“That’s okay,” Sherlock said as she stuffed her gloves into her leather jacket pocket. “I know it’s early, but Tommy is very concerned, well, no, he’s scared for you, upset he couldn’t be here right away, and that’s why he asked me to be here to keep you safe.” Sherlock paused a moment, looked at Mia Briscoe, said slowly, “I have to say I was very concerned. I’ve never seen Tommy scared. He’s usually unflappable, like his dad, and his mom, too.”

Mia swallowed at the sudden memory of Serena saying, Mia, his mom is awesome. She’d fit under my armpit, but she runs the show, all four giant-size sons and her giant husband. Then she’d waggled her eyebrows, whispered, Maybe she can teach me how if Tommy and I decide to—well, we’re both young, and who knows?

Mia brought herself back, swallowed tears. “I don’t know Tommy’s parents well myself, only met them at Serena’s memorial, ah, but Tommy’s incredible. We’ve stayed close, emailing and calling. I was thrilled for him when he graduated from the FBI Academy. I remember he told me his dad was over the moon, kept pumping his hand and bear-hugging him.”

Sherlock said, “Tommy’s dad, Mr. Maitland, is my husband’s boss. We are very fond of him and his family.”

Mia ushered Sherlock into her living room, waved her to Mia’s own favorite chair, and stood over her, still aching all over. She felt clumsy and pathetic next to this amazing woman. “Ah, I was just going to make coffee. Would you like some? And maybe an English muffin slathered thick with chunky peanut butter?”

Sherlock could see Mia was hurting and said matter-of-factly, “Why don’t you take me to your kitchen. You will sit down and tell me where everything is and I’ll make us both breakfast. When was your last dose of aspirin?”

Mia wished she didn’t feel like the remains of a lousy meal. She wished she could fold herself up and sleep. “Three aspirin, about fifteen minutes ago.”

“Good, they should kick in soon. I won’t burn the muffins, I promise. Come along before you fall over.” Sherlock nodded toward the living room window. “This is an incredible view you have. When you have friends over do they ignore you and simply stare out the window down on Central Park?”

“Usually. All I have to do is put a glass of wine in their hands and let them look to their heart’s content. The view is gorgeous, but prepare yourself for a very small kitchen. At least it’s open so you can see the view while you cook.” Mia stopped in her kitchen doorway. She was supposed to sit down and let Sherlock feed her?