TableofContents

Acknowledgements

WHENTHEVOWBREAKS

MICHELLELIBBY

SOULMATEPUBLISHING

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WHENTHEVOWBREAKS

MICHELLELIBBY

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Acknowledgements

Policeofficersareundertheconstantthreatofbeingsued.Whenithappens,it’straumatic
for the whole family. Innocent or guilty, reputations are damaged and the repercussions
canbelasting.

Thankyoutothepoliceofficerswhoareouttheredayinanddayout,keepingussafe,and
tothelawyerswhobelieveinthecopsandhelpthemwhentheyhavetogotocourt.

Chapter1

ReganRourkestoodinthearchwaybetweenherlivingroomandkitchen,wearingred

spikeheels,asmile,andnothingelse.Sheheardthedoorofherhusband’struckslamshut
andhisfootstepsonthefrontporch.Shesmoothedherfreshlycurledhairdownoverher
shoulderandreadjustedherstance,tryingtosteadyherselfontheheels.

Seducingherhusbandwasnewtoher.He’dalwayspursuedher,eveninthebeginning

oftheirrelationship.He’dbeentheonetoinitiatedating,thensex.Buttonight,afteratrip
to the mall and a splurge on heels she’d probably never wear again, she was going to
celebratetheirrelationship,theoneshe’dbeensoagainstinthebeginning.Acop’swife
had to deal with such crap from the department, but being married to Colin was much
easier than she’d expected. Now she was going to let loose with him and be the wild
womanheneverknewshewas.Inallhonesty,thewildwomanshedidn’tknowshewas.

Herheartbegantopoundasshethoughtaboutherhusband’sreaction.Desirepooled

betweenherthighs.Sheleanedherelbowupagainstthewallandstruckasexypose,her
hipcockedoutandtheheelswobblingjustasthefrontdooropened.

“Regan,I’mhome.”Colindroppedhisgearandadufflebagonthefloorjustinside

thedoor.“Regan,honey.Whereareyou?Wehavetotalk.”

Helookedup.Hiseyesmethersandhedidadoubletake.Strippingoffhisjacket,he

droppeditontopofhisgearandcrossedtheroomintheamountoftimeittookherheart
tothumpinherchest.

Regan’ssmilegrewlargeratthewolfishlookonherhusband’sface.Herconfidence

soared,andshegrinnedbackathim.Thrustingherhipsforward,shebeckoned,ignoring
thedefeatedlookhe’dwornandtheserioustoneofvoiceheusedwhenhe’dfirstwalked
throughthedoor.Therewerewordsnoonewantedtohear,newlywedornot.Worktalk
couldwait.

“What’s this?” He closed the final feet between them, pulling her into his arms. His

hands grasped her ass, and he trailed kisses down her neck. “Were you expecting
someone?”

“HappyAnniversary,”shesaid,findinghislipsandplunderingthemwithhermouth.

Shesuckedinhislowerlipandnipped,andwasrewardedwhenhistonguecaughthers.
Shecontinuedtokisshim,herbodygrowingheavywithneed.

“DidImissananniversaryalready?”Helaughed,awarmchucklethatturnedRegan’s

insidestomush.

Shelovedthismanwithsuchafiercepassionthatshecouldn’timaginelivingwithout

him.Fromhisdirty-blondhairtothemusclesthatrippledacrosshischestandback,she
adored every part of his sexy-as-sin body, and getting him naked was first on her to-do
list.

“We’ve been married six months today. I thought we should celebrate,” she purred

huskily.

“I’mupforthat.”Hescoopedherupandheadedforthestairs.

She wrapped her legs around his waist and hooked the heels of her shoes together.

While he carried her, she ran her tongue over the seam of his lips, wetting them. He
openedhismouth,takingherinandsuckingonhertongue.Hemoanedintohermouthas
he carried her up the stairs to their bedroom on the second floor of the suburban Cape-
Cod-Stylehousethey’dboughtfivemonthsago.

Hereadjustedherinhisarmsandreachedforthelightswitch.

“No,”shesaidseductively.“Leaveitoff.”

“Iwanttoseeyou.”

“Look around,” she answered, happy that he was focused on her, but wishing he’d

noticedherefforts,too.

Hedidashewastold,andshesmiledasheappreciativelyscannedthecandlesshe’d

strategicallyplacedaroundtheroom.

“Ilikethemusic,”hetoldher,plantingakissonhershoulder.Hiseyescontinuedto

scantheroom.Henoddedtowardthenightstandwhereshe’darrangedaplatterofcheese
andcrackers,grapes,andstrawberries,hisfavorite.Amanneededhissustenance.

“You thought of everything.” He nipped at her shoulder and slid her down his body

untilhernakedasshitthebed.

“I was only missing a strong, handsome, sexy, powerful man to complete my

scenario.”

“Yourscenario,huh?”

“Yep.” When she used words from work, a rush of excitement filled her. Working

together had its perks and she made sure they made a sometimes boring and dangerous
job,fun.Heseemedtolikeittoo.SheunbuttonedhisshirtandtuggedhisT-shirtfreefrom
his waistband. The exposed skin taunted her and she ran her hands under his shirt,
kneading and stroking every part of his muscled chest. She felt his nipples tighten and
rolledthembetweenherfingerandthumb.“Youlikethat,Officer?”

Helaughedandpushedherontoherbackbeforesheddingtherestofhisclothesina

matter of seconds. “Now we’re even,” he said, climbing over her. “Except you have on
shoes.”

“Doyouwantmetotakethemoff?”Sheraisedherfoottogivehimagoodviewof

hercandy-red,strappyheel.

“Hellno,”hesaid,sittingtothesideofherandcradlingherfootandfondlingtheheel

inhispalm.“Thesearedamnsexy.Idon’tevenwanttoknowwhereyougotthemonour
salaries.”

Sheranahandoverhisbackandsatuptokisswhereshetouched.Shefollowedwith

hertongue,tastingthesaltinessofhishot,silkyskin,thenskimmedherhandsdownover
thefrontofhim,lovingthefeel.Hedroppedherfootandrolledtowardher,capturingher
mouthwithhis.

Intheflickeringlight,shecouldseethedefinitionofhismusclesandthegoldencolor

of his nakedness. She wanted him inside her now. Tonight she didn’t want foreplay.
Standing naked in her living room waiting for him, imagining all the ways she would
makelovetohimhadmadeherwetandneedy.

Notsensingherurgency,hedrewpicturesacrossherstomach,lazylinesthattickled

and enticed her. She knew the rules, though. If she touched him and tried to speed him
along, he’d use the special handcuffs she’d bought at a naughty toy party to make sure
she’d have to wait until he was ready. There were times she did grab his hard cock and
stroke because she liked the loss of control the handcuffs meant, but other times she
playedbyhisinstructions.

Hedrewcirclesthroughthehairattheapexofherthighs,andshestartedtosquirm,

tryingtomoveherhipsclosertowherehisfingerworkeditswaynearthemostsensitive
partofher.

“Impatient, aren’t we?” He chuckled, sliding his whole hand over her mound,

coveringher,thenwaiting.

Shethrustupward.

