The Lost Bones by Kendra Elliot
9
“Is it safe?”
Henry immediately realized his question irked Cate. She stalled, pouring herself some more iced tea before she answered. They were eating a late dinner on their deck, the summer evening warm and the sky a darkening blue. Henry had grilled salmon and prepared Cate’s favorite watermelon, mango, and jalapeño salsa to eat with the fish.
“I’m not questioning your ability to handle yourself,” he continued.
Cate glanced at him. “It sort of feels like it.”
“What I meant was . . .” He raised his hands. “Okay. I don’t know what I was trying to say. I know it’s unknown territory for you. Even if that pothead Adam claims he knows his way around an island of survivalists, there’s a lot we don’t know.”
“Correct. I’m fully aware I could be walking into a dangerous mess.”
“I’ve had a few survivor island people come here for medical treatment,” said Henry. “One had one of the worst infections I ever saw. A big wood splinter that had broken off deep under the skin. The amount of pus that I squee—”
“Stop.” Cate waved her fork at him. “I’m eating.”
“Oops. Sorry.” Henry dug into his salmon. “Anyway, I’ve been told I should do an occasional clinic on the islands. Assess their needs. See what can help.”
“You don’t have time for that.”
“Not yet. Hiring more help should open up my schedule.” He reached over and took her hand. “That would make a good cover for you tomorrow. Pose as health-care workers.”
“I can’t do that.”
“Why not?” Excitement rose in him. “I’ll go with you. I’ve got excess bulk bandages, acetaminophen, topical antibiotic gel. We can pass it out. That should help break the ice. Maybe loosen some tongues to help find who you’re looking for.”
Cate stared at him for a long moment. “That’s a good plan.”
“If Ashlee is pregnant or already has a little one, she’d probably show up if she heard there was a doctor on the island.”
“Rich wouldn’t let her,” Cate pointed out. “He’d probably keep Ashlee away from anyone bringing medical assistance.”
“True.” Henry thought for a long moment. “But you’d probably hear from other people if there was a pregnant woman on the island. Or a young child.”
“Good point. At least we could get confirmation if she is there . . . and through her, find Rich.”
“What’s the plan if you find him?” Henry asked.
“Return with armed support. The county’s tactical response team has been put on notice.”
“I didn’t know they had one.”
“I don’t think they get a lot of activity, but they train regularly.”
“I’d hate to see Ashlee get caught up in a situation like that,” said Henry. “Rich won’t turn himself over easily.”
“Agreed. If I find her, I’ve got to convince her to leave with me,” Cate said. “I’ve been mentally running through dozens of scenarios to get her off the island. But a lot depends on Rich.”
“Let me come tomorrow. I’ll add credibility to your presence on the island more than Adam would.”
“Done. I agree with you, but what about your clinic tomorrow?”
“Julie can handle the morning. It’ll be strictly walk-ins.”
“You’ll do as I say on the island,” Cate told him. “I know you used to give orders in that busy LA emergency room and are accustomed to being your own boss. But going to the island is my mission.”
Henry had been along on a few law enforcement outings with Cate that had turned violent.
Tomorrow could become one.
“I’ll absolutely listen to you. I’ve seen you in action. I’m well aware you know what to do.” He squeezed her hand and pulled it closer, moving his face toward hers. “You want to tell me what to do later tonight?”
Cate grinned. “Damn, you’re handsome. I’ve always had a weakness for brown eyes.”
The room was suddenly very warm.
“I love you,” she whispered, setting down her fork.
“As you were meant to.”