Mindfield (Sideways Eight Book 1) (37 page)

Doobie nodded his head. “We’re on it.”

“I don’t understand why Bianca murdered children over a constellation.”

Charley smiled. “She didn’t.”

“But, you said…”

“She murdered the children due to the late term abortion. She framed her sister because she has hated her all the years for being so special she had her own constellation.”

Murphy nodded. “Ah.”

A commotion rumbled from the entrance doors.

“Charley,” a man called out, running to her.

“Hey, Scott.”

Scott grabbed her, swinging her around and kissed her. “I was so worried. You okay?”

“Oww, oww, oww, a tad tight, Scott. The vest works.”

“I heard. That’s why I’m here. I had to see for myself.” Scott glanced past her shoulder. “Hey Doobie… Murph.” Latched tight around her waist, Scott clung to her. “I’m glad everyone is okay.”

“We’re good.” Without fanfare, Murphy stepped next to her, clutched her shoulder, and jutted his head towards the entrance. “C’mon, let’s go home.”

“Okay.” She slipped away from Scott.

With his hand on Charley’s back, Murphy led her to the door, and exited. They strolled along the sidewalk in silence. Murphy slowed the rhythm of his steps to a stop. He stepped in front of her. No words, he searched her eyes. “Charley… uhm.” He swallowed hard. “Uhm… you seem sad.”

Charley’s body slumped. “I’m tumbling from a five month high. It’s draining.” Her eyelashes fluttered, forcing the flood puddled in her eyes. She sniffed and fixed her eyes on the ground. “Not sure I want it to be over.” She glanced at him.

Murphy smiled. “Tell me, Agent Faraday, is there anything else I can do for you?”

Charley’s eyes captured his, searching. “Help me catch Tangerine.”

“I’m all yours.”

END OF BOOK ONE