Page 38 of Fighting for Tawny

Debbie cackled. “His name is Colfer. Gary Colfer. And, yes, that’s true. They work in twenty-four shifts.”

That surprised Tawny. “They’re not allowed to go home?”

“I think they’re rotated out on the weekends.”

“I don’t see the need for two guards, but whatever. C’mon. Dinner should be almost ready, and I’m starving.”

By the time Dee and Susan finished their showers and joined the others, dinner sat on the table. They helped themselves to fresh garden salad, baked chicken breasts, green beans, and crescent rolls.

Tawny filled two plates and said, “Go ahead and start without me.” She took the food to the second bunkhouse where Stoneface Colfer and Whitcomb were hanging out. “This is for you. I’m not bringing you dinner because I’m required to wait on either of you. I’m doing it to prove you don’t have the right to demand anything of us out here. Anything. Any kindness you’re shown is my choice, which is more than what you deserve. You’re here to ensure we don’t escape, and that’s it.”

“Putting on airs will land you in trouble, Ginger.”

“I’m not being arrogant. I’m being truthful. And a simple thank you would be nice.”

Stoneface Colfer said, “Thank you, Tawny.”

Whitcomb ignored his partner’s politeness.

After dinner, Dee and Debbie offered to clean the kitchen. Four others started a card game, and two went outside to smoke. Tawny headed to Bunkhouse B to finish the laundry. She pulled their jumpsuits and underclothes from the dryer and folded them. Off to the side sat a large white laundry basket. Tawny dropped the piles of laundry into it and carried it to the main bunkhouse. She sorted the piles on her bunk and told the others nearby to claim their clothes. Then she joined the card game, though she longed to crawl into bed and sleep. Her entire body ached from fighting the fire and her unknown assailant.

When Moira exited her office, ready to leave for the evening, she approached Tawny, standing at the kitchen sink rinsing coffee mugs, and said, “Come with me.” Here, they didn’t have to hide speaking privately with one another. And it made sense after Tawny’s close call today.

They walked toward Moira’s vehicle. “I don’t know whether to be angry at you or proud as hell of you.”

“How about both?”

“Yes, that. The fire made the news, by the way. Marcus has been blowing up my cell phone with text messages asking about you. I keep telling him you’re fine, but he wants to hear it from you.” Moira moved in front of Tawny, blocking her from anyone’s view. She handed over her cell phone. “Make it quick.”

Tawny typed: Finn, it’s me. I’m okay. I love you. She kept the attack on her life from him for fear he’d do something rash, like storm the fire camp and rip Whitcomb apart with his bare hands.

His response was immediate: Thank God. I know it’s futile to tell you not to take any more chances. Just be careful. I love you, too, Red.

Tawny returned the cell phone, and Moira shoved it into the front pocket of her pants. “Any news about the case?”

“I passed on the tip about Corrigan and Dickinson. They’re working on it. Seems like your hunch might be correct.”

“Jesus. Do you know what this means? The corruption goes up the chain to the director himself. And he knows who I am.”

“Jiena is aware. Out here, you’re easier to protect. Seriously, I wouldn’t be surprised if she has agents keeping watch in the woods.”

Tawny’s eyes swept the darkness. Goosebumps broke out on her skin, and she shivered in the cool night air.

“I’ve kept you long enough. Stay vigilant, Tawny.”

“I will. See you tomorrow.”

Tawny watched the red taillights of Moira’s car disappear into the night. She shoved her hands into the pockets of her jumpsuit and wandered toward the redwood picnic table, where the tip of a cigarette glowed. She hopped on top and propped her chin with her hands.

“Wanna smoke?” Susan asked.

“Nah.”

“What did the captain want with ya?”

“To give me a little hell for what happened today and caution me to be more careful.”

“Not everyone appreciated us being there.”

---