Page 61 of Caught in the Crossfire

Thank goodness. Nicole leaned back against the counter, a smile curving her mouth. “Nothing that a good night’s sleep won’t cure?”

He chuckled. “Maybe a couple of nights. That ketamine packs a wallop. Listen, I wanted to let you know that I’ll be late again. Brian needs help in one of the buildings before the inspector comes back.”

“I understand. Not too late, right?” He’d just admitted to being tired. Working overtime wouldn’t help.

“Dean and I will leave by seven o’clock. I’ll pick up dinner for the four of us after I leave the job site. Delaney’s okay again?”

“Pet Palace is a couple of blocks from the town square. I’ll pick up dinner.” She’d ask Linc to stop by Delaney’s on the way to his home. The day’s special of roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy sounded heavenly.

“I don’t mind stopping.”

Mason wouldn’t think twice about inconveniencing himself to take care of her. This time, it was her turn to run the errand. “I know. Makes more sense for me to do it. Besides, I have a good chance of finishing my workday early.”

“Business is slow?”

“It’s usually slower in the middle of the week. The pace will pick up after tomorrow. In the meantime, Dawn and I are enjoying the break.” She heard someone speaking in the background.

A moment later, Mason said, “I have to go. I’ll see you in a few hours.”

“Mason?” Rio asked when Nicole slid her cell phone back into her pocket.

She nodded. “He’s tired but sounds good.”

“Excellent progress. He’ll be back to normal soon.”

Couldn’t be fast enough for her. Under normal circumstances, Mason could outwork her. Today, however, she might give him a run for his money.

The rest of the day passed without drama. Linc arrived a few minutes after three, relieving Rio. The medic kissed Nicole’s cheek. “If you need me, I expect to hear from you.”

“You just returned from vacation. I don’t want to disturb you on your first night back.”

“I want to help, Nic. Mason is my cousin. Family takes care of family. Promise you’ll call if you need me.”

She sighed. How could she refuse? “You have my word. Go take care of your PSI responsibilities so Darcy won’t be alone tonight.”

With a grin, Rio tapped her nose gently. “I’ll check in with you and Mase later.” He clapped Linc on the shoulder and left the salon.

“Where’s Dawn?” he asked.

“In the workroom. She’s almost finished with an Australian Shepherd named Gracie. Do you mind stopping by Delaney’s on the way to your house tonight? I’m craving their special and it keeps any of us from having to cook dinner.”

“You won’t get an argument from me. I love their food. Have you talked to Mason?”

“At lunch. He’s tired and is going to be late again.”

“I understand. I’ll be glad to make the detour.”

By the time the salon closed for business and they cleaned the workroom, Nicole was more than ready for a meal. She hadn’t been able to eat all day.

After she locked up, Linc drove her and Dawn to Delaney’s. The three of them trooped into the crowded restaurant. When a friend of Linc’s hailed him and Dawn from one of the booths, Nicole waved them on. He had a clear line of sight to her and if trouble broke out, was only a few feet away. Besides, who’d be crazy enough to come after her in this press of people?

Nicole placed her order and turned when a familiar voice called her name. She smiled at the middle-aged woman. “Hi, Greta. How are my favorite fur babies?” The woman had three Chihuahuas that were a delight to work on.

“They’re wonderful. Thanks for asking.” Her gaze shifted from Nicole’s face to the side of her head. “How are you? I heard what happened at Riva’s. Such a terrible tragedy.”

The knot that had slowly disappeared through the day was back in full force. “I’ll be fine. No more headaches or nausea, all good signs of healing.”

Greta eased closer, sympathy filling her blue eyes. “I’m so sorry you had to find out that way.”

---