The Summer He Came Home (Bad Boys of Crystal Lake 1)

Gerald Black was a sperm donor—nothing more—and truthfully, for all he knew, the man was dead.

His eyes remained glued to Maggie’s slight form.

As far as he could tell, she was on her own, but the love of her son seemed to be enough. He thought of what his mother had said the night before and scowled. Who the hell did he have? Christ, he didn’t even own a dog.

He thought of Jesse and his widow, Raine. If Cain died tomorrow, who besides his mother would mourn his passing? Really mourn him?

Hell, his record label wouldn’t bat an eye. If his ass ended up on a slab in the morgue, he’d make them a fortune. Dead rockers sold millions.

“Son of a bitch! I heard you were back in town.”

Cain turned toward a tall paramedic who’d just walked out of the emergency room entrance. The man had some paunch around his midsection, his light brown hair was thinning, and for a second, Cain couldn’t place him. The paramedic smiled a wide toothy grin, and it came back in a flash.

He shook the hand that Luke Jansen offered. They’d played football together, and he’d been a member of the team Cain led to a state championship their last year of high school.

“Hey, sorry to hear about Jesse Edwards. I know you guys were tight.” Luke paused and looked around. “What are you doing here? Is your mom all right?”

Cain nodded toward the doors. “She’s good. I brought a woman in who does some work for my mother, Maggie…possible concussion.” She’d disappeared inside, and Cain took a step forward. “I really should go and check on her.”

Luke’s eyes widened. “Maggie…Maggie O’Rourke?”

At Cain’s nod, Luke held up his hand. “Hold on.” Luke shouted to the other paramedic who stood several feet away, near their ambulance. “I’ll be back in a few minutes, Dave.”

Cain was silent for a moment. There was interest in the other man’s eyes, and for some reason he didn’t like it. “She was at my mother’s place and had an accident.” He paused. “How do you know her?”

Luke walked alongside him, and they entered the emergency room together. “She rents the bungalow beside my house. Moved in about a year ago. I try to look out for her, you know…cut her grass and stuff when I can.”

“She got family close by?” Cain was curious.

Luke shrugged. “Not that I’m aware of. I’ve never seen anyone visit other than your mom a few times, and Raine Edwards. I?

??ve asked her out, but she shot me down cold. I don’t think she’s interested in anything other than her kid.”

“His name’s Michael.”

“What?” Luke looked confused.

“The kid. His name is Michael.”

“Yeah, that’s it…Mike.” They stopped just in front of reception. “There she is.” Luke pointed to the waiting area. Both men crossed over, and when Maggie looked up, Cain noticed her hand was trembling. She was flushed, her cheeks rosy, and sweat beaded along the top of her lip.

“Hey, Maggie, I’m going to make sure you get in to see the doctor right away, okay?” Luke turned. “I’ll be right back.”

She held a clipboard, a pen between her fingers. Blood was smeared near her temple where she’d wiped it. Michael’s face was pale and he looked worried.

Cain winked at the boy and sat beside her. “Do you want some help with that?” He pointed to the forms she held.

“I…no, I can do it. I just…my eyes hurt. The lights are bright in here.”

Cain reached for the clipboard and gently tugged it from her grip. “Let me help. I feel like a total ass as it is. If I hadn’t left my crap on the floor, you never would have fallen.” He knew that Maggie most likely had no insurance. The least he could do was pay for her visit.

Luke approached, a nurse in tow. “This is Tracy. She’ll take you back to see the doctor.”

“Oh my goodness,” the nurse blurted. Cain glanced up.

“I heard you were back in town.” She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and giggled. “My older sister went to school with you. Patti Jones? Do you remember her? Our parents own the bakery in town?” Maggie was totally forgotten. “I think your band is awesome, especially that British guy.” She paused, eyes wide. “Oh my God, I have your CD in my car. It would be so cool if you could sign it for me. Maybe get a picture with you too?”

Cain stood. “Sure. But let’s look after my friend first.” His voice was firm, though he winked and smiled. “And I promise I’ll let you take as many pictures as you want.”