Page 28 of Dead and a Best Friend

"Well, I—" She didn't get to finish her sentence because Jessop stepped forward, wrapped his hand around the back of her head, and pulled her toward him. He planted a firm kiss on Pen that lasted and lasted.

My jaw dropped as Jessop, grinning, broke the kiss. He took Penelope's hand and led her toward the stairs. "Wait?" I finally snapped out of it. "Where are you taking her?"

"Somewhere safe." He paused and glanced back at me over his shoulder. "What Carlisle is doing isn't what it seems. Remember that."

Pen left with him without putting up a fight.

I shook my head and glanced at Levi. "What's going on?"

"I think I'd better explain, on the condition that you keep your nose out of it. I mean it, Tallulah. You can't say or do anything about what I'm about to tell you."

I sat back in the armchair. "I'll be a good girl. Now spill it, Detective Riley."

He winced. "I'm on your side. You should know that by now."

"I do. I'm sorry. I promise not to shoot the messenger. Now, tell me."

The End