The Unsuspecting Heiress

By Sandra S. Kerns

Two lost souls. One determined adversary. Astonishing ramifications.
Bess, a young woman with a retro style all her own, alone in the world following the death of her parents is searching for answers to a past kept hidden from her.
Ryder, a man needing a purpose while adjusting to injuries received during his military service, returns to the hometown he couldn’t wait to leave.
Finding work at a retro diner after relocating to Colorado thrills Bess as it fits her style and her experience. It also allows her to get to know people easier. The handsome man with a service dog who sits at the end of the counter is a challenge, but one she’s happy to take. Well, until she realizes he suspects her of being a gold-digger.
When Ryder tells Tres Masters that a waitress at the diner is possibly after the estate he was assigned to guard until the owner’s last wishes are realized, he isn’t pleased with the outcome. Tres tells him to get closer to her. The last thing he needs to deal with is a woman. Then again, if she’s after the estate it could hurt the only people, besides his brother, he considers family.
Will the two find what they seek or will danger from the past put their lives in danger? The Unsuspecting Heiress is the 5th book in Sandra S. Kerns' Master Security series. If you like upbeat, retro heroines and stoic, wounded heroes who still won’t give up, pre-order The Unsuspecting Heiress today and be the first to cruise through this cool read!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sandra S. Kerns
• Release date: Oct 23, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463532904

Sandra S. Kerns

Sandra writes romantic suspense. She enjoys speaking to writer's groups as well as libraries and reader groups. An award-winning author, she has no time to rest on her laurels. To keep her readers happy she tries to publish at least 4 novels each year and usually another Christmas novella at the end of the year. For inspiration she looks out at the Rocky Mountains from her back patio or watches the waves when she visits Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Book preview

The Unsuspecting Heiress

Researching the family tree could be dangerous.

A Master Security Novel

by

Sandra S. Kerns

Copyright © 2018 Sandra S. Kerns

Smashwords Edition

All rights reserved.

Editor: Big Sister Edits, LLC

Cover design by Itsy Design

Cover photos courtesy of santiagophotography.net and romancenovelcovers.com

This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

License Notes

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~~~~

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to veterans who have been wounded in the service of our country. They often don’t get the help they need and deserve. This dedication is to let them know we appreciate the sacrifices they and their families have made, and pray for their healing and comfort.

