Page 88 of Missing Marcus

Fear trembledthrough her as she nodded and walked by his side as they rehearsed. Glancing up, she saw the shine of something metal and noticed the man on the roof.

“Marcus.”

“It’s fine, Gabby. It’s one of Saint’s men scouting the buildings as a safety precaution,” he whispered as he opened the door, allowing her inside and covering her back. She didn’t know how he did this for a living when she played spy for three hours and wanted to call it quits.

She swallowed as her coworkers stared as they walked in. A well-dressed man approached. “Hello, Gabrielle. I’m your assistant, Thomas. Mr. Wilkinson asked if you might visit him before they get started. May I lead you back?”

“Hello, Thomas. I know the way. My husband will escort me. As you can see, I won’t be staying long. Will you help me gather a few things from my office? Marcus can you help me get my list?” She handed her assistant the flowers.

She turned toward him and opened her bag, allowing the camera to capture everyone in the room as Matthew instructed.

“Here it is,” he handed the paper to Thomas. “I’ll take her back. Can you ensure she has a chair close to the restroom during the luncheon? I’m afraid she’s not fast on her feet.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle it.” Thomas rushed off to do her bidding.

Co-workers stopped to ask about her and the baby as she headed to Mr. Wilkinson’s office. When they approached, the older gentleman rose from his seat and opened the glass door.

“Gabrielle, it’s good to see you. Of course, I wish it under better circumstances.” Mr. Wilkinson attempted to block Knight, who pushed his way in.

“Thank you. I believe you’ve met Marcus. I’m afraid the doctor didn’t feel comfortable with me coming alone,” she explained.

“May we sit over on the couch? I’m afraid my wife tires easily.” Gabby leaned against Marcus as if she found standing difficult.

“Oh, yes. I instructed Thomas to bring us some refreshments while we chat. You’ve impressed me with your ability to work from home. We planned to send flowers, but I didn’t know where you stayed.”

“We’re in between housing. Gabby and I plan to search for a new home. We’re staying with friends,” Knight explained as he adjusted Gabby away from the window.

Thomas rushed in with a basket of bottled water, fresh fruit, and yogurt.

“Thank you.” Mr. Wilkinson dismissed him and waited for Gabby to make a selection. She gave a little laugh. “Go ahead. I’m afraid if I eat or drink anything, my husband will escort me to the restroom the entire luncheon. Do you know if anyone contacted Jackie’s sister? I hoped to send her flowers for the service in Ohio.”

“She flew in and picked up Jackie’s belongings. I’m afraid they cremated her and returned home. She mentioned scattering the ashes.”

Knight moved, taking a water from the basket. “If you don’t mind, I’ll take this with us.”

“Please,” her boss encouraged. “When do you think your doctor will release you to return to work?”

“I have an appointment on Friday and will know more then.” She felt Marcus squeeze her hand. “Did you have any questions about the work I’ve turned in?”

Mr. Wilkinson waved her away. “As usual, Gabrielle, you’re competent in all things. Some of the clients have asked about you and prefer to meet with the person in charge of their accounts. I hoped to give them a date to expect you back.”

“I’ll call you directly after the appointment,” she assured him as Marcus stood.

“The luncheon starts in fifteen minutes, and you asked Thomas to gather your things. It might be wise for you to take another bathroom break before it begins.” Knight turned loving eyes toward her, making her melt into a puddle of goo. She missed when he peered at her as if she resembled his entire world.

“Ah, yes. If you’ll excuse me.” Her husband helped her to her feet and she leaned into his side. “It seems like I tire easily these days.”

Mr. Wilkinson stood, appearing discomfited by Gabby’s abrupt departure.

“Thank you for your understanding and support in my wife’s time of need.”

Her boss smiled coldly. “Take another water. I hear expectant mothers need to stay hydrated. One never knows if you’ll need one for the road.”

Knight graciously accepted his offering as he led her to her office. When the door closed, Gabby turned to speak, when he shook his head slightly.

“I’m sure you gave Thomas an extensive list. With your doctor’s appointment next week, I don’t foresee you not returning at least part time. I can drive you in and drop you off.”

Taking his cue, she continued. “The list I gave Thomas only contained what I thought of. With my baby brain these days, I want to check my office to ensure I don’t need anything else.”

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