Oh. He knew, all too well. So. Want to play a game?
I want to call my parents, Claire said. Do you seriously think Amelie let Mr. Bishop stay in their house?
I dont know, he said. Call if you think itll help.
She pulled her phone out of her pocket and dialed information; her parents had a new listing, since theyd just arrived in Morganville. While she waited for an answer, Shane reached across the table and took her free hand in his, and the warm touch of his skin made her feel a little less nervous.
Until her mom answered the phone, at least. Claire! I didnt expect you to call so soon. Are you ready to come home?
She froze for a second, then said, as calmly as possible, No, Mom. I just wanted to make sure you were okay. Everything all right?
Of course everythings all right. Why wouldnt it be?
Claire squeezed her eyes shut. No reason, she said. I just wanted to check in and see how you were settling in. Hows the house?
Well, its a fixer-upper, you know. Needs some wiring, and an absolute mountain of decorating, but Im looking forward to that.
Thats great. Andso, you dont have any guests or anything?
Guests? Her mother laughed. Claire, honey, we barely have sheets on our mattress right now. Im not ready for guests!
That, at least, was a relief. Great. WellMom, I have to go. Good night.
Good night, sweetheart. Im looking forward to having you home.
Claire hung up, and Shane slipped an arm around her waist. Hey, he said. Theyre okay?
For now. But he could get to them, right? Anytime he wants.