I just wished it seemed like that kiss haunted Lawson a fraction as much as it haunted me.
I understood. He had more important things on his mind. A missing woman. A killer to find. Just the thought had me fighting a shudder.
Lawson had worked for more than twelve hours the day before, and he’d be back at it today. And I knew he’d feel every dead end like a weight on his shoulders. God, I hoped they found whoever had done this. Prayed they located Adrienne Johnson safe and unharmed. It was a naïve hope, but I’d hold to it anyway.
“We need to go, guys, or you’re all going to be late,” I warned, turning to Lawson. “Don’t worry about those. I’ll get them once I’m home.”
He stilled, his blue eyes finding mine. “Be careful. I want you parking in the garage up here and not getting out of the car until the door is closed.”
My mouth went dry, but I nodded. “I’ll be careful.”
“Call me if anything tweaks you,” Lawson ordered.
I nodded, studying him. “Are you okay?”
His jaw clenched, somehow illuminating the dark circles under his eyes. “I’ll be okay once we find Adrienne.”
That meant he was far from all right.
“Ready!” Charlie called.
I forced myself to walk away from Lawson, even though it was the last thing I wanted to do.
* * *
The bellover the door of Gifts ‘n’ Things jingled as I ducked inside. I hadn’t been in here before, and my jaw dropped as I took in the space. It was crammed full of all sorts of gifts and party supplies. There were piñatas, a wall full of every kind of balloon, an entire shelf of streamers, and another display with items for goody bags.
Picking up a basket, I started selecting items in colors I thought Drew would like as more of my idea came into focus. I pulled out my phone and typed out a text.
Me
Sorry to bother you at work, but would it be okay if I cleared out the barn for Drew’s birthday?
The structure set back on Lawson’s property housed a snowplow, some ATVs, and other larger equipment and sports paraphernalia. But it would also be the perfect place to create a Nerf gun obstacle course. I could move in bales of hay and create targets. And it wouldn’t be hard to order two dozen Nerf guns for Drew and his friends.
My phone dinged, and I looked down.
Lawson
My brothers and I can do it next weekend.
I bit the corner of my lip.
Me
I don’t want to make extra work for you.
Lawson
You’re strong as hell, but I don’t think you can get a snowplow out of there on your own.
He made a good argument.
Me
Point taken. Thank you.
Lawson