I would also like to thank all of the diligent wait and kitchen staff who tirelessly deal with sometimes frustrating customers. Thanks for the smiles and wonderful meals.

~~~~

Chapter One

Bess smiled as she handed the customer his change. It was good to see you all again, Chance. You take care of that beautiful family.

You don’t have to worry about that, Marley Dugan said hugging her husband. I got the best man in Braedon’s Edge when I lassoed this one. Unfortunately, sweetie, he doesn’t have any brothers or I’d introduce you.

Thanks, but I’m good, Bess said laughing as the family turned to the door.

Chance motioned for his young son to step back beside him as he held the door open for an older couple. Bess grinned as she realized Marley wasn’t far from the truth that he was the best man in town. Although, it was doubtful Bess had met them all having just moved to town recently. She also knew there were several contenders for the title. All of them were married too. Not that she was looking for a husband. She was perfectly happy with her life.

Right. Your life’s perfect. That’s why you woke up with an overwhelming sense of doom at four this morning. Come on. Why are you procrastinating?

The nudge from her conscience gave her a moment of pause. A moment was all she could allow as she had customers to deal with. She walked over to the couple Chance had held the door for and smiled.

"Two for lunch?

Rather than answer, the older woman stared at her with wide eyes before she reached up and covered her mouth. Then she grasped the arm of the man beside her. Bess became concerned she might be having a heart attack and reached out grasping her elbow.

Are you okay?

The woman’s eyes grew wider at the question. Bess hadn’t thought it possible.

Tom, it’s Miss Constance.

The sense of doom returned at the woman’s hushed exclamation. She fought its hold and moved her gaze to the man. He nodded, obviously in response to the woman’s comment, but remained silent. Her only recourse was pretending ignorance.

I’m sorry, but my name is Bess not Constance. However, you don’t look well. Why don’t we get you seated and I’ll bring you some water?

The man snapped out of his shock or whatever and looked down at his wife then back up at her. Yes, thank you, Miss.

Bess led them to the closest open table. Unfortunately, it was one in her section. She would have preferred to seat them in another waitress’ area, but lunchtime was always crazy. Most people had to wait for tables.

I’ll get that water, she said as soon as they were both seated.

Hurrying back behind the counter, she grabbed two glasses and began filling them. From the corner of her eye she noticed a new customer at the far end of the counter. Counter customers were usually served first, but she was worried about the couple.

I’ll be right with you, sir. As she smiled at him, he nodded.

Turning away, she noticed the couple was still staring at her. Shaking off the discomfort their attention brought, she hustled back to their table.

Here you go. Are you feeling better? The woman didn’t look much better although she had a little more color. She still looked as if she was in shock.

Ye-ye-yes, thank you, she finally managed to stutter.

Bess didn’t believe her but didn’t want to cause her more distress. She smiled and sighed. I’m glad. I’ll give you a minute to look at the menu while I take care of another customer, okay?

They nodded. It was a mechanical response. She doubted they’d even heard her, but she needed to get to the customer at the counter. He’d been patient enough.

As she walked toward the end of the counter, she paused to grab the coffee pot, thankful cups and saucers were always left at each spot. Her hands were shaking so much she was afraid she would have dropped them otherwise. When she glanced toward the customer again, she realized it wasn’t just a man. This man came in most mornings and he was handsome. She may be in panic mode, but her brain could still recognize and appreciate a fine-looking man even if he was frowning.

Hello. I apologize for the wait. Do you need a minute to look over--

No. I’ll have the special and a bowl of water for Timber, he said nodding to his left.

Bess knew about the dog and the bowl as she’d served him several times over the past couple of weeks. Timber was a beautiful German Shepherd. As usual when she looked over the counter and waved at him, he stared straight at her as if debating whether she was friend or foe.

When he’s on duty he’s intense.

On duty makes it sound like he’s in the military, she said as she finally remembered the pot in her hand and filled his cup.

We were a team in the Army, but he has other duties now.

Oh wow, an Army dog. That’s awesome. It explains his intensity, too. I’ve read about military dogs and their handlers. You’re an elite bunch.

His grin was a bit forced. What had she said to upset him?

Not anymore. We’re just a couple of working stiffs.

A working stiff was not what she would call him or the dog, but it appeared he didn’t want to discuss it. She would respect his wishes in that regard. Keeping private life private was important to her, too. Romance might not be on her to-do list, but looking at hunky men was always a great way to forget her troubles. This guy could be the hunka-hunka in her favorite Elvis song. The information he’d shared this morning was the most she’d ever gotten in three weeks. He usually spoke as little as possible. Not everyone is as social as I am. The internal reminder brought her wandering mind back to work. She had other customers so she forced herself from being mesmerized by his gorgeous, dark, enigmatic gaze.

Well, thank you for your service. I’ll place the order and get that water.