With a quick escape move he’d taught her, she rolled away and then climbed over

him,straddlinghisgroin,hiscockpressingintoher.

“See,Iwaspayingattention,”shesaid,grabbinghiswristsandpinningthemoverhis

head.Shegroundherhipsintohimandkissedherwaydownhischeektohisneck,then
slid her hands down his arms so she could take one of his nipples in her mouth. She
nippedatit,andhemoaned.“That’sright.Waiting’shard,isn’tit?”Shifting,sheadjusted
herselfsothatheslidallthewayinsideher,fillingherwithheatandneed.Theygroaned
inunison.

Leaning over him, she started to rock forward and back, caught up in the delicious

frictionofhishardnessinsideher,sendingherspiralingoutofcontrol.Hecapturedoneof
her nipples in his mouth and sucked hard. She rocked faster. He clutched her hips and
encouragedhertopickupthetempo.

Shekeptincontrol,butonlyhungonbyathread,untilhestartedthrustingupwithhis

hips.Surrendering,shecameinstantly,shudderingandslowinghermotion,squeezinghim
with her inner muscles and drawing out the waves of pleasure that crashed over her. He
pushedintoheronelasttimeandgroanedhisownrelease.

Stillmelded,herolledthemuntilhewasontopofher.Hepulledoutpartway,then

slidbackintoher.Shegrinnedupathim.“I’mstillshakingfromthelastone.”

“I’mnotdonewithyouyet,”hesaid,drivingintoheragain.

Shehookedherheelsoverhishipsandmovedwithhimashedroveherwildwithhis

tempochanges.Shefelthimlengthenandgrowashemadelovetoher.Hetookhernipple
intohismouthandwithoneswirlofhistongue,lightexplodedbehindhereyesandshe
came again, harder, more powerfully. Gasping and clutching his biceps, she hollered his
nameashefollowedherovertheedge.

Herolledontohisback,breathinghard.Hishandlingeredoverherquiveringsexas

he ran his fingers through the curls. It seemed mindless on his part. The warm feeling
pooling in her core relaxed her. She reached out and settled the sheet over their lower
halves.

“I’m developing a new scenario.” She grinned a sly smile, one that came from

satisfyingsex.Shethrustherhipsupanddown.

Hedidn’trespond,butlaythere,hiseyesclosed.

Afterafewminutesofsilence,onceherbreathinghadregulated,hespokesoftly.

“Ireallydoneedtotalktoyou,”hesaid.

“I hate it when you say that. It usually means that the police department wants

something else from you. Another holiday shift or weekend day patrolling the streets of
PortCity.”

Hesatup,hisfeethittingthefloorandthesheetpulledtightacrosshiships.Heheld

hisheadinhishandsforamomentthenforkedhisfingersthroughhishair.

Ohno.Regansatupnexttohim,clutchingtherestofthesheettohernakedbreasts.

This wasn’t the typical PD-wants-something-from-me talk. A sick feeling rolled in her
stomach.

Shehadn’tbeenapoliceofficer’swifeforlong,butbeingadispatchermadeherwell

aware of how officers acted when something big was going down. Funny incidents, he
recounted briefly and dismissively, but when he said “We have to talk,” it was never
anything positive. Many times she knew events that had taken place before he did, but
thereweretimeswhensheknewhersupervisorsweretryingtokeepthingsfromher,like
whenColinwasonapotentiallydangerouscall.Heusuallytoldheraboutthecallshe’d
missedafterthefact.Todayhadbeenherdayoff,soshe’dbeenoutoftheloop.Whathad
shemissed?

She put a hand on his back, ignoring the electricity that zinged down her arm

whenever she touched him. She loved the fact that he was all hers. No one and nothing
couldchangethat.Theywereinthismarriageforbetterorworse.

“I’mbeingservedwithacivillawsuitforfivemilliondollars.Ididn’tdoanythingto

thescumbag,Ramirez,buthislawyersthinkthere’senoughevidencetowinajudgment
against me for wrongful death. I only found out this morning about the suit. His family
wantsmoneyfortheirpainandsuffering.”

Herstomachpitched,thenrolled,andherheartstartedtoache.Sheforcedherselfto

breathe. She let out another breath, this one longer. When she agreed to marry a police

officer, she knew that something could happen. He could get shot or have to shoot
someone,whichcouldcausestress,butsheneverthoughtsomethingcouldthreatentheir
financial security and their home. Police work was a recession-proof job. There would
alwaysbeaneedforsafetyofficers.Shehadn’tevenconsideredthepossibilityhecould
getsued.

Herheadswamwiththememoriesofpackingupherchildhoodhome,movingintoa

smallbedroomshehadtosharewiththreeothergirls,thenleavingthereandmovinginto
apitofahousewhereshesleptinthewet,dankbasement.

“Regan?Didyouhearme?”SheheardColinturntolookather.

Shenoddedasshesuckedinanotherdeepbreathandshakilyletitout.“Didyousay

five million dollars?” she whispered. “That’s more money than I’ve ever seen. Where
wouldweevenfindthatkindofmoney?”

Henodded.“IfIlostthecase,andI’mnotsayingIwould,butIdon’tknowiftheif

the city would help with some of it or if they’d take our house, cars … savings.
Everything.Yours,mine,andours.”

“IthinkI’mgoingtobesick.”Regansuckedinmoredeepbreathsthengaveupand

boltedoutofbedandranintothebathroom.Shegaspedoverthesink.Thecoolwatershe
splashedonherfacefeltgood.Herskinwasoverheated,andsheneededadrinktosteady
herriotousnerves.

“Sweetheart?”

“Ineedaminute.”

He stepped into the bathroom anyway and put his hands around her shaking, naked

body.Hesqueezedhertohim,hisfrontagainstherback.

She stared at their reflection in the mirror. “I love you,” she said, and she meant it.

Colin was her rock, her lover, and her best friend. He’d always been there for her—
faithfultothebitterend.Nomatterwhattheywentthrough,theydidittogetherasateam.
Sinceshe’dcommittedwhollytohim,she’dneverhadamoment’shesitationaboutgoing
to bat for him. “I can’t lose everything again. You included. Is there any chance they’ll
convictyou?Willyouhavetogotojail?”

“No.Iwon’thavetogotojail,it’saciviltrial,butthemoneywouldhavetobepaidif

theyfoundmeliableforhisdeath.Maybebankruptcywouldbeanoption?Don’tworry
yet.Iloveyou.We’llgetthroughthistogether.”

“Colin, we can’t lose everything.” This horrible situation was going to rip apart her

well-orderedlife,theoneshe’dcreatedsinceshe’dturnedeighteen.

“Thinkpositively.We’llbefine.”

“No, Colin. I can’t take that chance. I came into this marriage with expectations,

things we talked about having. We bought this house for us, for our future family.” She
could feel the panic rising again. Her eyes took on a wild look in the bathroom mirror.
DisentanglingherselffromColin,shewentbackintothebedroomandslippedadressover

herhead.Herbrainwasworkingovertime.

BeingadispatcheratthePortCityPoliceDepartmentmadeheragreatmulti-tasker.

Factsanddetailswereherlife.Atthemoment,thethoughtsinherbrainwereabstractand
ridiculous.Shewasn’tsurewhattheywoulddo,butshewasnotgoingtoleteverything
they’dputtogetherfallapartlikeatrailerparkinatornado.

