Page 83 of Missing Marcus

Determined to remove the pain, he swept her hair back from her face. “Didn’t you know? Whatever you want, I acquire. It’s my job.”

“I’ll need to freshen up.”

“Take your time,” he assured her.

When she went to her room, he dug out his phone and texted Saint.

I need Miss Edie’s ice cream. Do you have any?

Did Gabby get a craving? We’re out. There’s some at the team facility. Patch switched shifts with Taco.

Saint replied.

I’ll figure it out.

He responded.

He hesitated over Patch’s number before finally tapping out the text.

I need a favor.

Hello to you, too, Asshole.

Patch replied.

Gabby asked for vanilla ice cream. It’s at the facility. Can you bring it to the cabin? I’m taking her grocery shopping, picking up pizza and a pie at the bakery.

Knight texted.

Did you run this by Leo? Never mind. You’re operating on one brain cell. Don’t go into town without backup. We don’t risk Gabby’s safety.

Patch answered.

Shit. He forgot to ask for backup. He swiped his hand against his brow.

Gabby asked to go and I got excited and forgot. Then we argued. I’m in deep shit.

He admitted.

Ha! You’re only now realizing it? Give us ten minutes. We got you covered.

Marcus sighed. Relief flooded him with the knowledge Patch refused to let him go alone. Gabby entered the room, appearing nervous, yet collected.

He hastily texted Patch.

Thanks.

They walked outside, each gauging how the other felt. Knight took his time, helped her into the truck and slid into the driver’s seat.

“Did you want anything specific from the grocery store?” he asked trying to break the tension.

“Crackers, ginger ale, and items to make baked spaghetti. Bryanna said I didn’t need to bring anything for the shower, yet I feel like I’m arriving empty-handed. All her friends planned everything. It’s the least I can do.”

“Leo and Doc discussed how the older women volunteered to make the food. With half the team expecting babies, the grans, as they call them, dote on them,” Marcus explained.

“It feels weird not helping with her shower. The ladies seem very nice. Did you know Lizzy’s husband is a pediatrician? Bryanna says they all use him. Since I don’t know how long I’ll be here, Kassie suggested I might want to make a newborn appointment with Dr. Harris. He likes to get the parents’ history, send you home with pamphlets, and give you an immunization schedule.”

“I’ve met him. Michael sounds like a good idea. I watched him when one of the kids got an earache after swimming. He’s good with them,” he advised.