After handing him the water bowl, she turned and surveyed her section. No one looked to be in need of special attention until her gaze lit on the older couple. They still stared at her. Her jaw clenched, but she took a breath and forced it to relax remembering her decision after her parents’ deaths to face fears so they didn’t have the power to cripple her. The need to put fear behind her was one of the reasons she had moved to Colorado. She wanted to learn what it was about the place that had caused them such fear.

So, why aren’t you looking?

Ignoring her conscience once again, she pulled her order pad from her apron pocket, grabbed the coffee pot, pasted a smile on her face, and walked toward the couple’s table.

Have you had time to decide? she asked as the man turned both of their cups over to be filled.

We’ll have two of the specials, please, the man said.

Coming right up, Bess said with a smile before turning back to place the order.

As she took a step, she heard them start to whisper, but with the noise in the full diner she couldn’t make out what they were saying. Determined not to let the old ‘someone is talking about me’ insecurity take over, she walked to the order carousel and added the new ticket. In her peripheral vision she saw another table signal for her.

Can we have our bill? a young man called.

Sure, just come to the register and I’ll ring you up.

A couple of minutes later the young man stuffed a couple of bills in the tip jar and Bess smiled at him. Come back soon, folks,

When they had left, she looked back toward the end of the counter. The man appeared to be talking quietly to the dog beside him. She wanted to talk with him some more. At first she wondered why, but it didn’t take long to find the answer. Her heartstrings were always easy targets for the lost and lonely. She got the feeling he was lost. She didn’t think him homeless or anything like that. No, his strong physique made that thought laughable. Street people were not as fit or muscular. She also believed him capable of finding his way anywhere. His intelligence was clear from the intensity of his gaze and thoughtfulness before speaking. No, this was more an internal loss, the kind that was much more difficult to deal with. She wished she could help him find peace as she used to with the strays she would find and bring home when she was young.

The memory jarred her. It also reminded her she didn’t have the right to mess with anyone else’s life since she had her hands full trying to figure out her own. Therefore, chatting with the handsome stranger was the last thing she needed to do. To distract herself, she decided to make the rounds filling cups and seeing if anyone needed anything. She was chatting with a young woman in the back of the dining area when a bell rang.

Bess, order up.

Excusing herself, she turned toward the counter. Her gaze immediately found the man at the end of the counter again. She replaced the coffee pots and picked up the order at the window. As she’d expected, it was his. Today’s special of meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, and green beans. Although she wasn’t a big fan of meatloaf, she had to admit it smelled heavenly. She had learned that everything on Maddie’s menu was delicious and the majority of regulars ordered the special each day.

Here you are, she said setting the steaming plate on the counter. He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, and smiled. Bess was struck speechless. She thought if he could bottle that smile he’d make a fortune.

Thank you, he said then nodded toward the seating area in the diner. What seems to be your problem with the Barrows?

She didn’t know the older couple’s name, but it was clear they were whom he meant. It was all she could do to stop herself from glancing at them over her shoulder. They, uh, thought I was someone else.

He’d just speared a piece of meatloaf with his fork. Rather than lifting it to his mouth, he raised his gaze to her. Really? You have a rather distinctive look. Who did they think you are?

Focusing on his opening comment rather than his question, she smiled. Distinctive, huh? I’m not sure if that’s a compliment or an insult.

He shrugged as he finished chewing. An observation.

She nodded. Glad to have deflected answering his question, she smiled. Enjoy your meal.

Ryder was so busy enjoying the soft lilt of her voice, and her smooth, fluid movements he didn’t realize she didn’t answer his question until she was taking care of another customer at the register. He tried not to let his suspicious nature take over, but it was a wasted effort.

He hadn’t been a trusting person since his brother was two and his family had changed dramatically. His lack of trust had led to many confrontations with authority, though thankfully no actual arrests. How that had happened he wasn’t sure, but was thankful because it led him into a military career for which he was proud.

His earlier skirmishes with authority always made him chuckle remembering how his recruiter had suggested he go into the military police. The man had told him to give it serious thought before saying no. After many conversations with him and doing some research, he found being an MP gave him the possibility of being a Military Working Dog handler. That had decided it. He’d always preferred animals to people. The other reason was a desire to be the opposite of his father. In other words, caring about people rather than causing trouble. He’d caused enough trouble in his youth and had decided it was time to grow up.

His hand dropped to Timber’s head. One of the proudest days of his life had been when he was considered to be a handler. The day he met Timber he’d fallen in love. It would be a miracle if he ever felt anything close to the same connection with a woman, he thought glancing at the waitress again. Timber poking his thigh pulled him back from staring at her. He continued to rub the dog’s head with the back of his hand.

