Page 34 of Wolf's Mark

Dead.

There was a word.

My little minion took her time getting ready for bed. She was still jabbering when I walked in, offering one of three different books to read.

“That one, Mommy. I love alligators. And wolves. Do we have any books on wolves?”

Only my daughter would prefer having me read a book about alligators instead of a happy dog or a teddy bear. But wolves?

“I don’t think we have any on wolves, but how about a doggie?”

She huffed and rolled her eyes. “Not the same.”

I couldn’t help but think about the autopsy as well as the tarot card. No, I wasn’t going there. I didn’t believe in the paranormal. Nope. Not this girl.

“Alligators it is. Scooch over, baby girl.” I turned the lights down low just like she liked them before piling onto her bed. She’d insisted on picking out her own comforter, a gift after we’d moved. She was a little princess at heart, but so wanted to be an adult.

At least her room still reflected her age at this point. I had a feeling that would change soon enough.

As I started reading, she laid her head on my arm. We’d always taken comfort in each other and I prayed it never stopped.

Page after page, her tiny breath sounds augmented the story. But I knew instantly when she was starting to fall asleep. I always lowered my voice, waiting until I was positive that she’d fallen into a deep slumber. I had a feeling Auntie Emily had worn her out. At least there was that.

The glow in the room had also given me comfort over these last few months. Reading and enjoying her company was a tangible good. Normal. It was what I’d needed after moving.

I headed to the kitchen, immediately tugging down the blinds. I’d never worried about it before. Why now? Did I really think a wolf was watching me through the window?

Get a grip, girl. You’re a professional.

One more reminder and I was going to go ballistic. Yes, I knew I was a medical doctor with special skills and there were scientific explanations for everything. I had to believe that or…

I poured wine. Wine was always a good deterrent to thinking about anything that took additional brain power. I wasn’t certain I had that tonight.

With the glass in my hand, I was ready to head to the living room to watch some comedy show. Maybe that would put me in a better frame of mind.

The fact my phone was ringing was both annoying and disturbing. Maybe Agent Drummand was finally going to grace me with her call.

What popped up on the screen wasn’t unknown or the number I remembered calling. I also debated not answering until I realized how ridiculous I was being. “Hello?”

“Sedona.” His voice was dark, deep, and sensual.

And the husky tone made me smile. “Jackson.”

“Jax, please. You make me feel old or in trouble when you use my given name.”

I settled against the counter, my mood already improving. “I’m curious. How did you get my number? You left without saying a word or bothering to ask.”

“Ouch. Well, you were dead asleep and I didn’t want to bother you.”

There was that word again. Dead. I wanted it erased from the dictionary and English language. “I had a good reason or two why.”

He laughed and it sent a thrill through me. “I am one of the most powerful men in the world. I can find any number I want.”

I heard the hint of a teasing voice and it was just what I needed. “Uh-huh. You’re actually checking on one of your plebs?”

“You are tenacious like a bulldog.”

“So I’ve been told.”