“Yeah, you’re probably okay, but watch security around your place. Maybe now is a good time to visit the folks in Eketahuna. I’d never forgive myself if this guy hurt any of you.”
“Aw, I’ve grown on you.”
“Like a rash,” Josh fired back, not bothering to hide his grin. He and Dillon had disapproved of Nikolai’s relationship with their sister. They’d tried their best to talk around Summer and break up the pair. They’d changed their minds about Nikolai, although neither of them admitted it aloud.
A police car pulled up, and Nelson strode over to liaise with the driver.
“Summer will refuse to go,” Nikolai said.
“I’ll talk to her. She can do her research from Eketahuna. Are you at home? Is she home yet?”
“That sounds like her now. I’ll go and meet her. Hang tight.”
While he waited, Josh tried to remember details. The guy had worn dark clothes that allowed him to blend. A beanie had covered his head. He couldn’t even say for sure how tall the guy had been although he’d given off an air of competence. He hadn’t hesitated to shoot at Josh.
“What’s going on? How bad are you hurt?” Summer demanded.
“Just after you left, I spotted a glint in the trees. The guy was there. He had a rifle, and he shot me. It’s a flesh wound. I’m fine, but I’d be happier if you and Sam were in Eketahuna.”
“I didn’t see anything. There was a car parked down the road. I noticed it because the rear was filthy. You couldn’t see the numbers and letters on the plate for the mud. The car was empty.”
“Which means the guy was staking out Ashley’s house while you were there. He saw me with you and Sam. Knows you might be a weak spot. Please go to stay with Mum and Dad. At least for a week or two.”
“All right,” Summer said.
“What?” Josh asked, shocked at her easy acquiescence.
“We have Sam to consider. I didn’t go through hours of pain for him to die at the hands of a madman. I’ll see if we can get flights for tomorrow morning. Dillon or Ella won’t mind picking us up from the airport in Palmerston North.”
Josh closed his eyes briefly, relieved that maturity and responsibility had softened his sister’s impetuous tendencies. “Thanks.”
“I’ll send you links to Jo’s social media page, so you can message her. If you’re polite and explain the circumstances, I’m sure she’ll cooperate.”
“Josh,” Ashley called from inside the house. “I don’t want to be late for my meeting. What’s happening?”
Josh glanced toward the doorway. Gerry was standing guard and making certain Ashley didn’t come outside.
“Summer, the police will contact him. I’d better go. I have two functions tonight and need to get changed.” And have something done with his arm. It throbbed like a kick from a feisty cow. He lifted the pad to study the wound. The bleeding had halted. It wouldn’t stop him from protecting Ashley.
“I thought you were shot. Won’t Ashley cancel?”
“I’m fine. We can’t let this guy dick us around. Keep in touch and let me know when you’re heading to Eketahuna.” Josh ended the call and scowled at his wound. Close call.
“How is it?” Nelson asked.
“I think it’s okay, but I should get it looked at. How about I meet you at this cocktail thing? You’ll watch Ashley closely?”
Nelson nodded. “We’ll look after your girl.”
“Tell the cops I’ll be five minutes. Better grab my wallet.” Josh entered the house and found Ashley dressed in a long, form-fitting red dress. She’d done her hair in an up-do thing, baring her shoulders and neck. “You look gorgeous.”
“Thanks.” She spotted the pad on his arm, the blood on his shirt, and her eyes grew wide. Her hand pressed against her chest. “What happened? Gerry told me everything was okay. He told me to go and get ready. He didnottell me you’re hurt.”
“I’m fine, but because it’s a gunshot wound, I need it checked.”
“Josh.” His name held panic and concern dug into her features. “Oh, Josh! Are you sure you’re okay? You should go to hospital. Let me ring an ambulance.”
“No, it’s okay, sweetheart. Truly. I’m going to the emergency medical center. I’ll get my arm looked at, and I’ll meet you at the cocktail party.”
