Page 23 of Deadly Conflicts

“I didn’t want you to have to leave Ally,” James said, standing as Mandy approached and grabbing the bag from her hand so there would be nothing between them when he hugged her. “Where were you?”

Mandy balked at her husband’s serious tone, surprised. “I was shopping.”

“I’m sorry.” James held up his hands. “I just got worried when I couldn’t find you. You should’ve texted me back.”

“I didn’t get your text until a few minutes ago,” Mandy said, her expression unreadable as she studied her husband. “I couldn’t hear it in the crowd.”

“I told you,” Ally said, smug.

“Thank you for that,” James muttered, wrapping his hand around Mandy’s thin wrist. “I’m sorry, wife. I just got a little frazzled.”

“It’s okay,” Mandy said. “I’m the one who should be sorry. I’ll pay better attention next time.”

James flashed a warm smile. “That sounds good,” he said. “How about some lunch? I think we could all use some fuel and I know how you love hot dogs and elephant ears.”

“That sounds good.” Mandy rolled up to the balls of her feet and kissed James’ cheek. “I love you … and I would love to share a hot dog with you.”

James couldn’t hide his smile at her playful demeanor.

“Oh, and they say romance is dead,” Jake teased. “That was just too cute for words.”

James shrugged. “It’s been a mushy sort of a day.”

“It happens to the best of us,” Jake said. “Let’s get man food to balance it out.”

James’ face split into a wide grin. “Sold!”