15 Lena hadn’t disappointed expectation. She’d called to say she wouldn’t be coming home. If it hadn’t been for Bale, Harlow would’ve been by herself. Much as she was independent, she hadn’t been alone for a long time. The silence unsettled her more than she’d care to admit out loud. Given how much was on her mind, it was nice to have someone around to distract her. Bale shared stories from his job at the hospital. The role was basically the same as his old one. Upon his return from disappearing with the Floyd’s crew, he’d had to take a demotion. He said it was temporary and she hoped that was true. It wouldn’t be right for his career to suffer because he’d chosen to care for his wayward brother. Apartment hunting had been a popular topic. Apparently, choosing a home closer to Floyd’s w

