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“Why the hell not?”

“Because I don't have proof.”

“You have enough to come all the way to Texas.”

“That puts me at risk. Not her.”

Doc’s chair scrapes against the floor as he stands.

“You really think that's how this works?”

I look up at him.

“If Nathan was murdered because of something he knew, Claire could already be at risk.”

The words hit harder than I expect.

I’ve considered it.

Of course I have.

I checked on her without contacting her.

Her house.

Her job.

Her daughter’s school.

Nothing unusual.

Nothing that gave me a reason to walk back into her life.

“You think I haven't been watching?” I ask.

Doc’s eyes narrow.

“What does that mean?”

“It means they're fine.”

“You sure?”

“Yes.”

At least they were three days ago.

Doc walks behind the bar and pours more coffee.

I look at Nathan’s photograph again.

I should've called Claire.

Maybe Doc is right.

Maybe I told myself staying away was protecting her because that was easier than admitting the truth.

Claire reminds me of Nathan.