Page 11 of Fatal Vision

Butchy joined them. “That’s not a therapy dog. He’s got to go.”

Another therapist in a colorful jacket sidled up to Shelby’s wheelchair. “Is everything okay here, Shelby? You want me to call your dad?”

“God no, Alicia. That’s the last thing I want.” Shelby pointed a finger at Colton. “This man is probably the only one who can get me walking like normal again. Not with a walker or those parallel bars, but to actually do it with my own willpower.”

“But dogs aren’t allowed—” Butchy started.

“He’s a suspect in the murder of three men,” Suit added. “He may be the man who shot you.”

Andwhoa. Everyone in the room fell quiet and the therapists all took a step back.

“What the fuck are you talking about?” Colton said, rising to his feet and knocking Suit’s hand off his shoulder. “I didn’t shoot Shelby, and I sure as hell didn’t murder anyone.”

Shelby grabbed her head and rubbed her temple. “This is giving me a headache.” She shot Suit a chastising glare. “He’s not a suspect, Theo. He’s a potential source. But thank you for accusing my ex-husband of trying to off me in front of a room full of people.”

Theo’s dark brows pushed together even harder. “His picture is in your file with your notes.”

Colton had plenty of experience keeping emotions off his face, but he couldn’t help his jaw dropping open as he faced Shelby. “You think I killed someone?”

“Just…” She held up both hands, her eyes darting around at the onlookers. “Can we please discuss this somewhere private?”

“You sure you don’t want me to throw him out?” Bouncer said.

“No, but thank you.” Shelby smiled up at the big man, all beauty queen charm. “He’s completely harmless. I promise.”

“Harmless?” Colton said, slightly mortified. Sure, he wasn’t a SEAL anymore, but he was hardlyharmless.

“I don’t trust him,” Theo said.

“I don’t know who the hell you are,” Colton sneered. “But I don’t much trust you either, pal.”

Sal growled again, adding emphasis.

“Good boy.” Colton scratched behind the dog’s tufted ears.

“Both of you cool it!” Shelby wheeled her chair around them. “My room, now.”

The people in the gym went back to their sessions, a few of the women giving Colton a thumbs-up or a grin.

He waved at them and Theo looked fit to be tied

Colton gave the man a bring-it-on grin as they both followed Shelby to the exit.

MEN.WHY DIDshe have to be blessed with so many alpha males in her life?

Shelby shook her pounding head as she wheeled into her room. What the hell had Theo been thinking to discuss her ongoing murder investigation—and accuse Colton of being a suspect—in front of all those people?

It wasn’t like him. Not at all.

Her room was decorated tastefully, thanks to her mother. The dove-white walls and taupe carpet had been livened up with a bright yellow quilt on the bed and pictures of her family lined up on a shelf near the window. Plants from friends along with balloons and cards added to the cheerful, get-well-soon vibe.

Shelby planted her wheelchair at the end of the twin bed and turned to face the two men standing uncomfortably inside her door. Smoothing her braid, she made quick introductions, then said, “Theo, can you give Colton and I a minute?”

Theo’s brows crashed down. “I really don’t think that’s a good idea. You and I should talk first.” He shot Colton a glare. “Alone.”

If only she could walk like normal. She’d march over to him and kick his shin. “I’m perfectly safe with Colton. I do want to discuss the case with you, but I need a few minutes alone with my hus—ex-husband.”

Colton’s lips quirked, a half-smile that normally made her blood pressure rise. Since she was so happy to see him, all it did was make her smile too.