Page 40 of The Making of Marnie Jones

Whether that satisfied him or whether he was simply too tired to argue, he stood on his less-than-steady legs and made his way out of the bistro.

He hadn’t paid.

Chapter sixteen

Thenextmorning,Marniepulled her wet hair into a ponytail and phoned in her order for breakfast. She splurged on Eggs Benedict, toast with jam, bacon, pancakes, fresh orange juice, Earl Grey tea, and a small fruit salad.Going to be a long day. Might as well eat a hearty breakfast.

After checking the weather channel, she settled on jeans, a shirt, and a light sweater to carry. Undoubtedly she’d alternate between high humidity and air conditioning.

She finished buttoning up her blouse just as a knock sounded at the door. She glanced through the peephole and oddly, her shoulders relaxed. Without hesitation, she opened the door and stepped aside to let Jake enter.

He strode into the room. “Thank you.”

Her brow arched. “For what?”

“For not leaving.”

“I made you a promise, it was important I keep it.” Simple.

“I know.”

They both jumped at another knock at the door.

This time she didn't check and simply opened it. The trolley was full of food, and once she’d signed the receipt with the tip, she turned to Jake, “You'll help me, of course.”

He had the decency to waver before answering. “Yes, please.”

The arranging of food and drinks was performed in silence, and only when both had made a dent in their plates of food did he finally speak. “Olivia's doctor says she's doing better today.”

“That's good…right?”

“It's relative, isn't it? She reasons Olivia might tolerate some company. Still, her physical health is precarious, and her mental status is in question.” His tone was flat.

His behavior was scary. “I can wait until she's stronger, Jake. Don't push her on my account.”

“It's a relief you're willing to be flexible, but I don't think waiting will make any difference.” He ran his hands through his hair. “Dr. Carlos suggested I try to introduce the concept of your presence, and for to you to be close by in case she's receptive.” Marnie’s nervousness must’ve shown because he was quick to reassure her. “You'll be fine.”

She swallowed hard, and her mouth suddenly went dry. “I know you’re not placing any expectations on me, which I appreciate, but I'm placing them on myself. I’m aware of what’s riding on this.” She eased her plate away. “I'm ready when you are.” Not bothering to hide the strain in her voice, she pushed out of the chair and stepped to the bureau. She retrieved her knapsack and placed her sweater over her arm, pressing her hand against it several times to ensure no creases were visible.

He stood to join her at the door.

Finally, she spoke. “Okay.”

“Okay?”

“Okay.”

The walk from the hotel took little time, and when they arrived at the hospital psychiatric waiting room, Marnie immediately noticed a tall, beautiful man standing by a locked doorway. His hair was long, pulled into a ponytail, his cheekbones prominent and sharp. He carried an air of authority, and she was more curious than scared.

The man pivoted toward them, and his expression changed. From passive to engaged in a heartbeat. He held out his hand. “Jake.”

“Wolf.”

The men shook hands and Jake waved a hand toward her. “This is Marnie Jones.”

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance, ma'am.”

“Please, call me Marnie.”

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