Page 98 of State of Suspense

They came together in a tight hug. “How is he?”

“Still in surgery. They said it could take three hours.”

“They’re being thorough. I’m sure he’ll be fine.”

“I really hope so. The waiting is making me crazy.”

Sam would be a raving lunatic and prayed to all the gods in heaven that she was never in that situation. “Hi, Ginger.”

Shelby’s sister held the sleeping baby. “Hi, Sam. Nice to see you again.”

“You, too. Wish it was under better circumstances.”

“Same.”

Sam returned her attention to Shelby. “I wish I could stay and wait with you, Tinker Bell.”

“You’ve got the Canadians today. I can’t believe you’re here at all.”

“I had to come hug you and tell you I love you and Avery, and I’m sure he’ll be back to normal in no time.”

“He has to be,” Shelby said softly. “He just has to be.”

“He will be. He’s tough.”

“Do you know anything about who did this to him?”

“Not yet, but we’ve got people on it, as does the FBI.”

A doctor wearing scrubs and one of those matching caps came into the waiting room. “Avery Hill’s family?”

“Me.” Shelby raised her hand. “I’m his family.”

“Everything went well, and he’s in recovery. You should be able to see him in an hour or two.”

“Oh, thank you. Thank you so much.”

Sam stepped forward.

The doctor did a double take when he recognized her.

“Needless to say, Metro PD is interested in examining the bullet. Were you able to remove it?”

“Yes. I’ll have someone bring it to you.”

“If you could do that yourself, I’d appreciate it. Chain of custody is important.”

“Understood. I’ll be right back.”

And with that, Sam had justified her side trip to the hospital.

Sam hugged Shelby again. “I’m so glad he’s all right.”

“Me, too.” Shelby sniffed. “I can’t believe how close I came to losing him. Right after he nearly lost me. It’s too much.”

“You’ve had a rough couple of weeks, but everyone is okay, and that’s all that matters. We’re here to help you guys with whatever you need.”

“I’m very thankful for everyone who’s rallied around us.” She wiped away tears. “As long as he’s okay, so am I.”

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