Page 108 of Gideon

Des Moines police were on their way to investigate how the mayor of Asher had been shot, and Peters and Cole were still being held at Fairfax’s house until they were transferred into police custody.

“I didn’t think he’d make it,” Nikki said, sitting down next to Gideon, who was resting his head in his hands.

“It’s another miracle.”

“We’ll see. The doctor said there could be complications. Possible brain damage.” She handed him a piece of paper.

“What’s this?”

“Mae brought it in. It’s the statement Fairfax was writing.” It had splatters of blood on it.

“He didn’t get very far.”

“No, but you have the recording to go with it,” Nikki said. “That should be more than enough.”

“I guess if his brain damage is extensive, that’s a pretty severe life sentence in and of itself.”

“Yeah. And maybe it’s a horrible thing to say, but I’d be relieved. He wouldn’t be able to hurt anyone ever again.”

“It won’t be long, and Asher will begin to rebuild.”

“After all the red tape is sifted through. Then there’s the drought.” She rubbed her eyes.

“What can we do but believe for another miracle?”

All she could manage was half a tired laugh. “Yeah.”

“You need to get some sleep.”

“So do you. But we’ve got to be ready when the police arrive.”

“I’m sure there’s a bed around here?—”

“I’ll be fine,” she said. “But you don’t have to stay.”

“I’m not going to leave you here on your own.” Gideon took her hand. “We’ve been through a lot.”

“I wonder how the church will respond when we tell them.”

“My dad will be bummed he missed all the action.”

“He can always visit Fairfax in the hospital. Bring him some flowers.”

“He’d love that.” Gideon laughed, then it died off. “The church is going to need a pastor now, you know.”

“I hope you’re not suggesting I do it. I’m not called to that, trust me.”

“Maybe.”

“There’s no maybe about it. I saw what it did to my dad and my mom. I don’t want to be a part of that again.”

“You don’t have to be. You know the warning signs to look out for. But the sheep need a shepherd.”

“Stop it.” She laughed. “I’m too tired for this.”

“I think you should at least consider it.”

“I will, but I’m not making any more promises.”

---