Page 189 of Reeves

"No, that's everything. The deed will be recorded this afternoon."

Outside, the cooler fall air a nice change to the heat. I walk to my truck and check my watch.

Two hours until I pick up Benjy.

I start the engine and head out of the lot.

I pullinto the pick-up line at Westlake Elementary, turning off the engine and scanning the playground where kids are playing. My knee bounces slightly as I wait.

The bell rings and children flood the yard in waves of backpacks and lunchboxes. I spot Benjy immediately, his dark hair and the way he moves, making him stand out. His eyes find me and his face lights up.

I recognize his teacher now, and she sees my Hummer. It sticks out like a sore thumb against the minivans and Suburbans.

"Reeves!" He breaks into a run, dodging between other kids with the agility of someone who knows exactly where his body is in space.

"Mr. Stone," the teacher says through the open passenger window. She opens the back door for him to climb in.

"Benjy had a wonderful day today. He's got a few art pieces from the last few weeks in his folder and a permission slip for the field trip in two weeks. Please make sure you sign it and send it back."

"We're on it. Thanks, Ms. Lin."

I turn around to greet him. I smile and tap him on the knee as he bounces in his seat.

"Hey, buddy." The warmth in my voice surprises even me.

Benjy pulls back, words already tumbling out. "We did science experiments today with water and food coloring, and Ms. Lin said mine was the best because I followed all the steps and didn't rush."

"That's cool. You ready to go?"

"Yeah. Is Mom at work?" He adjusts his backpack, which looks massive against his small frame.

"She is. I've got something to show you before you go home later."

His eyes widen. "A surprise?"

"Something like that." I make sure he's buckled before putting us in drive.

"Is it a helicopter? Or a submarine? Or—" He stops, thinking hard. "Is it a new trap for the pirates?"

"None of those." I start the engine. "But I think you're going to like it."

Benjy radiates with energy as we pull away from the school. "Can I have a hint?"

"It's bigger than a breadbox."

His forehead wrinkles. "What's a breadbox?"

"Never mind." I smile. "Old expression."

"Is it alive?"

"Nope."

"Is it a tank? Like at the show?"

"Unfortunately, no. But I agree that would be an amazing surprise."

He taps his chin, deep in concentration.