Page 49 of No Headlines Please

"Because I took one of those little tickets when I parked it."

A time-stamped garage ticket? I didn't see the issue. "And?"

"And…the thing is…you have to pay when you leave."

Finally, the pieces clicked. "And you have no cash."

"Well, I did have cash," she said. "But then on my way into Chicago, I passed this roadside flower stand and decided to grab a little something for Tessa – you know, as a peace offering."

None of this was funny. And yet, I felt a smile tug at my mouth as I recalled the sight of Delaney holding that crazy flower pot in the lobby.

Now, come to find out, the potted flowers were a gift for the sister she hadn't spoken to in ages.

Silently, I started making a list.

Retrieve the car.

Settle things with the bank.

Make sure Delaney didn't go hungry.

I asked, "So, what'd your mom say about it?"

Delaney's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

"Did she explain? Apologize? Say what the money was for?"

This made Delaney laugh. But it wasn't the happy laugh I'd gotten used to.

I searched her face. "What's so funny?"

"I know what she spent the money on."

"What?"

"A trip to Paris."

I stared. "You're kidding."

"I wish." Delaney grimaced. "Apparently, she's shopping."

No fucking way. "And she actually told you that?"

"No. I found out through social media."

I was still staring. "But what'd she say when you talked to her?"

Delaney slumped back in her chair. "I didn't talk to her."

"Why not?" I tried to think. "Because she didn't answer the phone?"

"No." Her voice grew quiet. "Because I didn't even call."

Seriously? "You're joking, right?"

She sighed. "I know what you're thinking."

Doubtful. "And what's that?"