Shane nodded and left, heading straight for the kitchen first. Claire sat across from Michael, in the chair Oliver had occupied. Youre worried, she said.
No, Michael said, and picked up the white knight, to turn it over and over in his pale fingers. Im scared. If this guys got Amelie and Oliver nervous, were way out of our league. Morganville is way out of its league.
He looked up at Eve, who didnt respond except to press her lips tighter together. Claire heard Shanes footsteps as he went toward the front door, checked the lock and dead bolt, and then went on to test the windows.
We should get some rest, Michael said. Could be a long day tomorrow.
As he got up, Eves hand grazed his, just a very light caress, and the two of them locked stares for about a half second.
Yeah, Eve agreed. I should rest, too.
Claire threw a stray magazine at her. Get a room.
Paying for one already, Eve shot back. And Im going to get my moneys worth, too.
She jogged up the stairs, pausing near the top to throw a glance back down toward Michael, who had the most luminous smile on his face. He shook his head, like he couldnt believe what was going through his mind, and cleared his throat when he saw Claire watching him.
Discreet, Claire said. You guys ought to hang a towel on the doorknob or something.
Quiet. But Michael was smiling, and when he smiled, her heart just soared. She loved seeing him happy. He was usually so . . . Focused. If you need anything, you know where to find me.
Yeah, you think?
He waved and followed Eve upstairs.
Shane came back from checking all the ground-floor entry points, and dropped into the chair Michael had vacated. Whered they go?
She pointed straight up.