Tears poured down Sam’s cheeks as he slowly handed him his weapon. Dan quickly took out the magazine, emptied the bullets, checked the chamber, and then gave the gun to Frank, who had just come around the corner. Sobbing, Sam collapsed into Dan’s arms as he held him, letting him cry.

Serina pulled Angela out of the way and into her arms as they watched.

Slowly, Maria opened the front door but held her hand to her lips. “Everything’s under control now. Please, just give them a minute.”

Sherriff Zac McDonald nodded, holstering his weapon as he pulled a pair of handcuffs from his gun belt and waited.

When Sam was calm, Dan pulled back and looked into his eyes. “Sam, I meant what I said. You’re not alone. I’ll come see you, and we can talk.”

Sam nodded, looking up through his tear-stained eyes. “Why would you do this for me?”

A small smile lit Dan’s lips as a lump formed in his throat. “Because several years ago, I could have been you. I know what it’s like not to have hope.” Dan gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze. “But now, I do… and so do you.”

“Thanks, man,” Sam replied, and then stood back and placed his hands behind his back, ready.

Sherriff Zac stepped up behind him. “You have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer any questions. What you say or do can be used against you in a court of law. You have the right….” Zac slowly snapped the handcuffs on Sam’s wrists as he softly read him his Miranda rights and then led him out the door.

Dan grabbed Angela and pulled her to his chest with one arm, inhaling her sweet, floral scent, his other hand holding her neck to his chest, running his fingers in her reddish-blonde hair. Warmth filled him like no other he’d felt before as he held her for a few moments, glad that nothing had happened to her. Serina locked the door behind the Sheriff.

“Everyone, stay here for a moment,” Serina announced. “Thank you all for remaining calm during the crisis, but I’m sure Sheriff McDonald and his deputies will want to get a statement from each of you.” She looked around to Frank. “We’re closed for the rest of the day. Make a sign and put it in the front window.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Frank headed over to the hostess stand and did as she asked.

“Angela, are you okay?” Dan asked, pulling back to look into her eyes. He had expected to see that she had been crying and in shock, but she wasn’t even shaking.

She nodded, letting out a deep breath as she looked up. “I’m fine. Thank you… for saving me.”

Dan nodded, giving her a smile. “Are you sure?” He looked over at Maria, another waitress that worked the dayshift. “Could you get Angela a soda with sugar, please? It’ll help keep her from going into shock.”

“Sure thing.” Sharon nodded, her eyes filled with concern as she ran toward the waitress’s alley.

“Angela, you take off for the rest of the day. I’m sending everyone else home today with pay, too, so don’t worry.” The manager pulled her in for a hug. “I’m just glad you’re okay.” She pulled back and smiled as she looked into her eyes. “You scared me half to death!”

Angela chuckled, her breath a bit ragged. “I’m just glad Dan was here to save us all.”

“Here,” Maria said, shoving a drink into her hand as she led her to a nearby booth. “Drink this and sit here for a minute. If you start going into shock, I’m taking you to the hospital.”

Angela laughed, shaking her head as she took a huge swallow of the soda. “I’m fine.” Then she looked up. “Dan, how can I ever repay you?”

“No repayment is necessary.” He gave her a huge smile. “I’m glad I was here.” Then he leaned in and kissed her forehead. “I’m just glad you’re okay.” He waved goodbye, feeling relieved as he stepped over to Frank. “I hate to ask, but is my order ready? If it isn’t, don’t worry about it. I’ll get something somewhere else.”

“Sure,” Frank replied, smiling. “Your order for the tree lot is ready, but I’m afraid your order for here was trashed.” He glanced at the broken plate and food strewn across the floor. “But if you give me a minute, I’ll make it for you again.”

“No, that’s not necessary.” Dan shook his head, a smile lighting his lips. “I’ll grab something at home. Thanks.” He took the bag that Frank handed to him across the counter.

“Thanks, man,” Frank said, a smile stretching his lips. “You really saved us today. I can’t thank you enough.”

Dan shrugged. “Glad I was here. If you ever need anything, I’m in the trailer across the street on the tree lot.”

Frank burst out laughing. “Well, I hope we won’t need this kind of help again, but thanks for offering. It’s nice to know.”

Carrying the huge paper bag, Dan supported it as he headed toward the register. “Serina, how much do I owe you?”

“Not a thing.” She pulled him in for a quick hug. “Thanks, again, for everything.”

Dan smiled as he shook his head. “No, I want to pay you for this. What do I owe you?”

Serina scoffed. “If you try to pay me after what you just did, I’d be offended.”

“Well, I don’t want to insult you.” Dan chuckled as he put away his wallet. “Thanks.” He started to walk out but stole one last glance over his shoulder at Angela and smiled. She smiled back, apparently still unfazed.

“By the way,” Serina said, catching him just before he walked out. Dan turned back, and she said, “Happy holidays!”

As he headed out and the Sheriff stopped him to get his statement, Dan couldn’t help but think of Angela, and hoped that she was going to be okay.