Hesilentlywalkedbackintotheroomandsteppedintohisjeans,tighteningthebelt

aroundhiswaistandtuckingthepaddleholsteroverhiswaistband.

Whensheglancedoverathim,shewantedtocry,scream,hitsomething,orallthree

atonce.“Iknowwhatwehavetodo.”

“OtherthanforgetIsaidanythingandgetbackintobed?”Hishumorfellflatandthe

cornersofhismouthdropped.

“You need to own nothing. Everything should be put in my name. If you have no

assets,theycan’ttakeanythingfromyou.”

“That won’t work. We live in a common-law state. Everything that’s yours is mine

andmineisallyours.”

She dropped her chin to her chest in defeat. It wasn’t that she didn’t believe in her

husband’s innocence, but five million dollars was a lot of money, more than they’d
probablymakeintheirwholelifetogether.Wouldtheyhavetopayforthisuntiltheywere
old and gray so that this scumbag’s family could live comfortably? It wasn’t going to
happen.

“Ifyoucan’townanything,andrightnowweshareallassets,thentheonlyoptionis

togetadivorce.”

Colinburstbackintothebedroomandgrabbedhershoulders.“What?Areyoucrazy?

It took me three years to get you to walk down the aisle with me in the first place. You
think I’m letting you go after only six months? Dream on, sweetie. We will get through
thistogether.”Hekissedhermouth,bruisinghertenderlips,draggingaresponsefromthe
depths of her soul. She wanted to respond to him, wanted to forget everything, but she
couldn’t.Shepulledawayfromhim,andhereleasedherarms.

Sheglancedatthegunathiswaist.Thefactthathewasarmedmostofthetimestill

unnervedher,butinastrangewayitmadeherfeelsafe.Sheskirtedthebeduntilshestood
in front of him. “It’s not what I want,” she started. “This would be a divorce of
convenience. We get divorced, but not really. Only long enough to get through the trial.
That way, if you lose, you own nothing. It’s brilliant, really. We put everything in my
name,andyoubecomeaswingingbachelorwithonlyyourmotorcycletoyourname.”

“Idon’thaveamotorcycle.”

Reganshookherhead.“Igiveyouthisawesomeplanandtheonlythingyouhaveto

sayis‘Idon’thaveamotorcycle’?”

Hestrokedtheskinonherarmswherehe’dgrabbedhersecondsago,butthenpulled

heragainsthischest.Heplacedakissonthetopofherhead.“Idon’twanttoletyougo

evenforoneday,notevenforonehour.Ican’tgothroughthiswholetrialwithoutyour
support.”

“It’s the only way.” She let her lips slide across his. “I’m sure we’ll have to get

togethertodiscussthechildrenorthedogatsomepoint.”Shesmiledathimandwinked.

“Wedon’thaveanykidsoradog.”

Sheslappedherownforehead.“Nokidding.Thatdoesn’tmeanthatwewon’thaveto

gettogether—”Shewaggledhereyebrowssuggestively.

“Iknowwhatyoumean,Regan.We’llgettogetherwhentheneedarises.”Hedidn’t

smile.

“ThisprovesyetagainthatI’mthebrainsinthisoperation.”Shewaitedforareaction,

forhimtounderstandwhereshewascomingfromandtogetherjoke.

Colinpushedherbackwarduntilherlegshitthebed.“Ithinkthisideasucks.It’sthe

worstideayou’veeverhad,butlet’scelebrateourimpendingdivorce.”

He pushed the hem of her dress up over her thighs and lowered himself to her. “I

mightagreetothiscrazydivorce,butI’mnotgoingtoletyouforgetme.Andwhenthisis
allover…”

He moved until his hot breath hovered over her sensitive skin. In the back of her

mind,sheclungtotheknowledgethatwhenhewascleared,theywouldbetogetheragain.

Chapter2

WhenReganwokeupearlythenextmorning,thebirdswerechirpingandthesunwas

startingtorise.Thescenewaslikeshewasinafreakin’Disneymovieexceptshedidn’t
feel like a princess. More like the ugly step-sister. She ran a hand over Colin’s muscled
backwhileheslept.He’dkeptthembothuplate,notthatsheminded,butwhenshehadto
getupatfour—forty-fivetogetreadyforwork,latenightssucked.Shekissedhiswarm
backandrolledoutofbed.

Herplanwastofigureoutthebestwaytogetaquickiedivorcebeforeanyoneatthe

station or any of their friends had time to ask why or try to change her mind. She was
goodatresearch.Howhardcoulditbetogetanuncontesteddivorce,anyway?Withthe
Internet,instantgratificationwasatherfingertips,andshewaspositivethatshecouldget
whatevershewanted.

LeavingColinwasneverinherplans,andifshecouldthinkofanotherwaytokeep

him,shewould.She’dlosttoomanypeopleinherlife.

Shewasatworkbysixandpluggedintoherstation,readyforthenine-one-onecalls.

The dark room was relaxing to the casual observer, but five large television screens
scrolledcallnumbersnexttotheofficerwhoresponded.Shehadtobecarefulnottosend
the same officer to two different calls. Each person had their own workstation, a small
cubbywithitsowncomputer.

Today someone had vanilla-flavored coffee and Regan could smell it as it swirled

aroundtheroom.Whileshewaitedforherphonetoring,shelistenedtootherstakingcalls
whileshecheckedemail.Sheentered‘quickiedivorce’intohersearchengine.Theresults
instantlypoppeduponthescreen.Sheclickedthroughtothefirstresult,whichclaimed
thatsheonlyneededonehourtocompletetheforms.Afteranappearancebeforealocal
judge,anuncontesteddivorcewouldbecomplete.Withanadditionalhundreddollars,the
companywouldmakesurethatthecourtdateoccurredwithintwoweeks.

Two weeks would be enough time to get the divorce complete before Colin’s initial

courtappearance.Thatwouldwork.

“Troubleinparadise?”ashrillvoicesaidfromoverhershoulder.

Withaswishofthemouse,Reganmadethescreenblank.

“No, Sheila. It’s nothing for you to worry about.” Regan hated that woman. Sheila

Jones, the senior dispatcher on the day shift, could never get promoted to supervisor
becausepeoplecouldn’tstandher.Herbiggestflawwasthatshewasagossip.Therewas
nothingthathappenedwithinthestationwallsorwithoneoftheofficersthatshedidn’t
knowaboutanddiscusswitheveryone.ReganhadnodoubtSheilaknewaboutColinand
thecivilcase.

“Divorce sites?” Sheila asked, raising a slender brow. “But you just got married. I

wouldn’tletthatstudoutofmysight.”

“Well, Sheila, you’re not me.” Regan swiveled around in her chair and stood. “I’m

takingafivetousethebathroom.”WithaquicksmiletoSheila,Reganlefttheroom.

Shefeltlikecrying,butdidn’t.Shewastoostrongforthat.DivorcingColinwasgoing

tobetough.HewassowelllikedbyeveryonethatshewouldlooklikethedesignatedA-
holepitchinghimtothecurb.

