Shot of Silence (Justice Again Book 3) by M Comley (best contemporary novels txt) 📗

today, and look at you, apart from the huge bump extending on your forehead, no one would know. You amaze me with your tenacity and willingness not to give in.”

“Thanks, I’ve always prided myself on getting on with the job in hand, no matter what diversions stand in my way. Your mother was the same. Maybe that’s where I acquired it from.”

“Yeah, she’s a stubborn lady most of the time. It was sure to rub off on you, eventually.”

Katy smiled and slipped into her vehicle. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Charlie held the door open. “Promise me if you feel rough, you’ll take a sickie.”

“I will. Enjoy what’s left of your evening, hon.”

“You, too. Send my love to Georgie and AJ. I hope he’s not too heavy-handed with you.”

Katy held up her crossed fingers and started the engine. Charlie slammed the door shut, and when Katy glanced back in her rear-view mirror, Charlie was still standing in the same spot staring after her. Bless her, she’s such a caring soul, just like Lorne.

“What in God’s name is that?” AJ shouted the moment he saw her. He was standing at the cooker, stirring a pot of bolognaise sauce, one of his specialities which Katy adored.

She left the kitchen and returned wearing a frown. “Where’s madam?”

“I asked a question first, Katy, stop avoiding the bloody huge elephant in the room.”

“Don’t have a go at me, AJ. Do that, and you won’t get anything out of me.”

He marched towards her and gripped the tops of her arms. His voice softened. “It’s only because I care.”

“I know you do, but there are ways of talking to your wife if you want an honest response.”

He kissed her on the lips and then gently touched the bruised skin around the large swelling. “Who hurt my baby?”

“A madman. You’re lucky I’m still alive.” As soon as the words left her mouth, she regretted saying them. Her eyes closed, and she braced herself for the barrage she feared was on the way.

Instead, AJ reached for her hand and led her to the kitchen table. He pulled out two chairs, and they both sank into them.

“I’m angry because I care. I’m not apportioning blame, love, you should know that by now.”

“I do and I love you even more for being the kind and supportive husband you are. Honestly, I’m fine. A little concussion, that’s all.”

“What? Don’t tell me you drove yourself home?”

“Okay, I won’t.” She smiled and touched his cheek. “Don’t have a go, please. It’s been an exceptionally hard day. Two murders, and me being within an inch of the killer…” She squeezed her eyes shut, sensing he was about to explode.

He stood and tipped his chair on the floor. “What? Don’t tell me that and expect me not to be concerned or angry, Katy. What were you thinking? Putting your life in danger like that when you have a family…”

Katy smiled and tugged on his arm. “Sit down, stop mouthing off and listen to me.”

He righted his chair and sat again. She reached for both of his hands and held them tight as she relayed the events of the day.

“Jesus. Why? Why put yourself in danger like that? Why not call for the armed response guys right away? I can’t figure out if you’re brave or stupid.”

“Thanks, I’m gravitating more towards being brave myself.”

“Why didn’t you come straight home from the hospital? I’ll be having words with Charlie about this.”

“Oh no you won’t. She insisted I come home, but I was determined to work on. My head got clearer by the hour. Yes, it’s a bit muzzy now, but that’s to be expected.”

“Because I’m having a go at you, that’s what you’re saying, right?”

She grinned. “Possibly. AJ, look at it this way, I’m still here. Living and breathing and sitting right here with my gorgeous, caring fella. Now, answer my question, where’s Georgie?”

“She’s staying at a friend’s house, it was a last-minute decision. I was kind of put on the spot when Samir asked me at the school gate in front of Georgie. I didn’t have the heart to say no, her eyes were silently pleading with me.”

“Aw…I know how persuasive she can be. She’s got us both wrapped around her little finger, hasn’t she? Hey, all turned out good in the end, saved you dragging her to the party, didn’t it?”

“That’s not why I did it. But yes, it worked out well for both of us.”

“And how did your first gig go down?”

“Brilliantly.” His face lit up, all the worry lines dispersing in an instant.

Katy’s heart warmed. “I’m so pleased. Tell me all about it. I’m dying to know all the details.”

He glanced over at the stove. “Let me finish off the dinner first. I need to put the pasta on.”

“Have I got time to get changed?”

“Sure. Do you need me to help you get up the stairs?”

Katy tutted and shook her head. “Nope, but thanks for caring.”

They shared a kiss, and both smiled when they parted.

“I wouldn’t be the same if ever I lost you, Katy.”

“Ditto, sweet cheeks.” She rose from her chair and clutched the side of the table to keep herself upright for an instant. Luckily, AJ was none the wiser because he was already pouring the pasta into the pot and filling it with water from the kettle. “I won’t be long.”

AJ was too busy concentrating on his creation to notice her leave. She held on tight to the bannister and made it up the stairs without further incident. After entering the bedroom, she sank onto the comfy mattress, removed her jacket and undid her blouse. Hitching it off her shoulders produced a sharp pain that pulled at her chest. She stood and surveyed the damage the butt of the killer’s gun had caused. Above her breasts lay an angry bruise the size of a clenched boxing glove. She winced and traced the bruise with her fingertips. Fucker, you really did a number on me. One way or another, I’m going to