“You don’t sound convinced.”
“I am.”
“Then why do you look like you’re somewhere else?”
There it is again. That sharp observation. That way he notices things I don’t always want noticed.
“I’m here,” I say.
“That’s not what I asked.”
I turn toward him, fully this time.
“What do you want me to say?”
“The truth.”
The words feel like a slap because I don’t know which truth he’s asking for. There are too many now.
“I’m tired,” I say finally.
It’s not a lie. It’s just not the whole answer. Nolan watches me for a second longer.
Then nods.
“Take a break.”
I hesitate, then step outside, hoping the salty spray from the bay works its magic.
I walk a few steps away from the house, stopping near the edge of the property where the grass gives way to sand and the faint line of water beyond.
I pull my phone out without thinking. The only messages are from my mother and ex. Both telling me to grow up and come home, and that they’d take over the project.
But nothing from the person I’m really waiting on. The realization lands like a slow drop in my stomach, heavier than it should be. I shove the phone back into my pocket.
“This is ridiculous,” I mutter.
Rook would agree if he were here, but he’s back at Holt’s house enjoying his new dog bed.
Instead, I’m alone with the quiet and the steady sound of waves breaking in the distance and the realization that I’m thinking about Holt in the middle of a workday like it’s something I can’t shut off. Which is dangerous.
My phone rings. The sound cuts through everything swirling in my mind.
Unknown number.
My stomach drops as I answer before I can think better of it.
“Hello?”
“Lark?”
The male voice is unfamiliar, but strong in that official sort of way. My grip tightens on the phone.
“Yes.”
“This is Captain Mac with Coral Bell Cove Fire Department.”
Everything in me goes still all at once.
