AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Someone knocked on the shelf. He glanced up and saw Joana striding toward him. She wore a contemplative expression as she hiked herself up on the counter across from him.
He glanced at her, noticing the way she was studying his face. “Something I can help you with?”
“No, I just came to check up on you.”
“That’s surprisingly kind, considering…”
“Yeah.” She rubbed the back of her neck. “Carrie’s being hard on you because she’s worried about Jewel. That’s all she can focus on right now. Plus you did lie to us, which resulted in Jewel running away and right into Kross’s clutches.”
“Thanks for the reminder.”
“I didn’t come to throw more salt on the wound.” Joana leaned her head back. “I wanted to say I was sorry. About your sister I mean. Nolan told us about it when you left earlier.”
Finn dug his fingers into the counter. “It was a long time ago.”
“But you’re still tormented by it.”
He kept his mouth shut. Wasn’t like he could deny the truth.
“Even if you made some dumb decisions while you were here, it was to find the man who’d killed your sister. There’s a part of me that thinks I’d do the same thing if I were in your position.”
“I appreciate that, but I don’t deserve forgiveness. Like you said,” he turned and faced her, “it’s my fault Jewel is with Kross.”
“You and Nolan will also be the reason we get her back.”
“How are you so sure?”
“It’s just a feeling.” She shrugged. “Jewel’s going to survive and we’re going to find her. There’s no other option for me.” Joana glanced down. “But I’m curious,” she tilted her head, “are you worried about Jewls because you think you’re responsible or are genuine feelings there?”
“What do you mean?”
“I get that you were only acting when you showed up for the wedding, but Jewel said you rescued her that night when Kross called. You made her feel safe and protected. That’s tough given she doesn’t feel safe around men.”
“I guess so.”
“Do you like her?”
“I—”
“Guys!” Nolan called from the front.
Finn exchanged a worried look with Joana. She popped off the counter and followed him as he hurried back to the kitchen where Nolan had set up his temporary workstation.
Nolan spun, his eyes wide. The police scanner was screeching loudly in the background. He hiked a thumb over his shoulder and said, “They found something.”
“Where?” Finn swiped his keys from the counter, already moving toward the door.
“At one of Kross Sr.’s old houses.” He paused and listened. “Sounds like they’re dispatching patrol to check it out.”
Finn firmed his jaw. “Then I have to get there first.”
“I’m coming with you,” Carrie said.
Finn shook his head. “It’s dangerous.”
“I’m coming.” Carrie soared past him and left through the door without another word.
He glanced back and found Joana looking at him. She dipped her chin down encouragingly. “Bring our girl home.”
