Page 133 of The Consequences of Love and Vengeance

“Well then, neither am I.”

And I leave it at that. The rest of the drive is spent in awkward silence.

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

Idon’t know how much longer I can go without an ounce of sleep. It’s useless to even get in bed, so I didn’t after I got home yesterday. I showered and changed the dressings on my wound. Then I worked up the courage to knock on Ms. Lincoln’s door, only no one ever answered. I assumed she wasn’t home. Maybe her son took her back with him. Maybe that’s where she was when I tried calling her the other day.

I wish I could at least tell her how sorry I am for getting her caught up in my mess.

I’m a cop. I should have anticipated something like this. I allowed myself to get too attached, and it blinded me to all of the possibilities that could have happened and did happen.

Parking my car in the parking garage next to city hall, I lean forward against the steering wheel, pulling in a deep breath of air. I’m exhausted, yet I can’t make myself rest no matter how hard I try. I’m on autopilot, and it’s only a matter of time before I crash.

My cell phone sounds, making me groan.

Relaxing back into the seat, I snatch it up from the cup holder.

Nikki

When the fuck were you planning on telling me you were shot?

How the hell does she—fucking media. That’s how. It has to be. Why didn’t I think of that sooner?

Nikki

I had to find out from Jason. Bitch, you better be okay.

Me

I’m fine, but I won’t be in this week and probably not next week either.

Until I find Gabe, working out is of no concern to me.

I drop my phone, letting it fall into my lap while I stare at the concrete cinder block wall I’m parked in front of.

If I don’t get Gabriel back, I don’t know if I’ll ever return to themeI was before he was taken. I’m not concerned with the flesh wound on my leg. It’ll heal, and I’m sure I’ll be fine in a few weeks to return to normal activity. But right now, everything can fuck right off until he’s safe.

Another chime sounds, breaking me from my thoughts. I pick my cell phone back up, looking at the message.

Nikki

Fine doesn’t cut it. Are you still in the hospital? How bad?

Me

Not bad at all. I’m lucky, and I’m already home.

Nikki

Vague much?

Me

It’s too much to get into over text. I’ll tell you when I return.

Nikki

Take care of yourself. If you need ANYTHING, let me know.

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