Page 71 of Avery's Hero

Reeves is eyeing me when I climb back on my stool. Out of the corner of my eye, I see the grin he’s wearing.

“He likes you, you know?”

I give him a little eye-roll. “I’m not going to speculate about what Chief Mitchell likes.” There. That’s a nice factual statement.

Reeves chuckles. “You’re easy to blush.”

“Most people are when it comes right down to it.” I flip my eyes to his, “For example, if I ask you about flirting with the hostess at the restaurant.”

His grin deepens. “She’s all of nineteen.”

“But you did flirt. And you are blushing,” I say with my own grin.

“Of course, I did. So does every other guy that goes in there. It’s natural human biology. We’re built that way. As is blushing. It’s a natural flush response.”

I laugh. “So clinical.”

“You know me. I’ve got a paramedic’s brain thanks to my time in the service. So, how is your review of the arson case going?”

“I’m just getting a feel for all the facts.”

“I’m at your service if you need any help. But Brock will probably knock my teeth out.”

I force myself to say, “Why would you say that?”

He chuckles. “It’s a natural guy thing. We just know when we’re getting near another man’s territory.”

My heart’s lurching all over inside my chest.

Looking at my neck, he raises a brow. “Your pulse is pounding.”

I swallow and try to fold a towel but the damned thing seems as hard to manage as a fitted sheet, suddenly.

“Don’t worry. I haven’t said anything to anyone else.”

“What would there be to say?” I ask, looking at him squarely.

“Nothing.” He smiles and stands up. “Nothing at all. I’d never rat the chief out for doing something that makes him happy. He deserves a little good in his life.”

I realize I’m staring. But I don’t say anything.

“He’s had a tough go of it.”

Nervous, I glance away. “I know he has a lot going on with his son.”

“He’s a good man. If you need someone to vouch for him, I will. But be careful.” He drops his voice. “Frank’s loyalties are elsewhere. Just remember that.”

“Where?” I ask in a rough whisper.

“City hall. He’s sleeping with the assistant to the mayor.”

“Oh.” I give myself a little shake. “I see. Not that I’m doing anything wrong.”

“You might want to be careful about the soap and shampoo you use. You smell like the chief’s shower kit, not like that sweet smelling woman stuff you were using before.” He winks and walks away.

I drop my head onto the mound of folded towels and curse. That bad feeling I had in my gut earlier is back with a vengeance.

The rest of the day passes uneventfully. Thank god. I manage not to see Frank. Reeves keeps his distance. I bury my face in notes about the case.

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