Especially after he’d chased her for three years. She hadn’t wanted to get caught by

anyman,especiallyonewhowasapoliceofficer.Theycamewithtoomuchbaggageand
she already had a trailer full of her own. She’d been content to date, socialize with the
dispatchteamfromwork,andflirtshamelesslywiththemenatthedepartment.

Colin hadn’t taken her hints about not getting serious. He wanted her and made no

qualmsaboutittootherofficers.Butshe’dwatchedotherco-workerswho’dtrieddatinga
police officer. Most officers were committed to their jobs and needed a woman who
understoodthat.Reganwasn’tworriedabouthandlingthestress,butshewantedtobefirst
inherman’slife.Colinmadeherapriority,sofinallywhenheaskedhertomarryhim,she
said“yes”becauseshelovedhim,andintheendthatwasallthatmattered.

Now she was stuck with a bunch of complications she hadn’t thought of when she

devised this brilliant plan. Locked in the bathroom by herself, she pulled her cell phone
outofherpocketanddialedtheonepersonshecouldconfidein.

“Brian?”

“Regan.What’swrong?Yousoundfunny.”

Heranxietystartedtoevaporate.“I’msogladtohearyourvoice.I’minthebathroom

atwork.ColinandIaregettingadivorce.”Shehadn’tmeanttoblurtoutthereasonforher
call,butwhenitcametoBrian,shetoldhimeverything.Growingup,sheneverknewhow
muchtimeshe’dhavetotalktohim,soshegotusedtoblurtingoutthetruthwhenevershe
had something to tell him. “I hate this foster family. I need three hundred bucks. I’m
gettingmarried.”She’dtoldhimallofthiswithoutfanfareorbuildup.She’dwantedto
tellhimaboutthedivorceinpersontogagehisreaction,buttherewasnotime.

“What? You said you loved him.” There was an echo in the background on Brian’s

sideoftheline.

“Stopsmiling.”TherewasnoneedforhertoseeBriantoknowthenewsmadehim

happy.He’dnevermadehisdislikeforColinasecret.Whathadgoneonbetweenthemto
causetherifthadalwaysbeenamystery.Neithermanhadrevealedanythingtoher,but
sheassumedithadalottodowiththelawyer-coprelationship.

“Ineverthoughthewasgoodenoughforyou,youknowthat.I’mjustsurprised.”

“There’s more to it. Can we get together tonight to talk? Colin has to work the late

shift.”

There was a pause and a muffled response. “I only have a minute before court goes

backinsession,butIshouldbeabletoseeyoutonight.I’llpickyouupatsixandwe’llgo

toourspecialspot.Gottogo.”Hehungup.

Shefeltrelievedtohavetoldsomeoneabouttheimpendingdivorce.Itmadeitmore

real,morefrightening.ShewassplittingupwithColin,shetoldherselfagain.Herheart
crackedalittlebitmore.

Someonepoundedonthebathroomdoor.“I’mcoming,”Regansaid.Shewashedher

faceandhands,andwipedwateracrossthebackofhernecktocoolherheatedskin.

Once back at her desk, she noticed that Sheila was tied up with a project, everyone

elseseemedtobeverybusywithwork,andnoonemadeeyecontactwithher.Damn.

Regan’sbathroombreakhadbeenallthetimeSheilaneededtotelleveryoneaboutthe

divorce.Herconsolelitupwithacall.Shesatdownandslippedonherheadset.“Nine-
one-one,whatisyouremergency?”

~~~

ThebulletshitdeadcenteronColinRourke’starget.Hewasstillagreatshot,despite

thepaininhisshoulder.Eventhoughithadbeenalmostsixmonthssincehe’dbeenpulled
downaflightofstairsbyadrugsuspect,therecoilstillhurttheinjury.

“Nice group,” Jack Geib, a classmate and friend from the Police Academy, said,

securinghisrifle.

“Thanks,butlookatyours.”Colinhitthebuttonthatwouldbringthetargettothem.

“Threeshotsintheheadtouchingoneanother.Remindmenottogetonyourbadside.”

“Imightbegood,butstill,whentheSpecialReactionTeamgetscalledin,I’mstuck

onsomerooftopwhileyouguyshaveallthefunbustingindoorsandkickingass.”

Colincheckedhiswatch.“I’veonlygotafewminutesbeforeclassstarts.Youknow

howthelieutenantgetswhenwe’relate.I’msurprisedshedoesn’tmakeusdoonepush-
upforeveryminute.”

The conversation reminded Colin of another night when he and Jack had been

shootingattheindoorrange.

“I’ve got to get back out on the street. Nights like this bite. It’s so freakin’ cold my

ballsarehidingupinmystomach.Ican’twaittogethometowarmupwithmyhot,new
wife.”

“IfIhadawifeassmokin’asyours,I’dtransferoffthisswingshiftcrapandbeinher

bedeverynight.”Jackhadswunghisrifleoverhisshoulder.

ColinclappedJackonthebackandthenleft.Thatnight,Colinhadgonebackouton

the street to pick up a man on Commercial Street. Going to that call was the biggest
freakin’mistakeofhislife.

~~~

Before each shift, the officers gathered to hear announcements, warnings, and

whatever else the lieutenant wanted to tell them. Today, Colin arrived in class with

momentstospare.Thelieutenantglaredathimbeforeturningontheoverheadprojectorto
startherbriefingontherun-downofthenight’sactivities.Ithadbeenahellofadayand
beinglatewouldhaveaddedtoitsnightmarequality.

He was still thinking the whole divorce thing had been a dream. There was no way

Reganwasgoingtogetridofhimbecauseofastupidcourtcase.Hedidn’tdoanything
wrong.Togetherthey’dbeatthisbadrap.

Once the shift was over, Colin snuck into the locker room, hoping to avoid

conversation.Hismoodwentfromsourtoall-outrotten.He’darrestedthreeteenagersfor
drinkingunderageandpunchedoneguyforgrabbinghisarm.

“Roughnight?”JackslappedColinonthebackbeforeopeningthelockernexttohis.

“Why?”Colinconsideredsneakingapeekinthemirrortoseeifhelookedhungover.

Heshruggedoutofhisuniformshirtandun-velcroedthestrapsonhisbulletproofvest.

“Iheardthatthelittlewomanisbailingonyou.ThebigD.”Jacklookedaroundhis

lockerdoorandmadeeyecontactwithhim.

Shit.

Trying not to show how surprised he was that someone was spreading his personal

information around, Colin blinked then slammed his locker. “Whatever. I don’t know
whereyouheardthat,butdoyouthinkI’dletababelikeRegangetaway?”

Jack shut his locker, the metal-on-metal clank echoing in the cement block locker

room.“JustsayingwhatIheard.KnowI’mhereforyou,man.”

A half hour later, Colin only heard half of what people said to him as he left the

building and went to his car. His thoughts were three floors up in the darkened dispatch
room, even though Regan wasn’t there now. Had Regan been telling everyone that they
weregoingtogetdivorced?Theyhadn’tdiscussedadivorcemorethanRegantellinghim
howamazingherideawas.Heunlockedthedoorandclimbedintothedarkinterior.Asfar
ashewasconcerned,theycouldtakehishouse,car,andanythingelseheownedaslongas
hegottokeepRegan.Unlessshereallywantedtoleavehim?Wasthisherwayoutoftheir
marriage?Ithadbeenhardforhimtoconvincehertomarryhiminthefirstplace.

