Page 32 of Down and Dirty

“We haven’t lived here long, and since it’s summer, Reggie hasn’t made any school friends yet.”

“I’ve made friends,” Reggie growled. “And as a matter of fact, I’m meeting her at the movies.”

“A her?” his dad asked.

“Don’t embarrass the kid, Doc.” We bantered easily after that until Reggie left. I picked up the dinner trash.

“Thanks for dinner.”

“Anytime,” Brandon said.

“So, you promised to let me go.”

“We just met,” he said.

I turned and smiled at him. “You promised to let me gohome, but since you brought it up, Doc…”

“You don’t feel a spark either, do you?” he asked.

I shook my head. “Not a romantic spark, but you’re easy to talk to, and I like your kid. I was hoping we could be friends if you’re okay with that.”

“Of course,” Brandon said.

I plopped down on my bed and patted the spot in front of me. “So, give it to me straight, Doc. Am I dying?”

He chuckled. “You aren’t dying,” he said. “I haven’t found a reason for your fainting spell other than the obvious previous concussion.”

“Sweet, so then you’ll process me out and I can sleep in my own bed tonight.”

“Of course. I’ll even give you a ride home,” he said as he rose from the bed. He’d leaned over to kiss my cheek just as the hospital door opened.

Brandon turned toward the newcomers. Jimbo and Keaton stood in the doorway, both of their determined gazes pegged on me.

“I’m fine, guys. Brandon was just about to process me out. You two can keep me company,” I said, trying to cut through some of the tension in the room.

“Brandon?” Jimbo asked with a raised brow.

“Dr. Myers,” I corrected.

“Doctor Myers. I’m Detective Jimbo Jones, and this is Detective Keaton Daniels. We’re investigating Erin Adams’ murder, and we’d like to ask you some questions.”

“Karlee’s sister?” I asked, meeting Keaton’s gaze.

He nodded.

I slowly slid off the bed. “Why?”

“This doesn’t concern you, Faith,” Keaton said.

“I’m his friend. Of course, it concerns me,” I growled.

“Friends? You two looked cozier than friends,” Keaton said with a tilt of his head.

I crossed my arms over my chest and narrowed my eyes.

“Faith, he’s a person of interest in our investigation,” Jimbo said as if trying to defuse the situation.

“Person of interest?” I asked, not buying it.

“I’m sure I’ve never met Ms. Adam’s before,” Dr. Myers said.

“Your fingerprints were found on some of Erin’s belongings,” Keaton said. “Do you really want to do this here, Doc?”

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