“Positive. I can walk fine. I can manage the shower, get snacks, and use the microwave in the kitchen. The woman who comes in to clean can change the bed and do my laundry. I’m cutting back on my meds. I’ll get along fine. But what I really need is to get back to work. For now, I can work in my study. Between the computer and my phone, I should be able to stay in touch with my employees and the clients.”

Allison faked a smile. “So you won’t be needing me for anything either, right?”

Don’t you know how much I want to help you, Burke? Don’t you know what I’d give if we could be close again ?

She shoved the unspoken words to the back of her mind.

“I’m trying not to need you, Allison. You never signed on to take care of me. If you had any sense, you’d walk out today.”

His words cut deep. She willed herself to ignore them.

“You’re going to need a car,” she said. “But you won’t be allowed to drive until you’re off the opioid pain meds.”

“That won’t be much longer. I’ve already got my dealer on the lookout for a car I can buy with the insurance money from the Porsche. Until I get it, you might have to chauffeur me once in a while. Or maybe Brianna can do it—although I’m still not happy about you trading in the Lexus. That car was my gift to you.”

“Brianna needed a car, and that was the easiest way to get her one. She’s looking for a job now, and she’ll be busy with her community service. She may not have much spare time.”

“We’ll work it out.” He picked up the newspaper again, then glanced at her as if surprised to see that she hadn’t gotten up and left. “Anything else?” he asked.

“Yes.” Allison braced herself. “There is something else. I’ve accepted a part-time job, starting tomorrow. I’ll be working for the agency, with Garrett.”

The newspaper fell to the floor, scattering pages. “Are you out of your mind?” He stared at her. “I don’t want you anywhere near the agency. Not with Garrett in charge. I don’t trust the man anymore, and I trust his new friends even less.”

“Listen to me, Burke.” Allison leaned toward him, her eyes holding his. “I don’t trust Garrett either. Until you’re strong enough to go back to work full-time, you’ll need somebody at the agency to be your eyes and ears.”