No. He was being paranoid. The pending case was getting to him. He was seeing

doomandgloominplaceshedidn’tneedtolook,especiallyafterherwillingnessinbed
lastnight.Hegrinnedtohimself.She’dbeenatiger.Afterhe’dgonedownonher,she’d
beenalloverhim,sucking,biting,andfinallyslidingdownoverhishardshaft.Hispants
grewuncomfortable,andheshiftedinhisseat.Heneededtoseeher.

Workingtogetherhadneverbeenaproblembefore.Theyreportedtodifferentchains

ofcommand,andshewasabletotakeafewminuteshereandtheresotheycouldsneakin
quickiesnowandthen.Notbeingabletotalktohereverynightandtryingtostayaway
was hell. Between his work and her job, two more days passed and Colin hadn’t had a
chancetotalktoReganagainaboutherhastydecision.Hisminddriftedduringclasson
thesecondday.Hewouldfindherinthebuildingassoonasshearrived.He’dcornerher
andtalkheroutofdivorcinghim.

“Rourke?Youwithme?”

Hesnappedhisheadupandfocusedonthelieutenant.“Ma’am?”

“YouneedtoreporttoInternalAffairsthismorningbeforeyouhitthestreets,thenthe

captainwantstotalktoyou.”

Colin nodded. He hated all of the political bull with administration. He was a cop’s

cop.He’dratherbeonthestreetsdoinghisjob,neverinteractingwiththebrass.

The higher ups liked him well enough, but he’d never been a fan of politicians and

peoplewhoweresunshineandbutterflieswhiletalkingtothemediaandthentalkedtrash
behindcloseddoorswiththepeopleclosesttothem.

Jacknoddedtohimashetookthestairstwoatatimetothefifthfloor.Theloftyair.

Thesecretarysmiledathim.“Goodmorning,Colin.Thesergeantisreadyforyou.”

He’dneverbeentotheInternalAffairsoffice.Heknewthesergeantinchargeofthe

unit,buttheyweren’tfriends.Colinscoffed.Wasanyonefriendswithanofficerwhosejob
itwastoratouthisbuddies?

Heknockedonthedoor.

“Enter.”

Colinpushedopenthedoortorevealthecloset-sizedoffice,bigenoughforadesk,a

singlechair,andafilingcabinet.

“How’sitgoing,Sarge?DoIneedaunionrephere?”Colinasked,sittingintheempty

chair.

“Youprobablyshould,butIonlywantedtorunafewthingsbyyou.Sorrytoputyou

thoughthis,butit’smyjob.”

Thesergeant,abig,burlymanwithashavedheadandenoughroomonhisdutybelt

forallofhistoolsandafewextraspacestocarrystufffortheskinnyofficers,crossedhis
arms.

“IntheRamirezcase,sincetheyhaven’tretrievedabody,theyonlywanttogoafter

youtopayfortheiremotionalpainandsuffering.Colin,Ireadthecallforservice.Itsaid
youdroppedRamirezoffonthebridgebetweenPortCityandSouthport.”

Colin resisted the urge to stand, confronting the sergeant on his level. His brain

jumpedbacktothecall-inquestion.

ThatJanuarynighthadbeenbittercold,butithadn’tsnowed.Itwasdark,clear,and

crisp,oneofthosenightsColinhatedtoleavehiscar.Whentheradiocrackled,heprayed
itwasn’tacallinhissectorbutithadbeen.

“Four-seventeen.Wehaveapick-uprequestatCommercialandMapleStreets.”

“Copy,”Colinsaidintohismic.He’dleftthewarmgunrangeinthestation,climbed

into the cruiser, put it in gear, and headed toward his call. It was most likely some
homelessguywhohadn’tgottentotheshelterbeforeitwasfull.

It was calls like this that made Colin give thanks for all he and Regan had—a nice

home, jobs, and a nest egg—so eventually they could start a family. Regan was always
concerned about something happening to him and losing the house. She liked to have a
stash of cash in the bank as a safety net. He didn’t argue about it because she almost
alwaysdeferreddecisionstohim.

He drove slowly, scanning the streets for a cold guy with a grocery cart. When he

reached the intersection, a man stepped out of a doorway and signaled by raising his
glovelesshand.

Colinhadloweredthewindow.“Dude,youneedaride?”

“Thanks,man.Ineedtogettomyfriend’shouseinSouthport,butdammit,heain’t

answering his phone. I don’t got no money for a cab,” he said, as he pulled on the
passengersidedoorhandle.

“Can’t sit there. Back seat.” Colin gestured to the molded hard seats behind the

Plexiglas.Nomoneyforacab?Sonowhewasataxidriver?

Heshouldhaveseenthetroublecoming.He’dgottenoutinthefreezingcoldtopat

the guy down. He never let anyone in his car before patting them down for weapons. It
might have been cold, but Colin wasn’t stupid. He’d met officers who were less than
cautiousanditbitthemintherearbigtime.

ThemanmadeadisgustedfaceasColinranhishandsdownhisjacketandhispant

legsoneatatime,beforeColingavetheallclearforthemantoclimbintheback.

Colinhadreturnedtohiswarmseatandcrankedtheheatertofullblast.“What’syour

name?”Colinasked,preparingtorunhispassengerthroughthesystemtoseeifhecould
spendthenightinthewarm,welcomingcountyjail.

“RodrigoRamirez.”

Colin’sgazesnappedtotherearviewmirrorandhisshouldertwingedinrecognition.

EventhroughthePlexiglaswindow,hecouldseethiswasthescumbagwhohaddragged
him down that staircase six months ago as he’d been trying to arrest the dirt bag for
dealingdrugs.

“Wheredoyouneedtogo?”Colinaskedtightly,knowinghecouldn’tarrestRamirez

on a technicality or anything even slightly plausible. It would look like he was seeking
retribution.Fuckingdumbluck.

“Broadway,”Ramirezsaidwithasmile.

Colin turned the cruiser around toward the big bridge between Port City and

Southport.

