She Can Hide (She Can #4)(91)

“It’s a little late for that.”

“You can’t imagine how sorry I am.” Emotions whirled in his eyes.

But Abby had barely absorbed what he’d told her. She couldn’t deal with Ryland’s needs. “If you’re looking for forgiveness, I’m not ready for that yet.”

“I understand.”

“Who killed Marlene?” Abby’s gut knew, but she had to ask.

Just as Ryland had to ignore her question, though the uncharacteristic flash of sorrow in his eyes was answer enough. “Your brothers would like to meet you. Not just yet, though. They’re dealing with their grief and a load of guilt. Their mother wanted to kill you for them.”

“Not their fault.”

“I know, and so do they. But it will likely take a while for them to accept.”

Abby knew the feeling. “I’m not quite there yet either.”

Her father had his wife killed for her betrayal. The police might never be able to prove he murdered her, but Abby knew the truth in her heart. How could she ever let a murderer into her tiny circle of trust?

“But they both want to know you.” Ryland gave her a sad smile. “I shouldn’t have kept you apart all these years.”

How did she feel about meeting her half brothers? Surprisingly, pretty good. She’d thought she didn’t have any family left.

She escorted Ryland to the door. After he left, she looked down at the dog. “Let’s go see Ethan. I know it’s weak, but I really can’t be alone right now.”

Zeus barked and wagged his tail. Fifteen minutes later, they drove up to the farmhouse and parked.

Lorraine had the door open before they knocked. “Ethan is in his room. Go on up. Dinner will be ready in twenty minutes. You’ll stay.”

It wasn’t a question. Why did Ryland’s orders annoy her, while Lorraine’s gave her the warm and fuzzies?




With the remote in hand, Ethan reclined on his bed. He hadn’t had much time to watch TV over the past few years. Since Abby insisted on living at her house and going back to work, he was left to entertain himself.

A knock sounded on his door.

“Come in.”

Abby opened the door.

“Hey, beautiful.”

She didn’t say a word, but her expression was tense. He rolled smoothly to his feet. “What’s wrong?”

Abby crossed the room. Ethan wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close. Burying her face in his good shoulder, he felt the tension ebb from her body. He rubbed her back and waited for her to tell him.

“Ryland came to see me.” She let her father’s revelations pour out.

“Holy. Shit.” Ethan pulled her down to sit on the edge of the bed. Her mother being a former DEA agent explained why Abby handled a gun like a cop. “No wonder they kept their affair a secret.”

“Maybe.” Abby sighed. “I don’t know that it matters much. Do you think Ryland had Abrams and Faulkner killed?”

“That would be my guess.” Ethan nodded.

“I think he had Marlene killed too, because she betrayed him.” Abby shuddered. “One thing I know for sure. It was better that I didn’t grow up with him. He kills anyone who crosses him.” Abby’s eyes were misty when she looked at him. “Do you think the police will find any evidence?”

“I doubt it. I’ve talked to the investigators. Those kills were operating-room clean. Marlene’s too. Ryland has alibis for all the killings, and the cops haven’t uncovered any proof that he ordered the kills either.” The cases might never be officially solved, but Ethan didn’t see any loose ends. He hugged Abby to his side. “Do you want to see if I can find out more about your mother?”

“I don’t know. Not right now. I’ve already learned my entire life wasn’t what I thought it was. That’s enough for the moment.”

“Whatever you want.” Ethan pulled back and examined her face. Exhausted lines fanned from her eyes, and her skin was still pale. Had she lost weight? “Have you been sleeping?”

“Not really,” she admitted. “Even the lights don’t seem to help. I’m wondering if I’ll ever be able to be alone again.”

“Give it a little time. It’s only been a week.” Ethan kissed her temple. “Did you see the therapist?”

“Yes. She doesn’t want me to make any life changes right now, but I’m going to sell my house. I can’t stand being alone, and I can’t be there. The memories…”

“Move in here.” Ethan laughed. “I guarantee you’ll never be alone. This place is a zoo.”

“I don’t know,” she said, but her eyes shed their lost look instantly.

“Please.” He nuzzled her neck.

“What about Derek?”

His lips trailed lower. He pushed her hair off her shoulder to get a better angle on her neck. “You could help homeschool Derek.”

“What about your mother?”

“I believe she just drafted her letter to the pope to have you sainted.” His voice was dry.

“But we’re not married.…”

“Then marry me.” It wasn’t a new thought. He’d already intended to marry her as soon as she was ready. The idea was a huge turn-on. He brushed the neckline of her sweater with his lips. Her skin smelled like peaches.