Page 136 of Until the Sea Runs Dry

But that was the last thing she wanted. She’d never feel as if she could speak freely with Logan’s staff running around, discreet as they were.

“No. I haven’t been out of the house today. I’ll meet you there after I’ve checked in with the vet.”

“Sure thing. I’ll be there in twenty or so minutes.”

They ended the call. The vet was happy with Loki’s progress. The fact that he hadn’t been sick again and was now eating was a good sign. He warned that Loki shouldn’t have much exertion as his little body would still be fighting any toxins that might be working through his system, but a short trip where he didn’t have to walk much, would be fine.

After her police scare, Jane knew not to attempt driving again. But, not wanting to trouble Kitty, she summoned a car from the service Logan had an account with, and arrived at the park. A few minutes later, Clare’s Prius parked close by. She appeared with a bright smile and two cups of Starbucks’ coffees.

“Thought you might like a hot drink,” she said, handing one to her as they hugged. “It can get chilly out here at night.”

“You are fab, thank you,” Jane replied.

Loki planted himself beside Jane and refused to budge, wary of the other dogs he could see, although none were close. His tail wagged when Clare bent down to greet him, but he returned to his watchful sentry, refusing to play. Jane had never seen him like this.

“I think he’s feeling vulnerable,” Jane explained.

“So would I if I’d had the night he had. What a brave little trooper for coming out.”

“We’re barely out,” Jane laughed. “The car dropped us off a few feet away and we’ve pretty much sat here since.”

Clare shrugged. “Well, it’s something. Little steps, right, Boy?”

Loki’s ears pricked up and twisted round to her, though he kept his eyes on the other four-legged visitors.

“So, how are things with you and Ken?”

At the mention of his name, Clare smiled happily.

“At the risk of jinxing it all, really well.”

“That’s wonderful, Clare. What’s he like?”

Clare stared across the park, contemplating the question.

“He’s extremely courteous, an old-fashioned gentleman. You know, opens doors for me, pays the bills instead of expecting to go Dutch like most of the guys I’ve come across on dating apps. He’s also a great listener and actually interested in what I say: I swear he listens to every word. And he’s so respectful. Can you believe he hasn’t actually made a move on me? We’ve only kissed so far and held hands, and in this town, that’s so unbelievably rare.”

She hugged herself. “He makes me feel so special, like I’m the center of his world and the only woman he has eyes for.”

The moment she’d said the words, Jane felt her smile crack. She ducked her head, hoping Clare wouldn’t see the glimmer of tears that threatened to spill over. But she was too late.

“What’s wrong? Did I say something to upset you?”

Jane brushed aside her tears, angry at herself for being emotional when Clare deserved this moment of happiness. “I’m sorry. It’s not you. I’m really happy you’ve got Ken now, it’s just… Logan said he loved me last night.”

Clare’s concerned frown deepened in confusion. “And that’s terrible because you don’t know who you are?”

“No… I mean, yes, that’s one thing I’m concerned about, but that isn’t what’s got me so worked up.”

She pulled up a screenshot of Logan with his mysterious woman on her phone and showed it to her.

“He told me he had to work today, but then he was caught with this woman. They’re obviously on a date.”

Clare studied the image quietly, the emerald in her eyes almost glowing beneath the light of a streetlamp.

“I’m not sure we should jump to conclusions…”

“He said he had to work. That it was important for him to go.”

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