AsColincametothecrestofthealmostmile-longdrawbridge,hispassengerpounded

on the Plexiglas. In the muffled tone of someone in the back of the cruiser, he yelled,
“Dropmehere!”ItwasthelasttimeColinhadseenRamirez.

~~~

Colin resented the Internal Affairs sergeant and any information the sergeant gave

him.DidhethinkColinwasguilty?“That’sright.Igotacallfromdispatchtopickupa
manheadedforSouthport.HetoldmehewasRamirez,butIdidnothingtothatguy.”His
bloodpumpedthroughhisbodyandheneededtopunchsomethingorsomeone.

RegardlessofthefactthatRamireztotallydeservedabeating,Colinhadlefthimon

thebridgewhereRamirezhadwantedtogetout.

“Colin,avideosurveillancecameratakenfromthedrawbridgehousehasfootageof

anofficerdrivingontothebridgeinablackandwhitewithyourplatesandthengetting
outofthecarandtossingRodrigoRamirezoffthebridge.”

Colinfelttheaxfallontohischest.“Areyoukidding?”

“IwishIwas.Wegotthefootagethismorning.Itwasalsosenttothemajortelevision

stations in the city. This is going to be huge for the department, so you’d better tell me
everythingyouknow.”

Colinfoldedhisarmsandsatstaringatthesergeant.Maybeheneededtheunionrep

andalawyer.Hismindwasspinninglikebulletsinarevolver.Thiswasworsethanhe’d
thought when he told Regan about the case. This was why the captain and the sergeant
bothwantedapersonalaudiencewithhim.Ramirez’slawyershadvideoevidenceagainst
him.HewasgoingtosinkalongwithRamirez’scold,deadbody.“SohowcomeI’mnot
beingarrested?”

“There’s no probable cause. They don’t know if he’s actually dead. They haven’t

found Ramirez’s body yet. With the tides and the current under that bridge, he could be
anywhere.”

“Sarge,IswearIdidn’tthrowanyoneoffthebridge.Youknowme.I’musuallythe

onetryingtotalkpeoplebackontothebridge.”

“NooneissorrytoseeRamirezgone,atleastnoonehereatthePD,butI’vealready

receivedthirtycallsfromthepublicsayingtheysawyouonthebridgethatnightandthey
wantjusticeserved.Theydon’twanttheir‘protectandserve’peopletossingsuspectsoff
bridges.”

ThehumorwaslostonColin.Hetriedtoformulateaplantogetoutofthis,already

tried to figure out how this could have happened to him. He was a good officer and he
didn’thaveanyenemiesthatheknewof.Ithadtobeajoke.

“AmIbeingsetup?”Colinaskedseriously.“IsthisCandidCamera?”

“Nojoke,Rourke.Thisisverymuchforreal.You’regoingtohavetomeetwiththe

departmentlawyersaswellasthecaptain.Isuspectthey’llwanttopushthisthroughthe
courtsasquickaspossible.”

Afterabriefpause,Colinlookedup.“CanIleavenow?”

Thesergeantgavehimacurtnodandaslightsmile.“Goodluck.”

Colinboltedfromtheoffice.Hewasgoingtohell,alsoknownascountyjail.They’d

findRamirez’sbody,andColinwouldtakethefallforhisdeath.

HespottedReganthroughthewindowinthedispatchdoorandhisheartconstricted.

There was one thing he never wanted to do and that was to let her down. She’d had
enoughdisappointmentinherlife.Hewatchedherhandleacallandthenshelookedinhis
direction.Asmilestartedacrossherface.Itstartedinhereyesandtraveledtohermouth.
He wanted to run in there and crush her in a bear hug, sucking up all her strength and
energy,buthecouldn’t.Sheputupafinger,tellinghimtowait.

She spoke to her supervisor and then stood and strolled to the door. “What’s going

on?”sheasked,lettingthedoorclosesoftlybehindher.“Youlooklikecrap.”

Hefoldedherintohisarmsandkissedherhead.

“Not here,” she hissed, pushing him away. “We’re supposed to be ending our

relationship.”

“Idon’tcare.Ineedyou.Thisdivorcething,Ineveragreedtoit.”

She smiled and pushed him into a closet across the hall from dispatch. They kicked

theirwaypastbucketsandcleaningsuppliesuntiltheyreachedthebackwall.Helethis
eyesadjusttothealmostblackness.Asliverofdaylightfromunderthedoorgaveenough
lightforhimtoseeher.

“What’sreallygoingon?”sheasked,pullinghishipstohers.

“It’sworse,muchworsethanwethoughtlastnight.”

Shegavehimaworriedlookthathecouldbarelyseeinthedarkcloset.

He continued. “They have a video of who they say is me throwing Ramirez off the

bridge.”

Shesteppedback,awayfromhim,butstillheldontohisarms.“That’sawful.Why

wouldanyonethrowsomeoneoffabridge?”

“YouknowIdidn’tdoit.Icouldn’t.Surehe’sabottom-feeder,butIwouldn’tkillthe

guy.”Hemovedclosertoherandheardherbreathinghitch.“Regan,sweetheart,we’rein
thistogether.Youtrustme,right?”

“Ofcourse,Ido.Ijust…Ineed…Givemeaminutetoprocessthis.”

Hewaitedinthedarkforhertoagreethattheywouldworktogethertoclearhisname.

Hewouldn’tloseeverything.Hecouldn’t.

“The divorce will only take something like two weeks. I checked. And then you’ll

havetomoveout,maybetoJack’sorIcouldmovetomybrother’s.Butno.Ineedtokeep
thehouse.”

Shewastalkingwithoutafilter,blabberingon,andhecouldn’ttakeanothersecondof

it. He closed the short distance between them, his lips seeking and finding hers. Using
onlyhisactions,hepleadedwithher,beggedherandshowedhisloveforher.Throughhis
kiss,hewantedhertoremembershetrustedhim.Theywereinthislifetogether,divorce

ornot.

Hedidn’twanthergoingonaboutthemseparating.Withhisforeheadrestingonhers,

hewhispered,“Iwanttoknowifwe’reinthismesstogetherorareyougoingtobailon
meforreal?”

She touched her lips with her fingers. “We’ll prove your innocence,” she said softly

beforekissinghimonthelipsandfleeingthecloset.

He fell back against the wall. Relief flooded through him. She was with him all the

wayonthis.Shewastough,toughenoughtotakeonPortCityandthecourtsystem.

~~~

As soon as Regan’s shift ended, she ran for her car and the quiet interior. It was

difficult to concentrate on everyone else’s problems when her own life was circling the
toilet bowl. Resting her head on the steering wheel for a minute gave her the chance to
catchherthoughts.

Herphonerang.ItwasBrian’sringtone.Sheranherfingeroverthescreentoanswer

it.“Brian.”Herfriendhadalwaysbeenthereforher.

“Hey,squirt.Arewestillonfortonight?”

“Thatwouldbegreat.Colinhasanotherfewhourstohisshift,andIneedtotalkto

you.”

“I’llseeyouatourrestaurantinhalfanhour.”Hehungupwithoutsayinggoodbye.It

wasoneofhisquirks,nevertosaygoodbye.Reganfiguredthathethoughtifheneversaid
goodbye,thenshewouldn’tleavehimeither.He’dalreadylosttwosetsofparents,losing
morefamilywouldmesshimup.

ShesquealedhertiresasshepulledintothesmallparkinglotofthePizzaHideaway.

They’dspentenoughtimeheretoequalmonthsoftheirlives.Thememoriesofthisplace
threatenedtooverwhelmher,andshesatinthecarafewminutestosettleheremotions.
ThiswaswheresheandBrianhadmetafterthey’dbeenseparated.Everychancetheygot,
theycameheretotalkandsharewhatwasgoingonintheirlives.

She knew crying it out would help her rattled emotions, but she wasn’t that type of

person.Araponthewindowstartledher.

“Ma’am,couldyoustepoutofthecar,please?”

She sighed and lunged for Brian. He wrapped her in a hug and kissed her forehead.

“I’msogladtoseeyou.”

“Metoo,”hesaid,hugginghertighter.