It’s okay, boy.

The dog had taken his change in lifestyle easier than Ryder had when his disability resulted in his leaving the military with a medical discharge. It was rare for a dog to go to a new handler, but there had been no question in his case. He and Timber had been together for eight years which meant Timber only had one or two years left anyway. It was doubtful their bond could have been broken. Still, life had changed dramatically for both of them.

First, it had been figuring out what it meant for them now that Ryder needed to rely on him differently during his recovery. Then, it had been tough on Timber when they’d moved back to his hometown after finishing rehab and taking time to adjust to his new leg. Dealing with regular day to day life in a place where the majority of people weren’t overly friendly toward his master had been difficult. Just thinking back to the months Ryder had spent looking for a job had him quickly tumbling down a prairie dog hole.

Timber bumped his thigh again.

Ryder closed his eyes for a moment. This time he buried his fingers in Timber’s thick fur and held on. After a couple of breaths, the memories receded, and he released a sigh.

Penny for your thoughts, Ryder.

His eyes popped open. Being caught off guard was nerve- wracking. When he recognized the diner’s owner standing in front of him, he relaxed.

They aren’t worth that much, Maddie, he said frowning as he took another bite of meatloaf.

Hah. You’re one of those deep thinkers. They’re probably worth a lot more than one cent. However, I bet I can guess what they are today.

Do tell. Knowing she had no idea it was a safe invitation.

You’re wondering where I’ve been hiding that adorable waitress who brought you your lunch.

He grinned. Not even close.

Maddie wiggled her eyebrows trying to tease him into agreeing.

Don’t even, he said with a reluctant chuckle. "You should know better knowing my family history and the stellar welcome I got upon my return. Timber is all the company I need."

Your bosses held similar beliefs and look at them.

He shook his head.

You forget. I know the Masters family. They didn’t have the same stigma to deal with, but that’s not worth discussing. However, you know I’ve been staying at the Scrymore estate for them. The reason they gave me that assignment, besides the fact Tom offered me a job helping him with the grounds, was everyone else has a life. They know I don’t want one.

Maddie shook her head and frowned. No, they chose you because everyone else was busy at the time. Once you were settled in it didn’t make sense to change. Anyway, once it’s been a year since Elisabeth’s death, you’ll be moving out and back on the market. I’ve already got a list of possibilities started.

He rolled his eyes as she rubbed her hands together. You can burn your list. However, regarding your waitress…

Yeees, she said, suggestively drawing the out word.

She seems to have a problem with Mary and Tom. Any idea why?

They haven’t been in for a while, so they probably haven’t seen her before. She’s new and excellent at her job so I can’t imagine an issue. Even my problem customers like her.

Ryder grinned but latched onto the real information. New as in the job or as in new to Braedon’s Edge?

Both, I think. She was still looking for an apartment when I hired her. They may have seen her during that time, though I can’t imagine her doing anything to cause them concern and as I said before, they haven’t been in since I did hire her. You know they stay at home most of the time to eat. Mary doesn’t need any help in the cooking department.

No, he said patting his stomach. That’s true. However, considering they know I’m staying on the property to provide security, you would think they would have mentioned if they had a problem with her. Anyway, she seemed tense dealing with them, but when I asked what the problem was she said they thought she was someone else. Wh--

Well, there you have it, Maddie said cutting him off. Wait, why are you so concerned? What kind of problem could Bess possibly cause Mary and Tom? She’s a waitress, not a serial killer.

I don’t know, probably just my suspicious nature. Still, she said they mistook her for someone else. Look at her. He pointed over Maddie’s shoulder. Can you imagine anyone confusing her for someone other than Marilyn Monroe with that hair? She’s definitely got a style all her own.

So, you did notice, Maddie said then chuckled, probably at his frown. You’re right, she does. She’s also a breath of fresh air in here. Not that I have problems with any of my staff, but Bess is…I don’t know how to put it. She’s upbeat, eager to help, and always adorable.

Sounds like you’re describing a puppy, Ryder said chuckling himself.

Oh you, she said slapping his arm. "That’s not what I meant. She’s just different from my high school employees. Actually, she’s different than most of my staff. Don't get me wrong, they all do their jobs well. Bess, well, Bess goes beyond the job if you know what I mean. I don't have to ask. She knows what needs to be done and does it with a smile on her face no matter how ornery anyone might be. Customers love her.

Although, now that you mention it, she glanced over her shoulder in the waitress’s direction, I can see why Mary might think she knows her. Bess looks a lot like Connie. Even the way she dresses.

All of your employees dress the same, he said dismissively.

Yes for work, but Bess dresses in the style all the time. Connie had a thing for the fifties, too.

Who’s Connie?

Maddie leaned on the counter and lowered her voice. Constance Scrymore? The person the lawyer is looking for and why you are keeping an eye on the estate for Master Security. Elisabeth’s long lost sister.

