Page 33 of Final Approach
“A bit ago.”
“And you didn’t think to share?”
“I guess I just needed to process it. But everyone will be called in to give their account, so I might as well let you know it’s coming. My boss doesn’t think it will take long to clear it all up, but the fact that it’s even happening is ... depressing. We work so hard trying to keep people safe and they just ... don’t get it. Or appreciate it. Some days it gets to me.”
He reached for her hand and held it, her palm warm but callused in a few spots. “I’m sorry, Kristine. You did everything by the book and you did it right. I don’t think you have anything to worry about.”
“I’m not terribly worried. Concerned and frustrated with the whole thing, but...” She shrugged.
“Thanks for telling me.”
“Sure.”
He paused while seconds ticked past. “My cousin wants to move in with my parents.” He almost bit his tongue in half. Why had heblurted that out? “Sorry, I didn’t mean to change the subject and make it about me.”
“Please, change the subject. I don’t mind a bit. From your tone, I’m guessing your cousin moving in is not a good thing?”
“No. It’s a terrible thing.” The only good thing was sitting next to her in a car in the dark. Other than that, all he had going on at the moment were bad things. Like memories being churned up at the thought of seeing Hank in person for the first time in a year and a half. And Corey’s arrival? Yeah, he didn’t have time to deal with that. But he would.
“I’m sorry. Legit terrible? Or terrible because...”
“Corey’s an addict.”
“Oh. Legit terrible then. But he must have convinced them he’s changed? Off drugs?”
He shrugged. “Looks like he has. Only God knows for sure.”
“You’re worried.”
“Of course. I know his history. And you and I both know how well addicts can play people. Manipulate their family and friends into believing—” He tapped his thumb on the steering wheel. “Sorry, I’m trying to figure out how to convince them I think they’re making a big mistake and will regret trusting him without making them angry with me. I don’t want to ... alienate them, I guess is the word.”
“Ohhh, that’s a tough one. But would they really hold your thoughts against you?”
He shot her a small smile. “No. But it might make things tense when Corey moves in. I’m praying about it. A lot.”
“Well, that’s good. God can use all kinds of situations.”
“He can. I just wish he’d choose a different one.”
“Oh, I don’t know about that. You never know what that might entail.”
He chuckled. “Okay, you have a point.” He glanced at his phone again. Where was Hank?
“Maybe something happened and he’s not able to get here or get word to you,” she said.
“It’s very possible.” It was scary how well she read him. “I think that’s what I’m worried about the most.”
Kristine shifted toward him. “You think he’s in trouble.”
He flicked a glance at her. “I do.”
“And you’re trying to figure out a way to check on him without possibly putting him in danger should there be another reason besides trouble for his delay?”
Did he have his thoughts printed on his forehead? “He’s got about a two-hour trip one way, so I’m still trying to figure out why he wants to meet in person. He never leaves the gang for long periods of time, so for him to be willing to travel this far...”
“He’s taking a big risk.”
He shook his head. “A stinking phone call is a big risk. This ... this is on a whole other level. I do know he’s got a good reason.”
