Page 89 of Hidden Hero

Cora exhaled sharply, the pieces falling into place. “He manipulated people into giving up their medications, recruited Jed to move them, and somehow kept the whole operation hidden.” She shook her head, disbelief etched on her face. “How did Jed even get involved?”

Jeremy’s expression darkened. “Jed found out what his manager was doing and came to Buford, feeling the need to talk to someone about what was happening. Buford twisted that doubt into an opportunity, convincing Jed to do his dirty work for a small cut.”

Cora crossed her arms, the frustration bubbling in her chest. “So Buford managed to kill multiple elderly people, but he’ll only face charges for Roy.”

“You know how it works, Cora,” Jeremy said gently. “We gather all the evidence, but it’s up to the courts from there. At least Buford will stand trial for Roy’s murder and the drug trafficking. And thank God you decided to go ahead with Roy’s autopsy. Without that, his death might’ve gone unanswered.”

Cora’s gaze softened. “Then I’m glad. I’m glad there will be justice for Roy and closure for his family.”

Jeremy pulled her close, resting his chin on the top of her head. “You’re the real hero, Cora. The behind-the-scenes, hidden hero. If it wasn’t for you, he would have gotten away with it.”

She melted into his embrace, her cheek pressed against his chest. After a moment, she leaned back and tilted her head to meet his eyes.

His grin returned, a playful light in his eyes. “I want to try something this weekend.”

Curious, she arched a brow.

“How would you feel if I brought Tommy Girl to spend the weekend with us at your place?”

Her head tilted slightly. “You even have to ask? Of course!”

“Well,” he continued, “it’ll be the first time we combine Tommy Girl, Max, and Mia. I thought it’d be good to let them get used to each other.”

Warmth surged through her, and her arms tightened around his waist. “Really? And why is that?”

Still grinning, he said, “Because I don’t want to wait any longer, Cora. I’m yours, and you’re mine. And while we might not be moving in together just yet, I’d like to think we’re headed in that direction.”

Her heart swelled, and she nodded. “I love that.”

Jeremy exhaled as if steeling himself. “I promised myself I’d wait until the perfect moment to say this, but hearing you say ‘love’… I have to tell you—I’m in love with you, Cora. Maybe it’s too early, maybe it’s crazy, but?—”

“Stop,” she interrupted, her voice firm.

His smile faltered, replaced by a pained expression.

She rushed to clarify. “I want you to stop talking because I need to tell you that I’m falling in love with you, too. And yes, maybe it’s early. Maybe it’s crazy to think about moving in together. But I’m all in, Jeremy.”

His grin returned in full force, and with a joyful laugh, he lifted her off the ground and spun her around, her laughter ringing out in the air.

* * *

One Year Later

Cora stepped out of the back door and made her way over the dune to the beach. The breeze tousled her hair, and the swoosh of gentle waves filled the air. The diamond ring on her finger glistened in the sunlight. On this spot, six months ago, Jeremy had dropped to his knee and proposed. The wedding would be soon, and their families would come together to celebrate with friends.

She lifted her hand and held it above her eyes as a visor and spotted Jeremy paddling his kayak toward the shore. A smile spread across her face as she reached him just as he dragged the kayak onto the sand. His skin glistened with seawater, and his hair was mussed from the wind.

“Have fun?” she asked.

Jeremy looped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. “Gorgeous day,” he said, pressing a kiss to her temple. “But I have to tell you, coming home to you makes it perfect.” He glanced down at the steaming cup of coffee in her hands and laughed. “You and your cups.”

She lifted the mug, momentarily forgetting which one she’d chosen. The bold print brought a grin to her face.I’m not anti-social. I’m just postmortem friendly.

“Just so you know,” she said with a playful smirk, “I bought you a new one.”

Laughing, they strolled hand in hand back toward the house, the warm sand shifting under their feet. When they reached the deck, Cora picked up a mug resting on the railing and handed it to him.

Jeremy took one look at it and burst out laughing.I pet cats. I investigate crime scenes. I know things.

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