Mind Over Marriage by Daniels, Rebecca
Prologue
Thursday, 10:01 a.m.
“Hi, Mr. Reed, this is Barbara Reynolds from Continental Casual. Isn’t this rain something? Hope you’re managing to stay dry. Just wanted to call to remind you your policy is coming due next week and I’d like to set up a time when we can discuss a renewal. Call me when you can. I’m at 805-555-8100. Bye.”
Friday, 2:33 p.m.
“Hey, Coop. It’s Dale McCannon. Time to renegotiate the lease again. Hope the place is still standing. Give me a call—you know the number.”
Tuesday, 6:56 p.m.
“Cooper, hello, it’s Morris Chandler. Been a long time, I know. I tried the house, but must have missed you—left a message on the machine, though. I was hoping I’d catch you at work, but no doubt this storm has you grounded. Coop, I...I need to talk with you—don’t know quite how to say this. Something’s happened—to Kelsey, I mean. She’s in the hospital, Coop and...and, well, she needs you. Please call me as soon as you can, as soon as you get in. If there isn’t someone at the house, I’ll be at Community General in Santa Ynez. Please, Coop, it’s really important.”
Wednesday, 7:55 a.m.
“It’s Mo Chandler, Coop—looks like I missed you again. I’m still at the hospital in Santa Ynez, Community General. I could really use you up here, Coop, as soon as possible. I know it’s a lot to ask, but I’m desperate.”
Wednesday, 11:27 a.m.
“Mo again. Coop, it’s bad here. Kelsey needs you, Coop. Please come. Please.”