Page 91 of Long Past Deadly

That was Mac. To the point. He knew all their people – who they were at work and home, pushed to get the best out of them, and stood behind them during the shit stuff.

“I’ll pull Kerry to help. We need to hire another computer person.”

“Agreed. Navy apparently talked to Ryker after Harry called. You should include him if you need someone.”

“Already on the list. Anything else?”

“Frank. Pull him in, too. He’s been involved from the parking lot attempt. I don’t want any other agencies shoving us out. It’s our case.”

“Understood. Out.”

Quaid disconnected and dialed Niles. “Sir, what do you need?”

“We’re about to start something.”

“Manhunt. I heard.”

“Alanna wants clothes and her weapons from her apartment in LA. Are you comfortable with handling the pickup?”

“Of course. I assume I’ll need keys and instructions.”

“Are you still at QM?”

“Yes, arranged lunch. Dinner is being catered. I’ve arranged deliveries for all meals tomorrow to get the crew through one more day. I’ll be returning home tonight.”

“Us, too. Alanna can talk with you at home.”

“May I ask pointblank what your intentions are with Miss Alanna?”

“That sounded protective.” Niles had never questioned him about his ‘dates’ in their entire association.

“You don’t bring women home. That you brought her to the house speaks.”

He didn’t disagree. “Niles, we’re working this through in slow stages. For the moment, we’re together. Do what you can to help her.”

“Understood. You should keep her.”

“Trying.”

“Don’t try. That should be a given.” He disconnected without his usual signoff.

Niles words lingered. Was it a given? He’d been acting like it – live it and worry about the rest later. Oh boy, he wasn’t going to assume any such thing.

The curtain pulled back and Cait came out with the ER doctor. She waved the other man off and came to Quaid’s side.

“She okay?” She was so tough, and she never complained. He wouldn’t know she was hurting unless she told him.

“Well, it could be better, but we’re making progress.”

Alanna walked through the curtain and came to his side.

Cait patted her arm. “Let me go put in the order. We’ll get those meds and have them ready when you come back from talking to Whit. Don’t tire him.”

“I need a few answers. We won’t be long.” She sought him with her eyes.

He gave a short, encouraging nod. “Let’s go.”

Cait gave them a thumbs up. “Find me when you’re done.”