Page 4 of Deadly Conflicts

“I’m going to gag if this goes on one second longer.” Ally appeared in the archway between the kitchen and hallway. “Let’s go, Mandy. The mall waits for no woman.”

James frowned when he caught sight of his sister. “Do you knock?”

Ally ignored him. She was used to his bluster. “I promised Jake I would pick out a sexy genie costume so we need to go to that themed lingerie store.”

“Okay.” Mandy wasn’t bothered by the suggestion. “I’ve been eyeing a costume there myself.”

“Oh, yeah? What?” Ally was intrigued.

“Now that I’m only a few months away from leaving the courthouse I won’t be wearing James’ favorite skirts all of the time anymore,” Mandy explained, grabbing her purse from the counter. “They have a sexy librarian outfit that’s really cute.”

James smiled at the mental image as he watched his sister and the woman he loved more than anything head toward the door. “Hey, baby?”

Mandy glanced over her shoulder and locked gazes with James. “What?”

“I definitely love you most,” James said. “Have fun shopping. I promise to have a surprise for you when you get back here tonight if you’re good and avoid trouble.”

“You had me at surprise.”

James’ smile was soft. “You had me the first time you smiled, wife. Have a good day.”