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Andy sighed because yes, it wasn’t like Marcus was going to forget about Quinn. For the time being, Quinn was probably even higher on Marcus’s hit list than Andy.

“You go ahead and phone the hospital. See how Cutty is. We’ll make our plans from there, but we need to figure out why someone wants into this shop so badly. We need to know what they’re looking for.”

“Did you happen to get a look at whoever you saw last night in the alley?”

“Male, for sure. Tall, muscular. Unfortunately, he wore gloves and a ski mask.”

“Great.”

“Sound like anyone you know?”

Andy threw Quinn a look of disbelief, then realized Quinn was teasing him. And though it was probably not the time for jokes, Andy was surprised into a laugh.

“It’s starting to sound likeeveryoneI know.”

Quinn laughed too, and rose. He pulled out his phone. “What’s your number?”

Quinn typed in the numbers Andy recited. Quinn typed a couple of strokes. “Okay. I’ve just sent you my contact info. I’ve got a few quick errands to run, but I’ll be in touch.”

Andy nodded, rose too.

“The sooner we can find out what this guy is after, the sooner we can send him on his merry way.”

“Right. Once I know how Uncle C. is, I’ll know my plans for the day.”

Quinn regarded Andy. He seemed to hesitate. Andy raised his brows in inquiry. Quinn gave him a quick smile, shook his head, then turned and headed for the front door. Andy followed him out.

They went down the stairs in silence. Andy unlocked the front door of the shop, Quinn slipped out without a word or glance, and Andy closed the door against the frosty breeze, leaning against it. He watched Quinn, head ducked to his chest, stride past the windows and disappear down the street.

Funny how the shop already felt smaller and quieter without Quinn’s presence.

Andy bolted the door and headed upstairs once more.

No change.

That was the official word at the hospital.

“Is that good news or bad news?” Andy asked.

He was told Dr. Waldo would phone him back, and not long after, Dr. Waldo did.

“It’s too soon to predict, but we have indications of strong brain activity in response to external stimuli. That’s encouraging. Which is not to say we’re out of the woods. We’re not.”

“Should I be there?” Andy questioned. “Would it help? I could talk to him, read to him, let him know he’s not alone.”

Dr. Waldo cleared his throat. “Clark and Fleur are here, you know, so Cutty’s not alone.”

Clark and Fleur hovering by his bedside was probably a huge incentive for Uncle C.notopening his eyes, but of course Andy didn’t say that. He didn’t even know that it was true. Though his recent run-ins with his cousin and his cousin’s wife had not been exactly heartwarming, Andy had no idea what Uncle C. might want under these awful circumstances.

“All right. If you think that’s best.”

“I’ve known your uncle for a long time,” Dr. Waldo said. “I can’t help thinking that what would mean the most to Cutty is knowing his shop is being looked after. That his, er, interests are being protected.”

Andy didn’t say anything for a moment. He was pretty sure Dr. Waldo had already said more than he’d planned on or was comfortable with.

“I understand. If I can be of more use here, then that’s where I’ll be.”

“Good.” Dr. Waldo was crisp. “We’ll let you know if there’s any change.”