Page 49 of Cold Light of Day

“Can’t a guy drop in to see his family now and then?”

“Sure, but you usually have more than one reason.”

His lips flattened and his eyes grew dark. “I already told you. I heard about what happened to Ross, and I was worried...about you.”

His brotherly concern warmed her. Autumn missed him but understood he enjoyed his job and couldn’t necessarily control where they put him. He’d been the trooper here in the ShadowGap region until a year ago when they decided they didn’t need a trooper, especially one they couldn’t afford. Maybe this new criminal activity would bring him back.

“Angie and Craig have my back.” She didn’t mention that Grier had been the one to have her back more than once recently.

“That brings me to my question. What was Grier Brenner doing there with you? He said you saved his life.”

Since Grier showed up, Nolan had come to Shadow Gap a few times to check in with her. The two had met, and Dad spoke highly of Grier.

Something in Nolan’s tone made her bristle. “Is this part of the investigation into the shooting?”

“No, this is your brother wanting to understand what happened out there tonight.”

She dragged her gaze over to the businesses along Main Street and then the police station. “I asked him to meet me at the house. When I came home, I found the place dark and went in search of Dad. Grier showed up and fought with the shooter. Dad was shot, and Grier went after the guy.”

“And then you saved his life.” Nolan crossed his arms. “Why did you need to meet him?”

“What is this? An inquisition?”

“Hardly.”

“Then why ask about him? We have bigger concerns here, and you know it.”

“The reason I brought up Brenner is because it seems to me there’s something going on with the two of you.”

“How did you get that out of the five minutes he was there?” And what did it matter to Nolan?

“That’s not a denial.”

“There’s nothing to deny.” She opened her vehicle door.

“I’m just worried about you, but you’re right. There are more important things to be concerned about than whether Grier Brenner is someone you should get involved with.”

Incredulity exploded in her chest. Why did he think he had any say in who she got involved with? But she held back her anger. Nolan was her older brother and probably thought that gave him a say. “His actions prove he’s a good guy, but there’s nothing going on between us. And if there was, why would that matter?”

“I don’t want you to get hurt. You don’t know anything about him. Where he’s from or his background. He’s a stranger. You shouldn’t trust him.”

And Grier doesn’t know what I’ve been through.How messed up I am.

Autumn knew Nolan thought the same. He might even be as concerned for Grier as he was for his own sister.

“What do you know about it? Why bring him up at all? Oh...” She should have known. “Dad. He’s been talking to you.”

“Not much. Dad mentioned him a few times.”

“I don’t know what he said to you, Nolan, but Grier brought Dad home one night when he was too drunk to drive. I’m sure Dad failed to mention that part of whatever story he concocted.”

“Relax. I...just don’t want you to get hurt. You’ve been through enough already, and considering the last few days, well, let’s just say that sometimes a person can look for help in the wrong places.”

“You don’t need to worry about me. I’m the chief of police, remember? I can take care of myself. As for Grier, he’s just a guy who is willing and able to help at times.” And she found herself trusting him, turning to him more than the people in her own department. Maybe if Craig wasn’t Wally’s nephew...“He came to Shadow Gap to fish and ended up staying. I can name a few people living in town right now who hadn’t intended to stay but fell in love.”

Oops. That was the wrong choice of words. She and Grierwere not in love. Nolan arched a brow. Was that what concerned him? Big brothers could be a real pain. She got into her vehicle and started it up, then lowered the window. “I’m staying at Birdy and Ike’s until the house is no longer a crime scene. She has a couple of extra beds for stragglers if you need one.”

“I know.” He cracked a grin. “I wouldn’t mind a bowl of her razor-clam soup, plus a chance to see them.” He opened the door to the Interceptor he was driving and tossed her a wave. “Thanks, sis. I’ll work on Dad’s protection detail, get the investigation into the shooting tonight wrapped up, and catch up with you later.”

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