“Yeah, but think about the l-laundry.”
“What?” he asked.
“If t-they were dead, there would be m-more blood, right? And it’s s-such a nuisance t-to get blood out of your clothes.”
“Know a bit about getting blood out of clothes, do you?”
“Not really.”
“You’re shaking.”
“I know. It’s s-so annoying. I don’t know why I’m s-shaking now and not before.”
“Sometimes, when you’re in the moment, your adrenaline peaks and it isn’t until it’s over and you crash that you start to feel weird. Come on, let’s get you out of here in case they come back with some friends.”
Darn. She hadn’t even thought of that. He held out his hands and she slipped hers into them.
“Shit, girl, you’re freezing.”
“Adrenaline crash.”
“Or not enough clothing on. It’s freezing out tonight. You shouldn’t be in a light coat and dress.”
“Who a-are you?” she asked as he drew her to her feet.
“Gray Hawkins.”
“I’m Maeve Staples. T-thanks for helping m-me, Gray.”
He just stared down at her.
“Are you going to c-call the police?” she asked.
“No.”
“Oh. But you t-tied him up.” Her shaking was starting to ease, thankfully.
“Yeah, so he wouldn’t get away. Don’t worry about him. Or those other assholes.”
How could she not worry? But she guessed at least she wasn’t likely to see them again. What now? What was she supposed to do?
“Okay, well.” She wasn’t quite sure what to say. Where was her handbag? Maybe she should offer to pay him?
“Can I pay you for your h-help?” she asked.
“No,” he snapped.
Drat. Had she insulted him?
“Well, I owe you a debt. Can I do something to repay you?”
“No.”
“I mean, I should at least get your clothes cleaned. What else could I do for you? There has to be something.”
“There’s nothing.”
Ouch. Maybe if she hadn’t just been attacked, she’d be able to shake off his curt tone, but as it was, it made her want to cry.