“Whimpered.”
“A-ler-ted.” She sounded out each syllable.
“We’ll just have to agree to disagree on this one.”
“Why is it so hard for you to admit you like him?”
It was a damn good question, but I didn’t know the answer. The only crime Ralph was guilty of was shitting his brains out all over my gym floor. Even then, it was more or less our fault for overindulging him at feeding time. So, what the hell was wrong with me?
“Oh crap, I know why you’re acting like this.”
“Enlighten me, Sunshine.” I pulled her feet into my lap, rubbing the soles.
“You’re jealous.”
“Of a dog? Why would I be jealous of a creature who enjoys chasing his own tail?”
“You thought getting a puppy was a great idea until we brought him home and he got all my attention.”
Fuck’s sake. I totally was, but there wasn’t a chance inhell I’d admit it. The furry bastard had wormed his way into her heart and stolen her affection. He might’ve earned himself a juicy steak for alerting me––because let’s face it, he absolutely did––but he for sure wasn’t sleeping on the bed again after tonight.
Time for a subject change.
Her father’s upcoming business disaster could wait until she felt better. So could her mother’s change in plea. The information I discovered at the kids’ party was more time sensitive. I’d been holding on to it, trying to figure out the best course of action. I needed to bring in the team. Originally, I planned to meet them at the office this morning. Circumstances being what they were, the location had to change.
“I need to meet with my team later. Are you good if they come here?”
“You can go to the office if you want to, Duncan. I’m doing a lot better.”
“Not leaving you, Sunshine.”
“Whatever.” She rolled her eyes.
“Besides, what we have to discuss involves you too.”
“Me? How?”
“I remembered something about the accident. Something huge.”
“That’s great. What was it?”
“I know who shot me.”
Her hands fisted at her side. “Who?”
“Rest for now. When everyone gets here, I’ll tell you all together.”
Miraculously, she listened…partly. Her eyes were closed, but her fingers lazily rubbed back and forth over Ralph’s head. Picking up my cell from the table next to the sofa, I shot off a text in our group thread.
Me: Meeting. My house. 2 p.m. sharp.
Of course, word of Sloane’s trip to the hospital had already made it through the grapevine.
Lanie: How’s Sloane? Does she need anything?
Me: Better since they got the fever down.
Noah: Do you have any sports drinks? It’ll help with the dehydration plus replenish some of her electrolytes.