Page 523 of Dark Love

Dahlia: Yeah. Most of us hit the pool. But a few of us are gossiping and getting words.

Me: Oh? Who’s there with you?

That didn’t even sound close to me wanting to get to know her friends.

Dahlia: Dylan, Harper, Fiona, and Daria are all allergic to the water like me.

How many men are in this little group of hers?

Dahlia: Oh… One of the other girls brought a guy. I’m not sure if they’re in a relationship, but they should be. He writes poetry and seems sweet.

Poetry?

I hate this guy already.

Me: You think it’s romantic for a guy to write poetry?

Dahlia: Every woman does.

Should I write her a poem?

Dahlia: But this guy is different. He reminds me of you.

WHAT?

Calm.

You are calm. Anger leads to mistakes and death.

Me: How so?

Dahlia: I think he’s a fighter of some sort. Could you check him out to make sure he’s a good guy? Daria is such a sweet innocent person. I don’t want him to hurt her.

I let out a sigh of relief. Dahlia isn’t interested in this guy. She’s looking out for her friend.

Me: Give me his name.

Dahlia: Colin Knight

There’s no need to look him up. I know Knight. He ran The Nest, a refuge for abused women and children, for a long time. I’ve brought enough women there to know he’s trustworthy.

Me: Your friend picked well.

Dahlia: You know him?

Me: I know of him.

Dahlia: Thank you, Darling.

The world settles into place. I love that woman.

***

“Where did you stash Imogene?” I ask as Payne walks into my office a few hours later.

“She’s in Barb’s office.”

“Barb isn’t a people person.” And that’s an understatement.

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