Page 6 of Declan
“No, we’re fine. I’m sure her mama or daddy will be here soon.”
“My uncle Declan is picking me up.”
“Oh, that’s right. I forgot to tell you. Frankie’s mother called and said her brother was picking up Frankie,” Erica said.
“I’m glad you remembered because no matter who he was, she wasn’t going to leave with him. We have a strict policy for that.”
“It’s a good thing we do. You never know.”
“You’re so right, Erica. Go home. I’ll follow you to the door and lock it.” Elise looked at Frankie. “Come with me, sweetie. I need to lock the door after Erica leaves.”
“‘Kay,” Frankie said as she took Elise’s hand, and they walked to the front lobby.
“Be safe going home, Erica. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“You too. Any plans for the weekend?”
“After the dancercise class, I’m not going to do a thing,” Elise said with a grin.
“Same here. Bye.” Erica walked out and Elise locked the door. Just as she turned to lead Frankie to her office, she stopped when Frankie started jumping up and down and pointing to a man stepping from an SUV cruiser with Sheriff’s Department down the side of it and walking toward the door.
“That’s Uncle Declan. He’s a depty.”
“You mean a deputy?” She smiled when Frankie nodded.
Elise’s eyes widened as she watched the man stride toward her. He literally took her breath away. A white cowboy hat sat atop his head, casting a shadow over his face, while his dark brown hair brushed against the collar of his khaki shirt. A gleaming badge was pinned to his chest, catching the light with every movement. His jeans fit snugly, accentuating his tall, lean frame, and on his feet were a pair of well-worn cowboy boots. Damn! She couldn’t tear her gaze away as he flashed a grin andlifted a hand to wave at Frankie.
“Let me open the door for him.” Elise unlocked the door and ushered him inside. Good Lord, he smelled fantastic. She watched him squat down to talk to his niece.
“Hey, kiddo. I’m sorry I’m a little late.”
Elise smiled when Frankie hugged her uncle, not that she could blame her. She’d like a hug herself. She looked at his hand and didn’t see a wedding band.
“That doesn’t mean anything,” she murmured then blushed when he looked at her.
“I’m sorry?”
“Nothing. Just talking to myself. So, you’re Frankie’s uncle?”
He stood up. “Yes, ma’am. Declan Cavanaugh,” he said as he put his hand out for her to shake.
The minute their hands touched; she didn’t want to let go. Their eyes met and she couldn’t look away.
“Elizabeth Ramsey, but everyone calls me Elise. It’s nice to meet you, Deputy Cavanaugh.”
“Declan, please, and it’s nice to meet you too. Elise is a nickname for Elizabeth?” he asked as their eyes held.
“Yes. When I was born, my uncle started calling me Elise and it stuck.” She was sure she was going to burst into flames.
“I see.” Then he looked at his niece. “Are you ready to go?”
“Is Tank with you?”
“Yep.” Declan grinned.
“Yay! I have to get my backpack first.”
“Alright. I’ll be right here.”
