Apparently, Tracker has major connections. After Jos piloted our private flight, he also had a rented truck waiting for us in the small parking lot of the tiny airport.
I twist to look at Ryder, who hasn’t said more than a few words since we left the apartment. “It’s not so funny when you’re on this side, is it?”
I try to tease, but she doesn’t crack. She’s wearing that stony, blank expression I’m beginning to understand slips into place when she’s either highly focused or unsure.
“Hey, they’re pretty cool. I promise. Come on. It’s late.” I push my door open and slide our suitcases out of the back, meeting her on the sidewalk that leads to the front door of the large, two-story brick house.
She stares up at it but follows me.
“Just watch your back around Teddy. He likes to pull pranks,” I warn her.
I punch the code in the keypad and open the front door to a dark, quiet house that will only remain this way for a few more hours.
A light flicks on, and Maggie comes around the corner into the living room, holding the baby.
“Hey, you.” She moves right into me, hugging me long and tight. I hug her back, realizing I’ve missed this place and these people more than I even knew.
“I’m so glad you’re here. I’ve missed you,” she whispers.
“Me, too.”
She releases me and hands over Quinn. “It’s about time you met your niece.”
I take her and hold her out, seeing how much she’s grown in only a few months.
“Hi.” Maggie moves to Ryder, who’s tucked herself behind me. “I’m Maggie, this nutball’s sister. I’m really glad you could come. He’s told me nothing. It’s been like prying a sharp object away from a toddler when it comes to you.”
She leans to hug Ryder, and Ryder hugs her back stiffly.
“Well, it’s late, and this little lady is done snacking, so I’ll let you guys get to bed. I have you set up in Hank’s room downstairs, but let me grab the towels for the bathroom.”
Shit.
I didn’t think about this. “Actually, Mags,” I whisper, but she’s halfway to the laundry room.
I rest the squirming baby against my chest and face Ryder.
“We’re sharing a room?” Ryder’s tone is completely flat.
“I’ll ask for sheets and sleep on the couch.”
Ryder’s gaze shifts to the large sectional and then to the door before proceeding around the room. “What if. . . ” She doesn’t finish her question, but she doesn’t have to.
“You tell me what you want. I’ll sleep up here, on the floor in the hallway or—”
“Here are towels. There should be soap and shampoo in the bathroom.” Maggie hands Ryder the towels and takes Quinn. “I’ll let you get to bed. The circus starts in a few hours.”
She hugs me again. “I’m so glad you’re here.” She stops before disappearing down the hallway. “Oh, Ryder. Watch out for Teddy. He likes to initiate new guests.”
The light flicks off, and I grab my suitcase, heading for the stairs.
“Cole.” I turn, and Ryder hasn’t moved. “What if I hurt him?”
Even in the dark, I can see the severe worry in her eyes.
“It’ll be ok. I’ll talk to him.” I hold out my hand, letting her decide.
She stares at it, evaluating her options, but eventually takes it.
