Page 66 of Concrete Evidence
Avery scooted from the booth. “I’ve been threatened and nearly blown to pieces. I’m not ready for FBI protection, yet I see the value for your mother after today’s rough ride.”
She had no idea how persuasive he could be—or tried to be. “Suit yourself, but I don’t foresee a problem with my mother agreeing to protection. Maybe she’ll persuade you.”
Marc and Avery walked across the room and slid into the opposite side of Mom’s booth. The waitstaff had cleared the table, leaving her a glass of water with a slice of lime. In the dining room’s shadows,Mom’s face darkened around the bandage on her cheek, and lines etched into the outer corners of her eyes.
“Finished?” She smiled, but the look lacked enthusiasm.
“We are,” he said. “You’re exhausted, and I need to get you home, but first I have a request from your favorite son.”
“When you preface any conversation with ‘your favorite son,’ I’m in trouble. But tonight I’m too tired to do anything but agree.” She reached across the table and grasped his hand. “I never fully understood how dangerous your job is until today. I’m ready for you to change careers, like a librarian or an accountant. I’m so sorry I pressured you to look into Abbott’s death.”
He placed his other hand over top hers. “Mom, I’m trained in defending those who are victimized and stopping bad guys.”
“The danger got really personal today.”
“No need to worry, Mom. This is a part of my life.”
“It doesn’t have to be. Tell me about the stitches in your head and Avery’s arm.”
“I already did. Avery fell at the ranch. First thing in the morning, I want to arrange either a vacation for you, in which I’ll foot the bill, or a safe house. I’d like to include Tessa. It’s difficult for me to work the case—”
“And I’m in the way like your sister?” Mom said.
Marc sighed. “I need to be assured you two have armed bodyguards 24-7.”
Mom massaged the back of her neck. “I’m not going to be a tax burden.”
“Would you rather be fitted for a casket?”
She startled. “That’s no way to speak to your mother.”
“I’m sorry, and you’re right. But as you’ve experienced today, these people are serious.”
She lowered her hand. “I’d rather you take off more time and work from my home.”
“Impossible. I have people to see and situations where you wouldn’t be permitted.”
She shrugged. “I’ll deal with what happens. If the good Lord says it’s my time, no armed guards will stop it.”
“Mrs. Wilkins,” Avery said, her voice gentle. “I’m driving home tomorrow to the Brazos River Ranch. Why don’t you join me? We could drive to Fort Worth and pick up Tessa, then backtrack to the ranch.”
“Absolutely not!” Marc stood.
“Sit down, Son.” Mom pointed as though he were five. “Senator Elliott’s property?”
“Yes, ma’am. There’s plenty of room. The ranch hands know how to use firearms and are capable of keeping us safe. And I’m a good shot. The other perk is the area is gorgeous and peaceful, a vacation for you and Tessa.”
“Out of the question,” Marc said. “You make the ranch sound like a resort, and a man was killed there.”
Mom’s eyes widened.
Avery leaned toward Marc. “That’s no different than what Mrs. Wilkins and I have witnessed.”
“Right,” Mom said. “It would be a wonderful opportunity to spend time with Tessa and Avery. Can’t you join us and work from there?”
Marc had opened the door to the Alamo—a disaster in the making.
“Great idea,” Avery said. “Besides, the Lago de Cobre Dam is much closer to the ranch than here. Plus you mentioned following up on interviews there. In actuality, you’d be our bodyguard.”
