Chapter 22

Jackson ignored Sammy's glare and sat in front of the monitor at the dining room table.

On the feed, Ava sat on the couch, fingers linked tightly together. Tears tracked down her cheeks in tandem.

His gut coiled, wanting to take her in his arms and apologize. Not for what he'd said-because, hell, he'd meant it-but for the harsh way he'd gone about it. He wanted this, wanted her, for as long as she'd have him.

And wasn't this ironic? She'd pushed him away.

"Sarah?" Ava said.

He whipped his gaze across the screen, checking the equipment in the room with Ava. Nothing indicated a spirit.

The yes/no box lit green. Yes, it was Sarah.

His skin prickled and his hairs rose. This was it.

"Sarah Kerrick?" Ava clarified.

Green light.

He blew out a breath, silently coaching Ava.

She cleared her throat and swiped the tears from her cheeks. "I know it takes a lot of energy for you to stay. Forgive my rush. Do you understand I can lose the mansion?"

Green light.