Page 18 of Sofa King Wanted

I stop walking to turn and face him. “She's been through enough.”

“I agree.” His words are empathetic, but does that mean that’s it?

“Then your investigation is all done?”

“Georgia, the thing is?—”

“Sheriff,” I correct him, and it's becoming a habit. Plus, what happened to babe? It was nice.

“Sheriff Babe Georgia.” Oh, snaps. Does the FBI teach people to read minds too? “The thing is?—”

Neil is cut off by someone shouting my name.

“Georgia!”

“Sheriff Georgia!” Neil shouts, beating me to it. Now that’s how to seduce someone.

I spot Danny heading toward us, and he appears not to be too happy. “You lied to me,” he accuses.

“Watch it.” Neil takes a step toward Danny, who stops mid-step.

“It’s okay.” I place my hand on Neil’s chest. “I got this.”

“All right,” he agrees, stepping back but shifting closer to my side.

“It’s not a lie, Danny. What I say are small fibs. There’s a difference.” Clearly I’m still lying, but I’m sure there’s some difference. Whatever, it doesn't matter.

“You said he was with the mob, but you’re dating him?”

“The mob?” Neil laughs.

“Danny, please don’t tell everyone he’s in the mob.” I shoot him a look. “That’s a secret.”

“You’re dating him? You agreed to go on a date with me.”

“Hold on, you what?” Neil appears pissed. A+ for his boyfriend skills. He’s really getting into character. I almost believe it.

“What about our date?” Danny snaps.

“Watch it.” Neil goes to step forward again, but I maneuver in front of him. I can’t have him flattening out Danny right in the center of town. That’s not very sheriff of me.

“Danny, I’m dating a mobster. I like bad boys.”

“But you’re the sheriff.” He glances up at Neil but snaps his eyes right back to me.

“I know.” I shake my head like I’m disappointed in myself.

“Then why did you have me help break into his room?”

“I didn’t break anything.” What’s with these accusations? “You know me. I was only checking on him. I mean, he’s a mobster, after all. I have to keep him in line.”

“You think he had a girl in there?” I’d hope not if he needed that lube.

“No, he knows I’d kill him,” I say, and Danny nods.

“I think it’s time you move it along, Danny boy,” Neil tells him. Danny ignores him. Or tries to.

“We should talk about this later,” Danny tries again.

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