“Yes, hi Finn. I’m Anabelle.”
“Hello, Anabelle. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
“Good, I hope. He’s in the bedroom. I wouldn’t let him come out until the meeting today.”
“Is he a cooperative patient?”
“Most of the time. He’s a terrific guy.”
“I think so too.” She led him down the hall to a master suite. Oliver looked over. “Hey, buddy!”
Leaning down, he hugged Oliver. There were lines around his eyes and mouth and his skin was pale. He didn’t like seeing his friend hurt. “I’ll leave you two alone,” Anabelle said. “Finn, would you like something?”
“No thanks.”
When she was gone, he sat in the chair by the bed. “You’re dressed.”
“Did you expect to see me in a hospital gown?”
“No. And don’t joke about this. I’m really worried about you.”
“I’m much better, Finn. I had a CT and nothing else is wrong. But don’t tell Anabelle how I’m doing. I got a sponge bath and help dressing today.”
Finn chuckled. “Your secret’s safe with me.” Finn frowned. “So, you tripped over a barbell. I swear I didn’t leave anything out when I last used them.”
“I know. I didn’t either. You know what that means?”
“It’s our stalker. Or murderer. Or whatever the fuck he is.” Oliver shivered. “Man, I hope Marshall has some good news for us. Like he found the guy behind all this.”
“Yeah, I know. It’s wearing thin.”
They heard the doorbell ring. “We should go out. Everybody’ll be here soon.”
“Want me to call Anabelle for you to lean on?”
“No, wiseass. I don’t. I think I’ll let my best friend do it.”
* * *
Daisy and Heath arrived together. Anabelle welcomed them, then discreetly disappeared. Daisy rushed to Oliver. “Oliver! You’re the latest victim.”
He took her in his arms. “I’m doing pretty well.” She drew back and wiped away tears.
“I can’t believe this is happening.”
Heath asked, “Want me to check your stitches?”
“No, thanks. Anabelle did it. And I got a CT, which was clear.”
“Glad you listened to her, at least,” Heath said dryly.
Anabelle came out then. “Hello, everybody. Hi, Heath.”
He bolted up. “You’rehisAnabelle.”
“Yes. Nice to see you again.”
“You two know each other?” Oliver asked.