Page 111 of Cross & Crown

He still had it in his hand when Nick stepped into the

salon and shuttered the doors and windows. Kelly watched

him silently, waiting until Nick became aware of his presence.

Nick finished the last lock and turned, taking a sip of water

from a plastic Red Sox cup that was half-faded from so many

washings. He stopped short when he found Kelly sitting on

the love seat.

“Hey,” he whispered. “What are you doing up, are you

okay?”

111

“Couldn’t sleep,” Kelly admitted.

“Makes two of us.” Nick came around the coffee table and

thumped down beside Kelly on the sofa. He handed Kelly his

water, and Kelly took a sip before giving it back.

“Are you reading in the dark?” Nick asked with a quiet

laugh.

Kelly held the book up. “Why are you playing this so close

to the vest?”

Nick frowned, the shadows casting lines across his face.

“What are you talking about? What is that?” He tilted the

book toward the light, trying to read the title.

“It’s a book about secret societies.” Kelly leaned across

Nick and turned the lamp on. He set the book in Nick’s lap.

“You knew what Cross was talking about earlier. What are

you up to?”

Nick picked it up, glancing at the paper in Kelly’s hand.

“Nothing,” he said, sounding hurt.

“Nick.”

“Kels. The department puts on a summer camp every

year.” Nick tossed Kelly a wounded look. “I was on desk duty