Clara was grinning. She really liked Shamira's sister. "We will. But like she told you, her job is dangerous."

"But it sounds interesting, at least to her. And if it fulfills her somehow, then it's worth it. This is just so much to take into account."

Clara smiled inwardly now, wondering how Samantha would take it if she truly understood Clara's relationship with Shamira, or the life her sister had gotten into.

Clyde, Shamira, and Gayle all came outside. Gayle looked much relieved, Clyde looked content, and Shamira was practically glowing. "Mall opens in an hour," Shamira said. "We can get phones there."

"I'll have to tell Patrick something in...