Page 15

“I love you, too, Edee.” Lyn brightens a little at the declaration.

I knew it, it’s been easy to see, but it’s practically glowing in bright neon lights how much Edee means to Lyndell.

“I wanted Mama Mary and Papa Pennis. I came here…I knew they would help you. But…I can’t find them.

The lady at the desk said they aren’t here. ”

Edee wipes tears from under her eyes, “You came here looking for my parents because I was hurt?” He nods and I lean back fast enough to avoid being knocked in the jaw again. He has a hard head. “Ty’s right, you’re fucking magic, Lyndell.”

“Mr. Wicawiil?” Lyn and I both glance up at the hotel concierge who hovers behind Edee and the police officers. “Tyrone?”

“Yes?”

“Can we speak for a moment?” I had a feeling they would need to. Lyn caused a disturbance in their place of business, not to mention the ice cream, soda, and what’s left of a cheeseburger on the table where he was sitting. With a sigh, I tap Lyndell’s hip.

“Sit with Edee for a bit, buddy. I’ll be right back.” He nods, his eyes darting warily from me to the woman in the hotel uniform. She smiles softly at him which eases some of my concern. I kiss the top of Edee’s head on my way past.

In the lobby, she slides behind the desk and taps on her computer. “Mr. Shingleton has secured a room for him and his wife; they will be arriving in a few hours.”

“Thank you. How much do I owe for his meal?”

She meets my eyes and offers me another soft smile. “It’s on the house, sir.”

“No, please, I appreciate what you did for him. I imagine he was disruptive—”

“He was scared and alone and anyone who treated him poorly will be rewarded with a lifetime stay in the 8 th circle of hell,” she spits out venomously. I like her. I look at her nametag.

“Veronica, thank you…for your compassion.” And bloodthirst.

She dips her head in acknowledgement. “Mr. Shingleton has also secured a room for you, Lyndell, and Miss Shingleton to stay tonight.”

“Oh, that’s not—”

“You have been through a trying ordeal, take the night to recuperate.” There’s no arguing with her…or Dennis. Or Mary. “However, I have upgraded you to our two-bedroom suite.”

“That’s definitely not necessary—”

“It’s my prerogative.”

“Yes, ma’am.” She reminds me of Mama Mary, only slightly less terrifying.

“Here are your keys. I will have dinner sent up shortly for you and Miss Shingleton and a second dessert for Lyndell.” Dammit, I’m crying again. I sniffle like a little bitch and angrily wipe under my eyes.

“That’s really nice of you.”

Her right eyebrow cocks, as she replies drily, “You seem quite thrilled about it.”

“This is all just a lot to take.” I wave my hands around like a crazy person, but she just grins.

“I know. Why don’t you three go up, relax, and dinner will be up soon. I’m sure the Shingletons will notify you of their arrival.”

“Thank you.” My voice is hoarse, but who cares. This is…more than I could ever have expected.

“Hey, sexy. What are you up to later?” I spin around and stare at the officer who drove us here in shock. My brother was missing for hours and he’s hitting on the hotel clerk?

“If you must know, I’m going home later, pouring a glass of wine, and reading a book…in my tub.” What the fuck is happening right now? I get a little dizzy, ping-ponging between the two of them.

“Alone?” his voice drops a couple octaves as he leans on the counter next to me. I’m uncomfortable. I need an adult…a different adult.

“That depends…on you, officer.”

“I’ll pick you up at 10. I prefer my bubbles to be lavender scented.” With that, the officer taps the counter, then walks back into the restaurant. I stare after him, my brain stuttering at what I just witnessed.

“That’s my husband.”

“Jesus.” I rub my hand over my head and down my face, laughter bubbling up from deep in my chest. “Thank you, Mrs. Officer. Enjoy your wine.”

“Oh, I will.” I start to walk away, but she calls me back.

“Ty, your brother…he’s a special young man.

And a wonderful friend to our daughter.” The surprises keep coming.

“She’s in her second year of the Good Work program at the university.

” Leaning over to whisper conspiratorially, she tells me, “They have crushes on each other and it’s absolutely adorable.

” Standing back, she slides a card over the counter toward me.

“Please call anytime to set something up for them to get together.”

I walk back to my brother and Edee on numb legs.

My brain rapid firing as it processes the insane events of the day.

I’m tired. Exhausted. Bone deep. Soul deep.

Lyn gives the officer his own statement and it makes me furious all over again, but Edee is there to keep me calm.

“We’ll talk once he’s asleep,” she tells me while the officer finishes up.

“Give us a call tomorrow once you’ve all had a chance to talk things through. Glad you’re ok, Lyndell. Clara will be happy to hear it, too.” Lyn’s complexion pinkens, his eyes dropping to the table as a slow smile spreads his lips. He DOES have a crush!

Arm over Edee’s shoulder, my other hand on the back of Lyn’s neck, the three of us make our way to the luxury suite. I yawn. Edee yawns. Lyndell yawns so big and long I can see his tonsils. I wouldn’t be surprised if the three of us pass out in the elevator on the way up.