“I get that. Do you by any chance remember the name of the soldier who lived?” he asked.
“No,” she said. “Why is that important?”
“Because that soldier might have intel on if Jack survived or not,” he said.
“If my husband lived, why would they lie to me and let me believe that he died in that accident?” she asked.
“I don’t have any answers, honey,” Slater said, “but I plan on getting some for you.”
“Thank you, Slater?” she whispered.
He wasn’t sure if he should ask his next question, but he couldn’t not. “What happens if this guy turns out to be Jack, Rainey?” he asked.
“I don’t know,” she breathed. “I never considered the possibility that my husband might be alive, so I don’t know what to do about any of this. Can you give me some time?” she asked. Her question felt like a slap in the face, but he had no choice. He’d never do anything to hurt Rainey or the kids and not giving her what she was asking for wasn’t something he was willing to do. Hearing her say that she needed time wasn’t what he was expecting. He hoped that she’d want to fight for him as much as he was prepared to fight for her, but that wasn’t the case.
“Sure,” he agreed. “There really isn’t any reason for me to stick around here twenty-four, seven since your would-be stalker is locked up. I’ll get some information and report back as soon as I know something more.”
“Slater,” she sobbed. “You don’t have to leave. That’s not what I meant when I asked you for time. I just need to think,” she said.
“I get it,” he agreed. “Take the time that you need, Rain. I’ll call you as soon as I know more. You have my number if you need me.” He didn’t bother to look back as he walked out of her house. He left his key on her entry table, not needing the temptation to return to her place tonight. He’d give her the time she had asked for, even if it felt like a punch to the gut.