Hewasherolderbrother,butnotbyblood.Herparentshadtakenhiminwhenhewas

eight,adoptedhimandraisedhimastheirownandashersibling.She’dbeensixatthe
timeandthoughthavinganolderbrotherwasmuchcoolerthangettingababybrotheror
sister. Her parents had died on the plane that’d crashed a week after the World Trade
Center disaster. Together, she and Brian survived the troubling teen years and made it

throughcollegestress.

Overtheyears,Brianhadrushedtoherrescueandscaredoffboyswhoweren’tgood

forher.Hehadn’tbeenabletoscareColinoff,howevermuchhetried.

Reganledthewayinsideandfoundaquietbacktable.Thecheckeredtableclothand

drippycandlewasstereotypical,butshethoughtitwasperfectandaskedfortheircandle
tobelit.

Briantookholdofherhand.“Tellmewhat’sgoingon.Youseemsad.”

“Iam,”Regansaid,“I’mdivorcingColin.”

“It’sabouttime.”

“Brian,”shechastised.Hecouldbesoexasperating.“Thisisserious.Ihavetokeep

frompossiblylosingeverythingwehave.”

“Iguessthatmakessense.”Hesqueezedherhand.“Asalawyer,Ihavetotellyouthat

theymightstillcomeafteryouiftheythoughtyouweren’tdivorcedforreal.”

“That’snottrue,”shestammered.“Divorcedisdivorced.Nolongertogether.Dating

others.”

Thethoughtofdatingsomeoneorhavingsomebimbolatchontoherhusbandmade

herqueasy.Putonyourbiggirlpanties,shetoldherself.Shehadtodothisfortheirfuture.

“Colin’sloss.”

“It’snotforreal,Brian.We’regettingdivorcedsoColinwon’townanything.”

Brianpulledhishandbackandcrossedhisarms.

“That’s a dangerous game you’re playing, Regan. I’d think long and hard about it.

Anyway,it’syourdecision.Ifyouwanttomoveinwithme,Ihaveaspareroom.”

“Thanks, Brian. It feels so good to tell someone. The plaintiff’s lawyer has a video

thatshowssomeonewhocouldbeColinthrowingamanoffthebigbridgebetweenPort
CityandSouthport.Ihaven’tseenthevideo,but,oh,Brian,thissucks.”

“You’llbefineonceyougetawayfromthatjerk.Ineverthoughthewasgoodenough

foryou.”

“What’supwithyou?”

“Ihaveafewironsinthefire.”

“Like?”

“Nothingyouneedtoworryabout.Itshouldbeprofitable.”

The waitress came, took their order, and delivered their drinks. Regan watched the

people in the room. She always wondered if any of the people she saw were ones she
helpedonthejob.Thepeoplewhocalledherlinewerefacelesspeoplehandlingsomeof
theworsttimesoftheirlives.

Whowashernine-one-oneoperator?

She smiled at Brian as they shared a pizza with pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions.

Her phone chimed that she had a text message. From Colin. He was leaving work and
headingbacktotheirhouse.Shetuckedthephonebackintoherpocket.

“Somethingimportant?”

Sheshrugged.“Nothingthatcan’twaituntilwe’redone.”Whyshedidn’ttellhimit

wasColin,shewasn’tsure.Hewasherbrotherinreality,ifnotbyblood.Shetrustedhim
as much as she trusted anyone. There were some things he didn’t need to know. She
suckedinadeepbreathandchokeddownanotherbiteofpizzawasheddownwithalong
swigofbeer.

“I’vegottogohome,”shesaidfinally.

Briangaveherthebigbrotherlylookthatsaid,Don’tdoanythingstupid.

She wanted to laugh…Stupid? Like divorce your husband to keep everyone’s assets

safe?

Sheleftafewbillsonthetable,andafteraquickkissonthecheek,sheleftBrian.

Colin’s car was waiting for her when she pulled into her garage. Talking to Brian

alwaysmadeherfeelbetteraboutthings.Thistimehemadeheruneasy.Wasitpossible
thatsomeonecouldcomeafterthemforfraudeventhoughtheywereactuallydivorced?

Sheturnedthedoorknob,andwithasigh,shewentintothehouse.

“Iwantedtobestandinginthedoorwaywithonlymyshoeson,butthat’sbeendone,”

Colinsaidwithawink.

Chapter3

Regan froze when she saw Colin dressed in jeans and a tight, black T-shirt, a rose

clampedbetweenhisteeth.Heleanedhishipagainstthedoorjamandhadhisarmsacross
his chest, his bulging muscles stretching the arm cuffs. He knew she loved that look on
himandshewetherlipswiththetipofhertongue.

RogueRourke.

“Hey,hotstuff.”

She dropped her purse and bag where he’d dumped his gear last night. Her mood

suddenlyimproved.

“Heyyourself.”Sherushedacrosstheroom,almostcollidingwiththechairandthen

thecoffeetableinherhastetogettohim,tobeheldandloved.“I’vemissedyou.”

He didn’t respond. Instead, he grabbed the collar of her shirt. With one hand, he

worked his way down the front, parting it, releasing each button one by one, until he’d
exposed her pink bra and her flat stomach. She remained rooted to the spot. Even if he
hadn’t been holding her waist with one hand, she couldn’t have moved. Her nipples
hardened under his intense gaze. The stress of the day melted away under his masterful
fingers.

Hestrokedherbareskin.Histouchcreatedripplesofgoosebumpsoverherarmsand

tightenedhernipplesuntiltheyached.Heranhishandsupoverherarmsandspreadher
shirt,slidingitdownandoff.

Notwantingtolethimhaveallthefun,shemimickedhisactions,runningherhands

overhisT-shirt,touchingeveryinchofhim.Sheslidherhandloweruntilshecouldfeel
thehardridgeofhiserectioninherpalm.Undoinghisbeltwasatalentshe’dperfected.
HealwaysworeatacticalbeltheldtogetherwithVelcro.Withonepowerfultug,shegave
asatisfiedsmileattherippingsoundasthebeltunzippedaroundhiswaistandflewfree
intoherhand.Italsopulledhishipsintohers—abigperk.

Hiseyeslitwithmischief.“You’resotalented,”hesaid,runninghisfingersthrough

herhair,tiltingherheadsohecouldsuckonherearlobe.

A delicious, throbbing ache started between her legs, before heading north to her

breasts.Shewaspantingforhim,nolongerincontrol.“Ineedyou.”

Sexhadalwaysbeengoodwiththemandnowwiththeimpendingdivorcetherewas

moreurgencyinhermoves.Shewantedtoremembereverytouch,everymoanuntilthey
couldbetogetheragain.

“Yes,youdo.”

“Rightnow.”Sheunzippedhispants,shovedthemtohisfeet,andtookhimintoher

mouth.Afterafewquickstrokesofhermouth,shecircledtheheadofhispeniswithher

tongue.

“Notthis time,” hesaid, pulling herto her feet. Ittook him lesstime to undress her

thanithadtakenhertogethimpartiallynaked.Pickingherup,hepushedherbackuntil
shehitthewallnexttothedoor.Hekeptmovingforwarduntilhisfulllengthwasinside
her.Thesuddennessofhismovementmadeherheartpoundandherinsidesliquefy.

