Chapter 177

“How much do I owe you?” Tessa didn’t have the money for this indulgence, but she needed it for her peace of mind. Too bad her rent was almost due and she was about a hundred bucks short, but she’d figure it out later. Maybe one of the bosses would cut her a final check when they fired her. Then she’d have to start looking for another job immediately, maybe two. And she’d have to find less expensive daycare…somewhere.

But none of those problems were more important than Zy.

“Nothing,” he assured. “It’s all been taken care of.”

Why? And by whom? “I don’t understand.”

He just smiled. “I see you’re cuddling with your little one. I’m glad she’s okay. Mind if I help myself to some water?”

“Of course not. I would get it for you, but…” She glanced down at Hallie. She slept like a child who hadn’t rested well in days. Probably because she hadn’t.

Minutes after the last shot had been fired at the mobile home they’d infiltrated, the police and ambulances had