Page 68 of Deadly Revenge

She filled her boss in about their interview with Eric Darby. “We feel he knows something, but it’s going to take time before he trusts us enough to share.”

“I’ll let you two work that,” Alex said. “I called Harrison Carter to discuss his rally, and he agreed to stop by the Pearl Springs Park in the morning on his way to Chattanooga around ten. I figure you and Max will want to join us for the meeting.”

“Absolutely,” Max said.

“Yes,” Jenna chimed in.

“Good. I’ll see you in the morning at the briefing ... and Jenna, I hope you don’t find any more bodies tonight.”

“So do I!”

Alex disconnected.

“You ready to ride to the hotel with me to get my things?”

“Max, I’ll be fine. What kind of law officer am I if I can’t protect myself? It’s hard enough being the only female deputy on the force other than Taylor without it looking like you don’t trust me to take care of myself.”

He opened his mouth, and she held up her hand.

“Please.”

“You are one stubborn woman.”

“Independent.”

Max studied her, then resolutely nodded. “Keep your phone by your bed.”

“I will. And I’ll walk you to the door and deadbolt it.”

He rattled the door once the lock snicked in place. “See,” she called. “You can’t get in.”

“Okay. Call me if you need me.”

She agreed and walked to the hall. His lights swept across the living room, and once they were gone, she stared at the window where she’d seen the man.

Had her mind seen something that wasn’t there?

33

Max pulled into Jenna’s drive at seven thirty Wednesday morning with the scent of cinnamon and sugar teasing him. He climbed out, grabbed the white paper sack, and called her number as he walked to the porch. She answered on the second ring.

“Good morning.”

Her voice didn’t sound as though she’d been up long.

“To you too. How would you like a warm sticky bun to go with your coffee?” The buns had been Jenna’s favorite breakfast pastry when they worked robbery together.

“Mmm. Are you apologizing for something?”

“No, but I am standing at your front door with four just out of the oven.”

The door flew open. Jenna was still holding the phone in her hand. “You said the magic words!” Her eyes sparkled and her lips curled in a smile that sent his heart soaring.

“I was hoping. Do you have coffee made?”

Her smile dimmed a little. “Only one cup, but it won’t take long to make another.”

“Then you can have the buns.” He held them out.

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