Page 126 of Homecoming

Kara returned to the bedroom as he said those words. Her eyes went wide with questions.

“Oh my God! Was he disbarred?”

“No, because no one involved in the incident wanted that, including me. We just wanted him to leave us alone, which he mostly did after he returned to the island following a few months in jail while the legalities played out.”

“Wow, and here I thought nothing much of anything went on out here.”

“A lot goes on there.”

“That’s what I’m finding.”

“How are your sons settling in?”

“They love it so far and have made some friends at school. We’ve agreed to give it this year to see what we think, and then we’ll decide if we want to stay.”

“Watch out for Gansett. It gets under your skin very quickly. I never thought I’d permanently relocate to a tiny island off the Rhode Island coast, but it’s home now.”

“My brothers love it here, and I like living near them again. We’ll see what happens.”

“Thank you for covering the practice for me while I’m away. You showed up right on time.”

“Happy to help. I’ll update you by email in the next day or two.”

“Perfect. Have a great day.”

“You do the same, and good luck in court.”

“Thanks.”

“Who were you talking to about Jim Sturgil and the butcher knife?” Kara asked.

“Kendall James. She hadn’t heard the whole story.”

“I hate that story.”

Dan glanced at the thin white line across his palm. “Ancient history.”

“Not ancient enough for me.” She shuddered. “I’ll never forget that day.”

“I remember the good things. The way you tended to me and kissed it better was the part I recall.”

She brushed her reddish-blonde hair until it was a shiny waterfall down her back. “You would remember that.”

“Let’s get some breakfast into you, and then I’ll take you to see Kirby before we meet your dad at the office. I’m looking forward to seeing this company I’ve heard so much about.”

“Yes, me, too.”

“Why do you sound less than enthusiastic about a visit to the company?”

“Do I?”

“Uh-huh.” He put his hands on her shoulders and gave her a gentle massage, startled by the tension he felt in her rigid muscles. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?”

“Nothing. I’m fine. Really…”

He turned her to face him. “Talk to me.”

“There’re a lot of emotions tied up in the company—some good, some bad, some truly awful.”

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