Page 26 of Gage

“No,” Lori said, smiling. “I’m going to Gage’s place for a few days—or maybe a week. Who knows, it could be longer.” She giggled, and I couldn’t help but chuckle along with her.

“That’s a great idea,” Eddie said, turning to me. “Where do you live?”

“I’m in Carlsbad, California,” I replied. “Not far from you guys. You and Lori can keep in touch by phone, and if you need surgery, we’ll come to be with you.”

“I’m glad you’re close,” Eddie said. “I guess I’d better gather up Sammy and head home.”

“Why do you need to gather me up?” Sammy said, walking in with a curious look.

“We’re leaving,” Eddie replied.

“What did the test show?”

“I’ll tell you in the car,” Eddie said. “Let’s grab our things from the hotel. Jasper is staying with Lori.” He turned back to Lori and bent down to kiss her on the forehead. “I’ll see you in a few days, sweetheart.”

“Take care of yourself, sis. I love you,” Sammy said, leaning down to hug her.

“I love you guys, too,” Lori replied softly.

I watched as her family left. Lori’s eyelids began to droop, exhaustion taking over. A few hours later, her dad called to let us know they’d made it home safely.

Lori stirred, her hand patting the bed. “Come here,” she murmured. “There’s plenty of room.”

I wasn’t sure about that, but I wasn’t going to turn her down. Kicking off my shoes, I climbed in next to her, wrapping hergently in my arms. Holding her felt right, like this was exactly where I was meant to be. As I drifted off, I felt Jasper jump onto the foot of the bed. I chuckled softly as sleep claimed me.

When I woke up, Lori’s bright eyes were on me, and she smiled.

“This is perfect,” she said. “My man and my dog in bed with me.”

“Am I your man?” I asked, grinning.

“I hope so,” she said shyly.

“Then that’s what I am,” I replied. “And you’re my woman.”

“I like the sound of that,” she said, beaming. Then she glanced at Jasper. “I think someone needs to go potty.”

Chuckling, I got up and took Jasper outside to the dog park. As I waited for him to do his business, I felt eyes on me. Turning, I saw a man and three kids watching from a distance.

I walked over to them. “Can I help you?”

The man’s voice was heavy with emotion. “My wife—their mom—was one of the women those monsters killed. They also took our dog. That’s him, right there.”

Before he could say more, Jasper turned and ran toward them. He leaped onto the boy and girl, his tail wagging furiously. They were all crying, even Jasper.

“Come inside and meet Lori,” I said, my throat tight. “Jasper saved her life—and her father’s. He’s an incredible dog.”

The family followed me into Lori’s room, where she looked up and smiled.

“Sweetheart,” I said gently, “Jasper belongs to this family. Their wife and mom was one of the victims.”

Lori’s expression softened as she held out her hand. All three of them rushed to her, wrapping her in a hug. “I’m so sorry,” she said, her voice trembling. “Jasper saved my life twice.”

The young girl looked up at her. “How did you know his name?”

“What? Are you saying his name is Jasper?” Lori asked, her eyes widening. “Nothing about him surprises me. I love him so much. But I can see how much he loves your family. You’re so lucky to have him. I’m so sorry about your mom and wife. Do you know how many women have been found?”

“Twenty-three,” the man said solemnly. “Where did Jasper find you?”

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