CHAPTER 46
As the gateopened and Micah pulled into Refuge Cove, Naomi stared out the window at the familiar driveway.
Coming home didn’t feel like a victory.
Good Boy was still out there. Still with people who’d tied him up outside. People who’d lied and manipulated and chased her through the woods.
And she’d failed to bring the dog back here, back to safety.
Micah parked near the house and cut the engine.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
“You okay?” he murmured.
Naomi shook her head. “No, not really. Why would those men take Good Boy just to tie him up? What sense does it make?”
“Maybe it was to send a message. Maybe they want to use the dog as leverage later.”
“Aren’t there easier ways to send a message?”
“Probably, but using the dog tugged at your heart strings.”
She shook her head and drew in a deep breath before looking up at him. “What happens now?”
“Now I make sure you’re safe. Then I go back to the station and follow up on the leads we have.”
“And Good Boy?”
“I’ll find him.” Micah’s voice was firm. “I promise.”
Naomi wanted to believe him. But the weight in her chest wouldn’t lift.
“I’m sorry,” she murmured. “For going out there alone. For not waiting for you. For?—”
“Don’t.” Micah turned toward her, his expression softer than she expected. “You saw your dog in trouble, and you tried to help him. I get it.”
She desperately wanted to believe his words but couldn’t. “But I made everything worse. Now they know we’re onto them.”
“You’re safe now. That’s the most important thing. And I’m going to find Good Boy.” His eyes held hers. “But next time—and I really hope there’s not a next time—wait for me. Please.”
“I will.”
He studied her face as if making sure she meant the words before nodding. “Come on. Let’s get you inside and get some ice on that ankle.”
Micah climbed out and came around to her side, opening the door and offering his hand. She took it and eased out of his SUV, wincing as her ankle protested.
“Easy.” He steadied her with a hand at her elbow.
They walked toward the house together, moving slowly. The outside light cast long shadows across the yard.
“Micah,” Naomi said as they reached the door.
He paused, looking down at her. “Yes?”
“Thank you. For coming for me. For . . . for everything.”
Something shifted in his expression. “Always.”
