Page 96 of Talon

I walk around to open the passenger door for Randolph. He tries to get out of the chair himself but sits back down almost immediately. A look of annoyance crosses his face. I doubt he’s used to being this helpless. I can’t imagine how hard it must be for him.

“Here, let me give you a hand,” I say gently, offering my arm for support. Randolph flashes a grateful smile.

“I guess I’m not as strong as I thought I was,” he says, steadying himself as I help him into the car.

“You’ll get your strength back,” I assure him.“That nerve toxin really messed up your system. Doc says you’ll get a little better each day. You’ll be good as new soon enough.”

Once he’s settled and buckled in, Jessica kisses me on the cheek.“I love how sweet you’re being to my dad.”

“Family takes care of family,” I respond, stealing a quick kiss before getting behind the wheel.

The drive to Randolph’s house is filled with light conversation and laughter. Jessica keeps teasing him about having to wear a bib to eat. Randolph’s being a good sport about it, laughing along with her. I haven’t known him for long, but I can see where Jessica gets her sense of humor.

As we pull up to the house, I glance at Randolph. His eyes glisten in the afternoon sunlight.“Everything going to be different now. I’ll have to get rid of her stuff.”

“I can send some prospects over to help,” I offer.

“And we’ll come, too,” Jessica asks.

“Of course.” I nod.

“That would probably be good. I don’t think I could do it alone. I’ve never been so wrong about someone before. How did I miss all the signs?”

“Monsters like Allison are master manipulators,” I say.“Normal, good people fall for their lies. Don’t fault yourself for being trusting. Most people are trustworthy. We only have to watch out for a few evil ones. They’re out there, but it’s rare you’ll encounter them.”

“Unless that’s your job,” Jessica says, giving me a knowing look.

“Right.” I get out to pull open Randolph’s door.“Jess, come help me get him up these steps.”

“Maybe we should have brought the wheelchair with us,” she says.

“If we need one, I can get it sent over today. I just need to call Nina. She can get her hands on stuff like that fast.”

“Who’s Nina?” Randolph asks.

“She’s sort of like a badass older sister, but kind of like a mom, too.” I cock my head to one side.“Right, Jess?”

“Wait until you meet her.” Jessica giggles.“You’re going to either love her or be afraid of her. I’m a little bit of both. Well, not really scared, more like intimidated. She’s the strongest woman I’ve ever met, aside from Mom, of course.”

“I’d like to meet her. She sounds interesting.” Randolph’s eyes sparkle mischievously.

“She’s about your age, too.” Jessica winks at me.

“Now, don’t go playing matchmaker,” he warns.

“I won’t.”

“Keep an eye on her,” he says to me.

“Yes, sir.”

We manage to get him up the steps to the front door without incident. I guide him up the grand staircase toward his bedroom.

“Let’s get you settled in.” I help him sit down on the bed.

“Actually,” his expression turns serious.“I’d like to talk to you privately for a moment, if that’s okay with my daughter.”

Jessica looks worried, but I reassure her with a smile.