She had an odd feeling he wasn't speaking of blood relatives when he spoke of family. She frowned, but turned at the sound of approaching footsteps. Jake opened the door and entered the room
"Thought I heard voices,” he commented, stopping just inside the doorway. “I hate to have to rush you, Nik, but—"
"Trevgard's getting anxious,” she finished with a sigh.
"I just made a fresh pot of coffee. Want a cup?"
"Yes.” She tried to ignore the ache that ran through nearly every muscle and pushed to her feet.
“Michael?"
"If it's strong and black, I'll drink it."
He stood quickly, touching her elbow as she swayed slightly. She smiled her thanks and moved into the office, aware of Michael close behind her. Ready to catch her if she fell, she thought wryly, though her weakness was no joke.
Jake placed her coffee on the desk. Michael accepted his cup with a nod and sat on the edge of her desk.
Trevgard swung around to face her as Jake returned the coffeepot to the hot plate. “So tell me, did you find Monica or not?"
Nikki sighed. “Yes, I found her.” She didn't mention the fact that Monica might be dead. She didn't have the strength to face the old man's fury right now.
"And?” he demanded.
"And I'll try to bring her back with me."
Not alone, you won't.
She looked at Michael warily, wishing she knew more about him. Instinct told her to trust him, yet there was something about him that made her uneasy. She would not refuse his help, however. Nothing on this earth could make her go into that building alone to find Monica. Not with a young madman on the loose, wanting her.