“I know I looked guilty,” she continues. “I know I gave you reasons to suspect me. The fake degree, the blackmail, all of it.”
“You were honest,” I say. “That counted for something.”
“I’m going to come clean,” she says quietly. “To my clients. To everyone. Start over the right way this time.”
“That takes guts,” Mackenzie says. “And I know you have them.”
Kennedy smiles, small but real. “Yeah, well. Turns out, almost getting framed for murder is a pretty good wake-up call.”
Biscuit Gravy hops over and sits at her feet with his tail wagging, looking up at her with those big golden eyes. Kennedy’s expression softens. She crouches down and lets him lick her hand.
“He’s so sweet,” she says.
“He’s a little food-obsessed,” I correct. “But yeah, he’s sweet.”
She looks up at me, hesitant. “Actually... I was wondering if maybe he’s not already called for, I thought maybe he could come and live with me. I would love to adopt him if you don’t mind.”
I blink. “Adopt Biscuit Gravy?”
A mournful smile comes to my face. “If that’s okay. I mean, I know he’s yours, but I just thought?—”
I look at Biscuit Gravy. “What do you think, buddy?”
The nervous bundle of blonde hair feeds me treats and says nice things,Biscuit Gravy barks.Can I go with her?
“He says yes,” I say as I scoop him up and kiss him on the furry forehead before handing him to his new mommy.
Kennedy lights up and her whole face transforms as I place Biscuit Gravy into her arms. “Really?” She laughs with tears sparkling in her eyes. “Oh my goodness, thank you!”
I get to have an adventure with a new hooman!Biscuit Gravy thinks, already settling in.This is officially the best day ever!
They head off together with Kennedy talking to Biscuit Gravy about his new home and asking what kind of treats he likes, and I’m standing here feeling oddly proud of a dog I’ve known for less than a week.
Blaire turns to Mackenzie with a smile that’s all teeth and no warmth. “Good luck with your reputation, Mayor Woods. Those posts are still live.” She lets that sink in. “It should make for an interesting town council meeting. Don’t you think?”
She walks off with her phone already out, and Mackenzie growls in her wake.That woman never quits.
No, she doesn’t. But at least she’s not a killer, so we’re calling it progress.
Mackenzie turns to me, and her expression swings between relief and fury. “Thank you, Bizzy,” she growls as she says it. “Seriously. You cleared my name. Twice.”
I wait for the punchline, but it doesn’t come. I guess she actually means it.
“You helpedtake her down,” I say. “That counts.”
“I mostly just fell on her.” She grunts as she looks out at the dark water.
“Well, it was strategic falling,” I’m quick to assure her.
Mackenzie almost smiles. Almost.
Jasper leans in. “Did Mackenzie Woods just thank someone?”
“I think hell froze over,” Huxley adds with a laugh.
I’d laugh, too, but I’m too afraid to do it. We did just have two homicides in the last week. I’d hate to make it three—especially if I’m the last victim.
Mackenzie glares at both of them with the fury of a thousand suns.
