|
|
|
|
|
|
|
them as best I can if anything happens.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'Good man.' Lynn pushed away from the wall and stood up straight again, frowning as she stared at John. 'Is it true what Denise said about you getting wet?' he asked. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'Yes, sir. The stuff got on me when I came to your house from my car. But I didn't hurt anyone. Denise, a little. But she's OK. I never touched Kara.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'I'm glad to hear it. But you're all right, now?' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'You got clean, and then you were all right?' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'That's great news, Tom. It's been nice talking with you.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'You, too, sir. And you can count on me. I'll stay right here and take care of everything.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'I really appreciate it.' He smiled again at Lynn. 'Is Kara still there?' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'Sure,' Tom said. 'You want to talk to her?' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John stepped aside and held the handset out for Lynn. Her eyes filled and her chin started to tremble. She rushed forward and took the phone. 'Kara?' A moment later, in a choked voice, she said, 'Oh, hi to you, too.' |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
While she talked, John stood next to her. He caressed her back. It shook against his hand each time she sobbed. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
She's really been through it tonight, he thought. We all have. |
|
|
|
|
|