Page 93 of Night Hawk
“That it?” Drake asked from the door.
She nodded and glanced at Peggy. “Thanks again.”
Toni rushed out and into the vehicle. Drake got behind the wheel.
She looked at him, her smile for Peggy still frozen on her face. “Do you know where the hotel is located?”
“Yes, ma’am.” He mimicked tipping a hat. “I’ll take you right to the front door, but I hope you aren’t expecting anything special.”
“The exterior pictures looked nice online.” She clicked her seatbelt into place.
“I think they were taken before I was born.” He laughed and pulled onto the main road. “Do you think it’s too early for one of Mom’s monster cookies?”
“For me, yes, but I can get one for you.”
“Let’s stop for some coffee to go with it, and I’ll have it while we plan our next move.”
“I didn’t ask if you’re willing to help me work the investigation without your brothers.”
“Sure. I won’t go against them in anything, but we can do a lot without that happening.”
“You really do have an amazing family.” She remembered thinking about being adopted by them and chuckled.
He glanced at her. “What’s so funny?”
“At dinner one night I thought I wanted your mom and dad to adopt me.” Her good mood vanished. “Losing my dad so suddenly when he was the only consistent person I had in my life was a big deal. I’m working through it, but I guess I was jealous.”
“Trust me, we have our issues too.”
“I know. But the love and faith you all share is something I would like to be a part of someday.”
“Too bad the guy who shall not be named blew it.”
“Actually, I don’t know if anything would’ve continued after the investigation ended anyway.”
“Why’s that?”
“Too complicated.” She looked out the window at the beach under spitting rain and heavy fog. “The weather reflects my mood.”
“Better change quick because the fog is predicted to burn off. We’re supposed to have a sunny day.”
Change her mood. No. She didn’t want to. She wanted to be mad.
That’s not what God has taught you. Forgive.
She ignored her own voice and pointed out the window. “Is that the hotel?”
“Yep.”
The three story rectangle was painted a calming beige with small balconies on the top floor. The building sat near the beach with rolling waves, and a portico covered the wide entrance.
Drake pulled under the overhang and killed the engine.
“I’ll grab our keys and be right back.” She waited for him to argue about going alone like Clay would do in this situation, but Drake didn’t utter a word. She climbed out, and surprisingly, she missed having Clay at her side.
Which was ridiculous. She was mad at him. Or more correct, hurt by him.
She stepped into the lobby, and an older woman with frosted short hair and a wrinkled face smiled from behind the desk. “Welcome.”
