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