Page 107 of Concrete Evidence
“Doesn’t do any good to rake me over the coals when the deed is done.”
“You scared me and your granddad.”
“I’m sorry. We’ve all been frightened out of our wits, but talking to my parents face-to-face had solo stamped all over it.”
“I’d have taken you.”
“No, Marc. I needed to show Dad strength, courage, and say I’d forgiven him and Mom.”
“You didn’t talk to your mother?”
“She had a nail appointment.”
“Is there a reunion in the future or hope of one?”
She shook her head. “He laughed at me. But I stayed in control. For... a moment I thought he might mellow.” She blinked. “He’d give me a name of who might be behind the crimes if I convince Granddad to put him back in the will.”
Marc had arrested a few lowlifes in his career, but animals cared more for their young than Avery’s parents. “Good thing you went alone. I’d have leveled him.”
“He’d have sued the FBI.” Avery wrung her hands. “I don’t hate them. Just feel sorry for their selfishness.”
“Is it one parent more than the other?”
“Not really. My dad has the most issues with writing bad checks and gambling. Mom enjoys spending money.”
They looked out on the flower garden and gazebo, where Tessa must have gotten caught in the rain. She wore earbuds and had anchored her phone into cutoffs. Her lithe body moved to a dance, the rhythm playing in her ears.
“My talented and beautiful little sister.” The moment seemed reverent, as though peering inside Tessa’s heart. Odd for him to think with such sentimentality.
“Each move is precise, graceful,” Avery said.
“She told me our father paid for her dance lessons. I hope she wants to continue once we’re in Houston.”
“Artistic expression helps work through grief.”
“I’ll encourage it. Add counseling to the mix. She’s been through tough times, and I’m not equipped to ask the right questions.”
“Smart man.”
“A timid man when I think about the responsibility. Tessa and I barely know each other.” He smiled at her battling the rain to run to the house. “I may come begging for your help. You have experience with teen girls.”
She tossed him a dimpled grin. “You have it. I like Tessa. We have much in common.”
“I’m sure Tessa and I will have our ups and downs, but I’m committed to making it work. She brings out a powerful protective instinct.” So did the woman beside him, but unlike the new relationship with Tessa, he wanted the one with Avery to develop slowly. Danger had brought them together, but a strong friendship and love would make sure they lasted. He’d held off long enough and turned to her. Fighting the effect she had over him neared impossible. He grasped her shoulders. “Avery, do you have a clue how much you mean to me?”
Her lips quivered. “Do you have a clue how much you mean to me?”
Marc sheltered her in his arms and kissed her tenderly, then deeper as they embraced.
“About time.” Tessa stood in the doorway. “Thought you two were blind to what the rest of us had figured out.”
He stepped back. Little sister had lousy timing. “I’ve been working on a case.”
“I see.” Tessa’s voice was laced with humor.
Avery glanced up at him and grinned before she turned to Tessa.
“Your face is red, Avery. Tell you what, I’ll leave you two alone. Dinner is ready, but I’ll tell Mia you’re working on a case.”
