Page 95 of Rookie Days

“I think if you’re going to kiss me so gorgeously, we should go home so we can do what comes after, Detective.”

“Actually, we’re going to Quinn and Lia’s.”

“Are we now?” Janet arched a challenging eyebrow. “Who says?”

“Um, the lieutenant.”

“Yeah?” The look turned into a snort. “Why?”

“Quinn said we should both spend the night in their guest bedroom. Be safer there together.”

Janet let herself be pulled toward the exit; her protests, Ellie suspected, now only for form since the issue of safety had been mentioned.

“Aren’t we a bit old for a pajama party?”

“Dunno… But I guess we’re the right age for pizza and beer with friends.”

“Make that white wine and you’ve got a deal.”

“No worries. I’ll get you anything you want.” Ellie really, really meant it. “Hey, watch the ribs,” she added, jokingly, when Janet grabbed her around the waist to steal another kiss on their way out.

“I am, and you’re adorable. Okay then, let’s go. I just need to stop at mine on the way.”

“Sure.”

They ran to the car under pretty torrential rain. Once under way, Janet filled her in on Susan Elliott’s condition.

“She regained consciousness and aced all the cognitive tests I put her through.”

“That’s brilliant.”

“Yes. And she said it was him.”

“Hayes? She was able to identify him by name?”

“Yes, she was positive. He was her attacker.”

“That’s fucking awesome.” Ellie held tighter onto the wheel as the news elicited a swift rush of adrenaline. “Good for you, Dr Elliott. Can’t wait to meet her in person. What else did she say?”

Janet laid her hand firmly over her thigh.

“Two words.’Stop him.’

“We’re going to.” Ellie covered her fingers and squeezed. “I promise you; we’ll get him.”

“I believe you. Hey, are you okay?”

“Yes, I’m fine.”

Ellie did struggle to shake the sense of foreboding that had gripped her since Quinn’s observation earlier.Janet is the last one standing.She suppressed a cold shiver at the thought of anything happening to her lover, and reminded herself again that nothing would, as long as she was with her.

“Are you sure?” Janet insisted. “You feel so tense. Are you in pain?”

“No, really, I’m okay. Don’t worry. Just plenty of adrenaline flowing on account of all that’s going on.”

“Of course. I feel wired too.”

”Does Dr Elliott have any close friends or family who can stay with her while she recovers? Though I don’t suppose you’re ready to release her yet, are you?”