“That’s the theory,” Sam said. “And we think she recently learned there were other women in his life.”

“Why are you worried about us?” Graham asked Nick. “We haven’t seen her since Thomas was born.”

“Because if she’s settling old scores, she certainly has a bone to pick with you,” Nick said.

Graham ran a trembling hand through his white hair. “Yes, I suppose she does.”

“I’d like to arrange for security for you and your wife until we wrap this up,” Sam said.

“If you think it’s necessary.”

Knowing what had been done to Tara, Natalie and Noel, Sam said, “I really do.”

Nick hugged Graham. “Why don’t you try to get some rest?”

“Every time I doze off, I wake up suddenly and have to remember that John is gone… I keep reliving it, over and over. It’s easier just to stay awake.”

Nick embraced the older man again, and when he finally released him, Sam saw tears in Nick’s eyes. “I know what you mean.”

“Yes, I suppose you do.”

“I’ll see you in the morning. Don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.”

Graham patted Nick’s face. “I love you like one of my own. I hope you know that.”

His cheek pulsing with emotion, Nick nodded.

“There’s something I need to talk to you about after the funeral,” Graham said. “Save me a few minutes?”

“Of course.”

“Drive carefully,” Graham said as he showed them out.

Sam slipped her arm through Nick’s and led him from the house, taking the keys from his coat pocket on the way to the car. “Are you okay?” she finally asked once they were in the car.

After a long moment of silence, Nick looked over at her. “He’s never said that to me before. I’ve always sort of known it, but he’s never come right out and said the words.”

“You’re an easy guy to love—most of the time.”

His face lifted into the grin she adored. “Gee, thanks.”

“We’ve got to do something about your inability to follow orders, however.”

“Best of luck with that.” He linked his fingers with hers as she drove them down the long driveway. “Thanks.”

“For what?”

“For understanding why I needed to see with my own eyes that they’re okay.”

“They’re your people.”

“They’re all I’ve got.”

She squeezed his hand. “Not anymore.”

Chapter 35