“Lanie, I’m sorry, but—”
“For your love of Alyssa, please help me.”
I close my eyes and count to five, kneading at my forehead, a headache building.
Everyone seems bound and determined to make this love, and we haven’t even had a proper date. However, I do care about her, and this is her friend.
“All right, fine. I’ll help you out, but it won’t be until later. It’s my niece’s birthday.”
She sighs. “No rush. I’m leaving town. I’ll shoot you a text with the code and we can chat via phone,” she says, ending the call.
I clench my teeth, wondering if I should just head over there now and save myself the inquisition to come from my mom.
“What was that about?” Mom asks, eyes narrowed in on me.
“Someone broke into Alyssa’s friend’s place. She asked me to take a look around.”
Mom’s eyes light up, and a shit-eating grin spreads across her face at the mere mention of Alyssa. “You really like this girl.” It’s not a question, and I know a drilling is about to commence.
I sigh. Might as well spill my guts and admit my feelings for a woman I’m just getting to know. It was Christmas not long ago, and I’ve yet to give Mom her gift. What could be better than the hope that one day I might at the very least give her a wedding?
To most that would seem a major stretch, considering we’ve only started dating. But not for good ole Carol.
She’ll be picking out her mother-of-the-groom dress by dessert.
A text comes in, and I consider ignoring it, sure it’s Lanie, stressing the need for help with her discreet issue, but decide to check anyway.
Skiver
Another body was located at the East Fork docks. Similar situation. Young girl. When can you get back to town?
My blood runs cold as Alyssa’s premonition comes to pass. I’ve been waiting for a body to show up, and now that it has, it makes what she says all the more real.Everythingthat she says.
Isla included.
Me
Do you have an ID on the victim?
Skiver
Not yet. Body was just discovered.
Me
I’ll be back tonight. It won’t be until late.
Skiver
Safe travels. See you in the early am.
My appetite is gone, and my mood has plummeted. So much for a fun family birthday celebration.
20
The Chariot
As we pullup to the small ranch home, I turn to Nina, watching her closely.