You’re talking about the Constance Scrymore who disappeared over twenty years ago? She looked that much like your waitress? When Maddie shrugged but didn’t change her story, Ryder couldn’t stop his suspicious side from taking hold. So, she could be an imposter trying to get her hands on the inheritance.

Bess? Maddie hissed leaning back and staring daggers at him. At least, it felt like he was being skewered. He’d seen that glare as a teen when he’d misbehave in the diner. He hadn’t done it often, but one of Maddie’s "mom glares" as kids had labeled them, lasted a lifetime.

Ryder Wilde, you have got to be kidding. That’s the hardest working, least officious, sweetest person, young or old I’ve ever met. That girl couldn’t be looking for an inheritance or treasure. It’s not in her nature to deceive people. You should be ashamed of yourself for even thinking such a thing. Besides, Constance would look much older. There’s no way she could still look that young.

Ryder shrugged. I guess between working for Master Security, my military time, and the fact I’m in Braedon’s Edge again, I’m suspicious of everyone. And, I agree. She does seem to be a kind soul. Still, you have to admit the timing of her appearance is odd. There are only a couple of months before the deadline. She shows up just in the nick of time?

Maddie stepped back, placed her hands on her hips, and glared at him. She looked like a momma bear ready to fight for her cubs. Receiving the glare twice in one conversation was not good. He’d managed to tick off one of the few people in town who would talk to him.

I believe you said Bess told you they were mistaken.

Ryder nodded.

If she were trying to get the inheritance don’t you think she would have said something like, it’s me, however did you know? Or something else just as ridiculous?

He nodded again. I suppose that’s true. It was a perfect opening. I guess I should leave it to the lawyer to figure out and stop belittling your employees. She’s been nothing but friendly and thoughtful. I apologize. Forgive me?

She sighed and smiled. Why is it so hard to stay mad at you Ryder Wilde?

I don’t know anyone else with that particular problem, he mumbled stabbing more food.

That danged humility is just another thing that makes you so adorable, tempting, and eligible, Maddie said wiggling her eyebrows again.

This time he shook his head. Don’t you have work to do?

She tossed her head back and laughed. I do, she said leaning over the counter and reaching a hand toward his dog. Hey, Timber. Keep this guy in line, okay?

Timber bumped her hand and then licked it.

Don’t let Tom work too hard this afternoon. It’s unseasonably hot, but the temp is supposed to drop like a bad soufflé tonight.

Yes, ma’am, he chuckled as she walked back in the kitchen.

When he turned his attention back to his plate, he found it almost empty. He glanced up and saw the waitress walking back behind the counter. He lifted his hand to get her attention.

Licked the plate clean, I see, she said smiling.

Close.

How about dessert?

No thanks, he said as he pulled money from his pocket and handed it to her. This should cover it.

She looked at the money and laughed. I’ll get your change.

No need.

Her smile was megawatt. He nodded and stood. Her smile pushed away all the negative thoughts he’d had a moment ago. Watching her walk to the register, he thought if he were to entertain the idea of dating someone, she’d be first on the list. The fact that he hadn’t dated in years said something for the woman. It wasn’t that he consciously avoided it. When he'd left town he was determined to change his life and since returning after the incident that caused his discharge, accepting the life he now had was all-consuming.

Maybe it’s time to actually start living.

Yeah, that’s not going to happen. Timber nudged him as they walked toward the door. You’re right, he whispered. Our life is fine the way it is. No need to mess with perfection.

Enjoy your day, she called as he pulled the door open.

He glanced back and offered a tight smile. Getting through each day was the best he hoped for anymore. Enjoyment wasn’t even on the list.

Waving to Tom and Mary through the window as he walked to his truck, he could see they were still tense. He didn’t like them upset. They were good people and didn’t deserve trouble.

Simply thinking the word had his mind turning back to the waitress slash lookalike. From what he’d observed he knew she was hiding something. The intelligence behind her eyes was clear the first time he’d spoken to her weeks ago. It would definitely take smarts and patience to know enough to change your looks and learn enough about the Scrymores to fool someone into believing she was Constance Scrymore. Of course, Maddie was right. She looked too young to be Constance Scrymore. Still, maybe she’d snowed Maddie and was after the inheritance.

Then why get a waitress job rather than go straight to the estate or the lawyer? And, why hadn’t she accepted Mary’s belief that she is Constance? On the other hand, why try to look like the Scrymore woman if she isn’t after the inheritance?

He didn’t have answers to those questions. The fear there would be more questions before answers had his mind racing which was ridiculous. His job was to keep the Scrymore estate free of squatters and vandals, not protect Elisabeth Scrymore’s wishes in her will. For now, he’d put the other aside. He needed to get over to the security office, pick up the new locks Tres had ordered, and then get back to the estate. The new locks wouldn’t install themselves.

Bess had felt the man’s gaze through the window as she made her way to the dining area. It was hard not to wave at him. Heck, it had been hard