Page 303 of Cold Case, Warm Hearts

“Exactly.” She sighed. “I’ve barely seen him since she disappeared. I want to be there for him, but I’m not sure how.”

“Hmmm.”

“I know. I’m feeling like he probably did when Nora disappeared.”

“I wasn’t going to say that.”

“No, but you were thinking it.”

“Don’t beat yourself up about the past. Be open to a future. A future that might include Wade.”

“I’m trying. I’m afraid of being hurt, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take.”

“That’s a change from the last time we spoke.”

“He bought me a ring.”

“What!?”

“Not recently. Before. When we were kids.”

“Oh.”

“He showed it to me. All this time, he’s kept it with him.”

“Sounds like the man couldn’t let you go.”

“I love him.”

“Don’t tell me. Tell him.” Sam pointed toward the entrance, where Wade appeared with a willowy blonde in tow. “Who is that with him?”

Emily twisted around in her seat, and her eyes met Wade’s. She watched the emotions flash across his face, and her world flipped upside down once more. Looking back at Sam, she frowned. “Do you mind if I stay with you for a few days?”

“Of course not. You’re welcome, but don’t you think you should give him a chance to explain?”

“Not this time. No.” She stood and threw a twenty on the table. “I’ll wait for you outside.” As she took her first step, she noticed a pretty young woman stand and nod at Gavin. She’d never have suspected she was her bodyguard if the woman hadn’t followed her out the front door.

Wade was right on their heels. “Emily, can we talk?”

“Not now.” She turned away from him, knowing she’d believe any lie he told if she met his eyes.

“It’s not what you think.”

“I don’t care what it is.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “I’ll be at Sam’s.”

“That may be for the best.”

Pain sliced through her heart at his words, but she didn’t respond. Sam hurried to her side and shook her head at Wade before pulling Emily toward her car. When they were buckled in and she’d started the ignition, she faced her. “Are you all right?”

“I will be.”

When they’d driven a few miles out of town, Sam grasped her hand. “I don’t want to freak you out, but I’ve made two turns and it seems like we might have a tail.”

“I know.”

“Then why aren’t you freaking out?”

“Stop the car. I’ll introduce you to my bodyguard Gavin.”

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