know it.”

  Yes. “No, I’m being silly. I’ll be fine.” I hope.

  “Are you sure?”

  No. “Yes. But I would like to see you as soon as we can arrange it. If you’re worried about me coming there, we could meet between Gulf Shore and Orlando. Maybe Clermont? Or somewhere along Interstate 75?”

  “That’s not a bad idea. Let me see what I can work out. I’ll call you tomorrow, okay?”

  “Okay. In the meantime, I’ll be thinking about you.” Dirty thoughts. Lots of them.

  “Me too, baby. Me too.”

  Chapter 19

  Dani had been a nervous wreck all day, waiting to hear from Evan after he finished at the veterinary office. She’d already lost her heart to the little Chihuahua they’d named Taco. The dog was gaining much-needed weight, and the abrasions on her skin were healing. She looked adorable, especially after Dani took her to the groomer and bought her a pink T-shirt that read, “Rescued and loved.”

  “You okay?”

  Dani turned at the sound of the familiar voice.

  “Hey, Shelby. I’m fine. Just anxious to find out what the vet said about Taco.”

  “She’s such a good little dog. I can’t believe someone isn’t moving heaven and earth to find a baby doll like that.”

  “I know. It’s like she’s been on her best behavior so we’ll keep her. As if she has to worry about us not wanting her. Even Ozzie seems to be getting attached. Every time I go to the door with a leash in my hand he hollers, ‘Want to go out?’ And if Taco barks he yells, ‘What? Stop it!’ Cracks me up.”

  “What does the dog do when he talks to her?”

  “The first time she heard Ozzie make a noise she barked her head off. But now she pretty much ignores him. That doesn’t stop him from trying to get her attention, though. He throws food out of his cage onto the floor to lure her closer and then slides down the bars like they’re a firehouse pole and tries to nip her.”

  Shelby laughed. “Never a dull moment at your place, is there?”

  “Not anymore.” Dani smiled. “It’s a mini zoo. But we love it.”

  “I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you. Let me know what happens. Speaking of updates, how’s your father?”

  “Much better. He’s back on his feet and actually listening to Mom when she nags him to slow down.”

  “Are they getting along any better?”

  “Surprisingly, yes. They still grate on each other’s nerves sometimes—that’s a permanent condition, I’m afraid—but Dad’s finally letting her know he appreciates all the things she does for him. And that’s gone a long way toward softening her attitude. He’s even agreed to take her out to eat at least once a week, which for my father is a huge concession. When he opened his mouth to complain about the expense, she pointed out that if he cut back on his beer and snacks, they’d save enough money to afford moderately priced restaurants. My parents aren’t into anything fancy, so that works for them.”

  “What’s their ide
a of fancy?”

  “Paying more than fifteen bucks for an entrée. And they don’t order adult beverages, appetizers, or dessert except on the rare special occasion. Hey, listen, I hate to cut this short but I need to get my fanny over to Manatee Haven. Aaron West called Toni and tattled on me the last time I was late relieving him. What held me up was a heatstroke case. We moved the little girl to the air-conditioned theater, and I had to stay with her and her family until the paramedics arrived.”

  “And that jackass Aaron had the nerve to report you to the boss?”

  “Yes. Toni was ticked off and told him so. But he still squawks when someone’s even a couple minutes late. He doesn’t make any effort to get along with his coworkers. He acts like he’s better than the rest of us, even though his job performance leaves a lot to be desired. Flipper let him have it a couple weeks ago because the twit just stood there while these high school kids hung over the railing at Dolphin Inlet and harassed Calypso and Aquarius. Flipper mentioned it to Toni, and she wrote Aaron up. He’s been bad-mouthing Flipper ever since.”

  “Has Toni heard him?” Shelby asked.

  “Probably not. She wouldn’t stand for it if she did.”

  “Maybe you should tell her.”

  “You want me to tattle?”

  “Given the threats against Flipper and then the shooting, that’s the kind of thing security needs to know about.”

  “You really think somebody who works here would go to that extreme? I mean, Aaron’s an absolute jerk, but he doesn’t seem dangerous.”

  “I can’t imagine it, either, but why take the chance?”

  “You’re right. I’ll let Toni know. Talk to you later. Let’s have lunch soon.”

  “Sounds great. See you.”

  As Dani made her way to her next hour-long assignment, she checked her watch and wondered why she hadn’t heard from Evan. Could he still be at the vet’s office? And if so, did that mean he’d run into complications with Taco? She didn’t have a chance to mull that further because a crowd had gathered around the manatee habitat to watch a trainer feed Tillie and Tully.