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“I call it Backup. For the times when Blackstone isn’t there.”
“I’m impressed, Livi. You should present this to Frank and see what he thinks.”
“Oh, Grandpa,” she reached into her bookbag and pulled out her laptop, “I’ve got an entire presentation ready to go for Great Uncle Frank. Including and not limited to PowerPoint because apparently those are still used,” she sighed, “and a small video of how everything fits nice under camouflage.” I eyed her. “Auntie Cat wasn’t overly pleased I used her bra, but I can’t help that. She has the biggest—”
I cut her off. “I got it. You know how to set up a meeting with Frank. I’m sure he’d love to hear from you.”
“Excellent.” She grabbed her bag and began to pack up. Abby walked in and got a view of the sketch and a quick run-through, then Livi gave her a hug and ran out, saying she had to contact her Uncle Frank.
“Don’t even go there.” I chuckled at her look.
“I don’t think I even know what to say.” Abby chuckled, but I noticed she was a bit paler than she usually was. “Daniel? Would it be a problem if I went for a weekend to North Dakota in a couple weeks?”
“Of course not.” I was surprised she even asked. “I can get Davie or Dell to escort you.”
“Thank you.”
“I don’t want to overstep, but is everything all right?” She glanced around quickly and shot a smile at Mia as she hurried in to retrieve her cell off the coffee table.
“Sorry, running late for my class.” She whisked away, but I did notice she threw me a puzzled look.
“It’s nothing to be alarmed about. I’ve just been feeling a bit lightheaded lately. My doctor just wants to run some tests.”
“You should take Sue with you.” I knew Sue would be upset if she wasn’t brought into this.
“She and Savi have been so busy with Brandon and Reagan.” She folded her arms. “I don’t want to add any more stress.”
“Abby,” I moved close to her and lowered my voice, “what about Doc?”
“No,” she shook her head, “he has a lot going on as well. He needs to focus on his work right now.”
“Fine.” I stood straighter. “Then I’m going with you.”
“No—”
“Abby,” I put my hand on her shoulder, “I’ll put it to you this way. It’s me or Mark.”
“Dear God, he’d have me flown out on the chopper.” She laughed. “Okay, okay, but this stays between us.”
“And me.” Mia hadn’t left after all and stood with her arms folded and a look that dared Abby to fight her. Abby reached out her hand and Mia took it as she joined us.
“I don’t want a big deal made out of this. The doctor assured me he’s sure it’s nothing life threatening. I just need to get some tests. You know, given my age.” She made air quotes and tried to laugh it off. “I’m just tired of the vertigo.”
“Understood.” Mia nodded at her like the professional she was. “Let’s find a quiet room, and you can bring me up to speed on what’s going on.”
“Cole’s office is free, and so is the one next to Doc’s. I’ll be in shortly.” I kissed Mia on the head, and the two of them left.
“Grandpa!” Liam came running in. “Ethan licked a frog and told me it tastes like chicken.”
“Mark!” I shouted, and he appeared out of thin air, which told me he was up to no good again.
“Deal with,” I pointed to his twins, “your hyenas.”
He scooped them up and whispered something in their ear that made them both giggle. I didn’t want to know.
“Hey, Mike,” Keith came running up the stairs, “your niece has your wife’s bra on.”
“Some things I don’t need to know!” Mike called.
