Page 79 of Beyond the Darkness

Unbelievably, Hudson’s agents had been fielding so many offers of horror films and gruesome crime shows since his name had hit the headlines again.

“I haven’t said yes yet, because I wanted to run it by you first.And I didn’t want to do that until you got the all-clear from the cops.”He took a deep breath.Here came the crucial information.“It’s going to mean filming in Canada for six months.Vancouver.”

He caught the look of uncertainty that came over Luke’s face and before he could reply, Hudson rushed on, “I want you to come with me.Or at least think about it.It’s just six months, but the break from Blyham could be good for you.Good for us.Maybe the paper will let you take a sabbatical.”

Luke let out a long breath.“Wow.I wasn’t expecting that.”

“And does the idea appal you?”

Now Luke gazed at him earnestly.“The exact opposite.I never thought I’d say this, but getting away from Blyham is exactly what I need right now.”

Relief washed over Hudson as a broad smile spread across his face.“And it’s not forever.Six months.We can come back here afterwards and see how you feel about the place then.”

Luke nodded.“It’s a perfect idea.I’m sure I can get the time off.Maybe even start writing that novel I’ve always wanted to.”

Hudson leapt out of his seat and crouched beside Luke’s chair, taking his hand.“You mean that?You really want to come with me?I won’t take the job if you’re not sure.”

“I’ll be pissed off if you don’t take it.Of course I’ll come with you.After what we’ve been through, I can’t think of anything better than spending time together away from here.”

Hudson pressed his lips to Luke’s.This was all for real.They had faced the horrors of this city, and had survived.Now they had the opportunity of experiencing something new.Something positive.Something for both of them.

They were in it together, and Hudson felt certain that they always would be.