Page 84 of Wild Temple

I called Talia and told her the good news, then let her talk to Isabella.

We spent another night in Jatala, but were more than ready to leave when the morning arrived. Talia had arranged for a private charter to fly us back to the States. Brooke and Hannah flew with us. The crew would take them on to their final destination.

We made the long journey, relaxing in the leather seats, feasting like kings, and drinking top-shelf liquor. We all deserved a little break.

It was almost a day later when we touched down in Coconut Key, after a layover. It was time to say our goodbyes. Brooke and I promised to keep in touch.

"I’m praying for your mother,” I said. “I hope everything works out for her.”

Brooke smiled. "Thank you. It will," she said with confidence.

She gave me a hug and a kiss goodbye.

Isabella was next in line for a hug. "You saved my life. I won't forget that.”

"It's what we do for each other," I replied with a smile.

JD and I disembarked and descended the steps down to the tarmac. The Florida air filled my nostrils.

I no sooner hit the ground when Sheriff Daniels buzzed my phone. "Where the hell are you two nitwits?”

"In Coconut Key. Where else would we be?"

He scoffed. "Good. I need your asses to get down here. We’ve got another problem."