“What’s got you so down today?” Granny asked as they made the drive into town.
Mo shrugged.
“That wasn’t an answer, young man.”
Mo looked out the window. “I want Bronwyn to come to my birthday party.”
“I see.” Somehow, when Granny said that, Mo believed she really did. Granny was old but smart. And she was nice. But she didn’t put up with nonsense.
“Did you send her an invitation?” Granny waved at someone as they drove by.
“Mama said we could, but she said Bronwyn’s parents might not let her come.”
“Your mama’s smart.”
“She is.”
“Why do you want her to come to your party so much? Are there going to be any other girls there?”
So maybe Granny wasn’t quite as smart as Mo had thought. “She’s my best friend, Granny. Of course I want her there. And Meredith will be there. Besides, Bronwyn’s not like other girls.”
“She isn’t?”
“No.”
“What’s different about her?”
Mo stared at Granny for a few seconds. He had to think of how to say it. “She’s not annoying. Most girls are.”
“I see.”
Mo looked at Granny and caught a weird look on her face.
“Well, it’s completely understandable why you’d want her at your party,” she said. “Maybe her parents will say yes. And if not, I might have to make a phone call or two.”
Three days later, Bronwyn ran up to Mo. “My mom and dad said they didn’t care if I came to your party, but your mom will have to come pick me up and take me back home since they won’t be home. Do you think she would?”
Mo didn’t have to think about it. “Yes!”
Five
Present Day
Mo jumped to his feet and paced by the windows lining Cal’s office. It was that or he was going to grab Bronwyn, haul her out of here fireman-style, throw her in his Jeep, and drive off with her. He might not stop until they hit Texas.
Where was Maisy when he needed her? Cal had left his golden retriever with Landry today, but Mo wished she were here now.
Meredith had her arm around Bronwyn.
Cal stood as well. He leaned on the table and gave off hurricane vibes. He was the calm center but the storm raged around him. “What exactly happened to make you think that someone’s trying to kill you?”
“I don’t know!” Bronwyn’s breath came in fast, short gasps.
“Back off, Cal. She’s going to hyperventilate.” Mo’s voice was strong. “Meredith, give her some space.”
Meredith leaned back and rubbed Bronwyn’s back in slow circles. “Breathe. I know you’re scared. But you’re safe here. No one will touch you.”
Bronwyn wiped at her eyes, took a deep breath, and rolled her shoulders a few times. “I’m okay. Sorry. That’s the first time I’ve said it out loud. I’ve barely even let myself think it.”
