A Maverick's Christmas Homecoming. Teresa Southwick

managed to say, “Th-thanks for the news flash.”

      “You need to get into something dry.”

      “I need to go h-home.”

      “My place is closer.” The next words just popped out, but as soon as they did he knew how much he wanted it. “You could stay tonight.”

      “Oh, Shane—”

      “Just a thought. No harm, no foul.”

      “I’d really like to.” There was need in her eyes, but it was quickly followed by doubt. “But …”

      There always was, he thought.

      “I have an early day tomorrow,” she said. “It’s probably best if I go home. Rain check?”

      “You got it.” He’d never meant a promise more. “Now let’s get you back to your car.”

      He hurried her to the parking lot and took her keys when her hand was shaking too badly to fit it in the lock. When she was in the driver’s seat, she managed to get the key in the ignition and turn it. There was a clicking noise but the engine didn’t turn over.

      Shane met her gaze. “Did you forget to say your prayer this morning?”

      “That’s not the problem. This clunker is officially beyond the power of prayer. It’s dead.”