Page 22 of Contentious

“I hope the other kids are nice to them,” Carson said, speaking from the experience of having kids mock him during their parents’ oh-so-public divorce.

“They’d better be, or I’ll hunt them down,” Anthony said with a teasing grin. “They’re nice kids.”

“How’s Rachel?”

Anthony shook his head. “Not great. She’s having a hard time with having taken the life of her sons’ father, even if she knows it was to protect them. I heard her tell a friend that she’s not sure how she’ll live with that.”

“He wasn’t breaking into their house to shower them with love and affection.”

“That’s what I told her.”

“You’re not becoming involved here, are you?”

“Nah, nothing like that. I feel for her, though. It’s a tough thing.”

“You got relief lined up?”

“Darius is coming at four after the kids get home. I’ll be back in the morning.”

“All right.”

“How long are we keeping this up?”

“I don’t know yet. I need to talk to Julian about the plan. Will let you know.”

“Sounds good, boss. I don’t mind sticking around. She’s good people, and so are the kids.”

“Don’t cross any lines.”

“Never would.”

He should be giving himself his own advice, Carson thought as he got back in the SUV and called Julian, wondering if he’d come up for air yet from his big night out with Isla.

Julian answered on the second ring. “Hey, what’s up?”

“I’m just leaving Rachel McDavid’s after checking in with Anthony. Wondering how long we’re going to keep twenty-four-hour surveillance there. The cost is adding up.”

“I know. I’ll talk to her today about how she wants to proceed and let you know.”

“Okay.”

“Question for you,” Julian said hesitantly.

“What’s that?”

“What’s going on with Cresley?”

“Nothing. We were both going to the premiere, and I offered her a ride.”

“You were holding hands with her.”

“She was wearing three-inch heels and was trying to keep up with us rushing to get out of there after the shit hit the fan. Why the inquisition?”

“She’s my client—and yours.”

“Is she? Really? I had no idea.”

“Cut the shit, Carson. You know what I’m asking you.”