Page 125 of The Search

“That’s nice. I know I love you.”

Jane nodded. “I went up on the hill and visited Bonnie’s grave after you left yesterday afternoon.”

Eve went still. “Why did you do that?”

“I don’t know. I just did. And I decided it doesn’t matter that you still love her. I’m not nice like she was, but I can do things for you that she couldn’t. She wouldn’t have been able to take care of you like I can. I’m smart and I know the same things that you do. That’s got to mean something.”

“It means a great deal.”

“So you’re lucky to have me.”

“Oh, yes.”

Jane gave her a disparaging glance. “You’re not going to cry?”

Eve shook her head. “I wouldn’t think of it.” She cleared her throat. “When you’re only being sensible.”

“Good. Crying would be silly.” Jane walked toward the wolf. “Now show me what to do to take care of Maggie.”

Sarah tensed as Logan walked into the hospital waiting room. “Is she going to live?”

“I don’t know. They were able to get the bullet out, but she’s in critical condition. It’ll be touch and go for a while.” He sat down and buried his face in his hands. “I just don’t know.”

She was silent a moment. “She’s been with you a long time.”

“Almost fifteen years.” He raised his head to reveal a haggard face. “We’ve worked together for so long, she’s like family. But I didn’t think Rudzak— I thought she’d be safe.”

“She was behind electric fences with security guards.”

“It shouldn’t have happened. I should have been more careful. I should have stopped her and Bassett from taking those walks.”

“It was safe as long as they stayed away from the gates. That’s the only place where there’s a clear view to get a shot. You couldn’t know that the shooter would target Booker first to draw us to the gates.”

“That doesn’t mean I’m not responsible. I should have—”

“Shut up, Logan.” She took his hand and held it between hers. “You did the best you could. You’re not a fortune-teller and you’re sure not God. So stop blaming yourself.”

He smiled with an effort. “Thanks for the sweet words.”

“You want sweet?” She blinked the tears back. “Sorry. I can only be myself. If I could take this away from you, I would. At least Booker and Bassett are going to be okay. The doctor said Booker is being taken off the serious list, and Bassett’s only got a nasty wound in the hand.”

“He’s pretty shaken up. He wants to finish the research at Dodsworth.”

“He knows Dodsworth may not be safe either.”

“He’d rather take his chances there. I tend to agree. Dodsworth is safer.” He stood up. “I need to move. Do you want some coffee from the machine?”

She shook her head.

“I’m having Lopez pack your bag. Galen’s going to pick you and Bassett up and take you to Dodsworth.”

“Me?”

“I have to stay here, and I want you where Galen can protect you. He has to be at Dodsworth.”

“Did it occur to you that I might want to stay with you?” she asked unevenly.

“It occurred to me. In spite of your lack of tender feelings for me.” He gently touched her cheek. “But if you want to help me, you’ll go to Dodsworth. I don’t need to worry about you too.”