Page 6 of Regards, Mia

Harrison waves his hand in the air, dismissing Emily’s praise. “I’m just doing my job. Finding people their perfect homes is my passion.”

I laugh, but the sound dies in my throat as three pairs of eyes turn to look at me. “Sorry,” I say. “Thought you were joking.”

Harrison shakes his head with disappointment. “My job may not be as glamorous as yours, but I’m just as dedicated as you are.”

I force a smile. “I think you’ve been watching too muchLaw and Order. There’s nothing glamorous about courtrooms and jailhouses in Azalea County.”

“You work in the court system?” Jay asks.

I nod. “I’m an attorney.”

There’s another long pause in the conversation, then Emily says, “I loveLaw and Order.”

“It’s my guilty pleasure,” Harrison says.

“What kind of work do you do?” I ask Jay. If I had to guess, I would say it was something labor intensive. Construction or landscaping would suit him. I can almost picture him swinging a hammer or hefting a small tree.

“I own a gym,” he says.

“My sister is his manager,” Emily says. “She set us up.”

Harrison chuckles and pats his belly. “I should probably get a membership,” he says. “I’ve been working so much, I don’t have time for exercise.”

My phone buzzes. I glance down at where it’s lying face up on the table and see it’s Elena. My heart jumps into my throat, and I grab my phone as if it’s a lifeline. “I need to take this.”

“Again?” Harrison asks.

I nod, scooting my chair back from the table.

“Mia James.” Harrison shakes his head. “She never stops working.”

His tone makes it clear it’s not a compliment, but I don’t havethe time or inclination to apologize. I have to answer before Elena hangs up. Hurrying away from the table, I hold the phone to my ear before I’m even a few feet away.

“Hello?”

“Ms. James?”

“Yes.”

“Is this a good time to talk?”

“Of course.” I rush into the restroom and lock the door behind me.

“It sounds like you’re out somewhere,” she says.

“I am, but it’s important we talk.” I take a deep breath. “It’s about Mattson. You should know they are releasing him.”

She laughs shortly. “I knew it.”

“We can still get him,” I say. “I just need your help.”

“What can I do?” Her exhausted voice sounds over the mewling cries of a baby in the background. “No one believes me.”

I grit my teeth. “Ibelieve you.”

Elena hushes the child. “I have to go,” she says.

“Wait. Let’s meet up and talk.”

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