Magic Line (26 page)

‘With the County . . . as a what, detective?'

‘Yes. But it's different, you know . . . getting cases ready for court. I'll work Monday through to Friday like you, only not responding to current cases so the hours are more predictable. We can have weekends together, imagine that. And we'll have my retirement income, Sarah; we can buy this house right away, not have to rent any longer.'

‘Wow. This is what you've been so quiet about?'

‘Was I quiet? I've been working on it for a while and once I decided I wanted it . . . I guess I got kind of preoccupied. Sorry about that.'

‘Wow. It helps with everything, doesn't it? Having more money and a better schedule . . . It's an interesting new skill set for you to acquire, too, isn't it? The other side of the law.'

‘The end game. Yes.' He turned toward the street, saying, ‘Sounds like the moviegoers are back.'

Sarah heard Sam in the driveway, saying, ‘Thanks for the movie date, girls.' Doors slammed and Aggie walked through the carport onto the patio brick, heading for her little house. Yawning, peering at her watch, she said, ‘Good heavens, that goofy pirate kept me awake after nine o'clock!'

Denny was behind her, giggling. ‘Sam and Grandma both think Jack Sparrow needs a haircut,' she said, wrinkling her nose. ‘I mean, they
so
don't get it.'