Page 87 of Fallen Stars

“Bring her in. I’d like to talk with her first. Make sure she knows how serious and classified the situation is before putting her to work.”

“Do you mind if Delilah Fox, her girlfriend and one of my best friends, lends a hand as well? They worked on the St. Agnes case together.”

“Same rule applies.” He picks up his cup, shakes it, sighs, and sets it back on the desk. “At this point, the more help we have, the better.”

Tymber presses a button on the phone and a mechanical buzz echoes from the speaker.

“Yes, Mr. Woulf?”

“I know you’re not my secretary, Lauren, but I will love you forever if you do a coffee run.”

“I’ll hold you to it.” Indistinct sounds crackle through the line. “Want me to use the company card?”

“Please.”

“Anything other than coffee? I’m going to Poke the Yolk.”

Guilt washes over me at the mention of the restaurant where I work but haven’t been to since the start of July. Gracious as Deidra, my manager, and the owners have been at letting me have time off, it doesn’t stop the pang in my gut from flaring to life. They know I am not in the right headspace to smile and tend to people. Deidra promises my job is secure until I am able to return.

The restaurant isn’t the only responsibility I’ve ignored.

Practice with Hailey and Trip has come to an abrupt halt. We also canceled two shows. Even if we find Levi this week, it’s likely our show in early September will be scrapped too. Although Hailey and Trip have been completely understanding, I feel as if I’ve let them down. As if I’m ruining the future of the band. They assure me the band will be fine and the venues will book us again as soon as we are ready.

Tymber glances at me and lifts a brow.

“Cherry Coke.” I shrug.

“Lots of coffee and Cherry Coke, Lauren. Oh, and the pancake breakfast.”

“On it.”

The phone disconnects and the room goes silent. Tymber returns to his task on the computer and ends our talk.

I pull out my phone and send a text to Delilah.

I need your help. Well, you & Phoebe.

Mere seconds pass before her response fills my screen.

Dee Dee

Anything. What’s up?

can’t say much over text but it’s about finding Levi

whatever you need Ollie

will you & Phoebe come to TWSIS so we can talk?

be there asap

“Not sure how much help I’ll be, Ollie, but I’m happy to do whatever I can.” Delilah wraps me in a breath-stealing hug.

“Thanks, Dee Dee.”

Delilah releases me and steps back.

“The Gazette’s been slow, so I have loads of time,” Phoebe chimes in.

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