Sky High (A Nicki Valentine Mystery Book 2) by Susan O'Brien

would stretch. Most of their shorts had that ability, thanks to elastic waistbands that tightened or loosened with interior buttons. Come to think of it, I needed that feature on most of my pants. Maybe that’s how I’d make my first million. Adult, adjustable clothing. (I can’t be the only non-pregnant woman who’s tempted to shop in the maternity section.)
    In the “we better not freaking need these” category, I packed a thermometer, various children’s medicines, my bathing suits, and every beach cover-up I owned.
    After a two-hour nap, I showered, researched post-911 travel regulations, measured and weighed our luggage, unpacked a few items, and loaded a carry-on bag with “these better not get lost or we’re screwed” necessities, including my iPad, which I topped off with new kids’ apps and shows. I also texted Kenna an update and gave her protected online access to the stripper photo, asking for her input.
    I did it all without knowing if we were going anywhere, but also knowing that if we did, we’d be prepared—and if we didn’t, our summer clothes would be folded and organized before returning to their storage corner.
    Sophie woke at seven, and I texted Dean at eight. As a former military guy, maybe he was an early riser.
    Ready for Florida if you are , I texted. The next flight leaves at noon. My kids can stay with my aunt in Siesta Key.
    I didn’t mention where I’d bunk. Liz had room for me, but Dean couldn’t stay there, and if he stayed near Smyth, I’d probably join him. Unpredictable coming and going from Liz’s might upset Jack, Sophie, and (most of all) me.
    I’m emailing Frank now , Dean responded. We’ll get the latest and then decide. I’ll copy you. And I got in touch with the Parks and Rec guy who found Bruce’s car. Not much to go on there. It was found in a normally deserted area, and he immediately reported it to police.
    Kenna also texted back.
    Don’t know the stripper, but those are our shorts. Would love it if my classes were responsible for that booty. Can I ask club managers if they recognize? Won’t include any details or forward the photo.
    I answered yes and kept an eye on my messages while making Sophie oatmeal with almonds, dates, and raisins. I waited until she was fully dressed with her teeth brushed to explain that she might stay home from school. Sticking to a routine was the best way to prevent arguments, especially about outfits. I wasn’t picky, but wearing a princess nightgown to Florida wasn’t going to fly. Literally.
    “Why am I staying home?” she asked. “Is Jack sick?”
    Occasionally one child was so sick that I skipped taking the other to the bus stop, which was out of eyesight. I wouldn’t let either of them walk alone. Or together without me. I trusted them, but not the world, and Kenna couldn’t always help.
    “No, sweetie. He’s fine. I’m letting him sleep because we might have special plans today.”
    “But it’s my day to feed Bobby,” she whined. Oops. He was the class fish. “What are our special plans, anyway?”
    “It’s a surprise,” I said, knowing a new Disney movie would suffice if necessary. Skipping school to see actual (fake) princesses might make me the best, worst mom around.
    “I don’t like surprises,” she said.
    Me either . But I could almost guarantee they were coming our way.

      
    The only fun part of learning that we were going to Florida was telling the kids, who jumped up and down, hugged, and screamed so much I was afraid their oatmeal might make a return appearance. And that was before I told them they’d stay with Aunt Liz, go to Disney World, and play on the beach. That stunned them into wide-eyed silence, followed by more ear-piercing revelry. The closest they’d been to a beach in years was a sandbox, and thinking about the Gulf made me nervous. They were both good swimmers, but still…I wouldn’t be there to overprotect them. On the upside, they’d probably have more fun than