A hiss escaped her mouth as she gripped his black T-shirt. He plunged inside her,

makingsweetcurlsofpassionfloatthroughher,untilsheknewshewasclose.

“You are so hot,” he said, never breaking his rhythm. He bowed his head into the

hollowofherneck,placingfeveredopen-mouthedkissesatthebaseofherthroat.

Sheclungtohimwithherthighstightaroundhiswaist.Tensionbuiltuntilwithone

thrust she stopped moving and rode her climax, while he continued a few more seconds
beforehegroanedandshefelthisreleasedeepinsideher.

Hecarriedherovertothecouchandlaidherdowngently.Shecurledintohischest

withacontentedsigh.

“Changingyourmindaboutthedivorce,yet?”heaskedintoherhair.

“Always,butmyresponsibilityistokeepourfamilysafe.Tokeepussecure.Idon’t

want to be left with nothing because you were doing your job.” She glanced up into his
eyes,whichwerestaringdownather.“Ifilledouttheformsthisafternoon.Allyouhave
todoissignthemandI’lldroptheminthemailtomorrow.That’sit.”

Hedidn’tsayanythinginresponse.

“Colin?Didyouhearme?”

“Yeah, I heard you, but I didn’t like what you said. After the last hour, you want to

talkaboutsigningawaytheendofourmarriage?That’scold.”

She sat up, grabbed her shirt off the floor, and shoved her arms into the sleeves. “I

don’twantthisanymorethanyoudo,butit’swhat’sbest.Theclimateconcerningpolice
officers is not good. They might want to make an example of you. Cops-can’t-play-God
typeofdefense.”

SheknewhehateditwhensuspectsclaimedthatcopswantedtobeGodanddecide

who lives and dies. Just saying it to him made her stomach clench and bile rise in her
throat.Hurtinghimonlymadeherfeelworse.

He jumped up, rigid. “Wow. I can’t believe you said that. I have never tried to play

God.WhenIdomyjob,IamprofessionalandconsiderateofeveryoneIinteractwith.”
Heshookhisheadindisgust.“Fine.GivemethepapersandI’llsignthem.I’llbeoutof
herefirstthinginthemorning.”

Shereachedouttotouchhim,buthesteppedback.

“I’mnottryingtohurtyou,”shepleaded.

Heshruggedandrefusedtolookather.“Youdid.”

Asheleftthehouse,heslammedthedoor,anoisesofinalthatshegrabbedherchest

andcheckedthesobthatthreatenedtobreakfree,butshewouldn’tcry.Sheneverthought
Colin would abandon her. He’d promised to be there forever and now, when times got
tough,heleft.Hadheforgottenhowimportantsecuritywastoher?Hewassowrappedup
inwhatwashappeningtohimthathe’dforgottenthatshewaspartofthistoo.Maybeshe
neededtoremindhimwhythisdivorcewassoimportanttoher.

Regansnuggledintobed,tooheartsicktoreadorwatchTV,soshelaythereuntilshe

fell asleep. She’d left the papers on the kitchen table with a pen and little sticky arrows
pointingtowherehewassupposedtosign.Forthefirsttimesinceherparentsdied,she
criedherselftosleep.

~~~

Colinhadnoideawherehewasgoingwhenhe’dleftthehouse.Regan’sscentwasall

over him. It teased his senses as he drove through the streets of Port City. His city. His
streets.Howcouldthecityhelovedthismuchplaysuchacrueltrickthatultimatelycost
himhismarriage?

Hedroveoverthebridge,thenturnedaroundanddrovebackacrossslowingdownat

thecenter,checkingoutthedarkwaterbelow.

Jack Geib was home when Colin pulled up in front of his house. He met him at the

door.“What’sgoingon?Youlooklikehell.”

With a huge sigh, Colin pushed past the door entering the familiar house. “Got a

beer?”

Jackshookhishead.“Sure.Justasec.”

Colin had nowhere else to turn. Sinking into the oversized chair, he slipped off his

shoesandtriedtoclearhishead,whichhehadn’tbeenabletododrivingaroundtown.

He and Jack had worked together for six years as partners, transferring teams and

watching each other’s backs. When Jack got divorced, Colin and Regan had been there,
offering emotional support and a place to stay until he found one of his own. Though
ReganhaddonemoreofthatthanColinhad.

“We’reintrouble.”Hetookanotherswigfromhisbeer,hisfeetuponthecoffeetable.

Sittingacrossfromhimonthematchingcouch,Jackscrutinizedhim.“Youandme?”

“No.MeandRegan.It’sover.Rememberthatnightyoutookavacationdayforyour

cousin’swedding?IgaveRamirezaridetoSouthport,butheaskedmetodrophimoffon
thebridge.Idid,butnowhe’smissingandtheysaythere’ssomefootageofmethrowing
himoffthedamnbridge.Butyoucan’teventellit’sme.Wealllookthesameinuniform.
I’mafraidthatI’mgoingtotakethefall.”

“Noshit.That’stough,”Jacksaid,takingaswigfromhisownbottle.“Thefamily’s

notgoingtopresscriminalcharges?”

“Theydon’thaveenoughtobuildacriminalcaseon–there’snobody.Noproofthat

it’sactuallymeinthegrainyvideo.Soinstead,they’resuingmeforfivemillioninacivil
trial.AtleastI’mnotsittinginjailwiththedirtbagsI’vearrested.”

He told his best friend the rest of the story. After he finished the first beer, Jack

replaceditwithacoldone.

“Imetwiththecaptaintoday.Hesaidthatit’lltakeamiracletogetmeclearfromthe

charges.Hesaidhe’sseenthefilmthemediahasandthey’llspinit,whichwilltaintthe
jurorpool.I’mscrewed.”

Jackleanedforwardonhisknees.“WhatdoesanyofthishavetodowithRegan?”

“Shedoesn’twanttobeapartofthewholemess.Shehasalreadyhadpapersdrawn

upandiswaitingformetosignthemsowecangetdivorced.”

“Thatdoesn’tsoundlikeher.She’sstrongerthanthat,andIknowforafactthatshe

lovesyou.”

“Loved.”Colinscoffed.

“Dude, that new guy on nights hit on her a few weeks ago and she put him in his

place.Hard.Theguyhadnothingbutcraptosayabouthertoeveryone.Itoldhimshewas
marriedtoyouandyou’dkickhisassbeforehe’dhaveashotwithRegan.”

ColinfistbumpedwithJack.“Thanks,butnow…no.I’dstillbreakhisbonesifhe

camenearher.”

“Didthecaptaingiveyouanyhelpfuladvice?”

“He said I should interview the lawyers the department has on retainer and find the

bestone.WhatthehellamIgoingtodoifthislawyercan’tgetmeacquitted?”

“Idon’tknowwhattotellyou,brother,butdon’tbesonegative.You’reagoodcop.”

Jacktippedbackhisbottleandfinishedhisbeer.

Colinstayedmuchlaterthanhe’dexpectedto.Hedidn’tsaymuchmoretoJackand

Jackdidn’tdoleoutadvicealaDr.Phil.Colin’sbuzzhadwornoffbythetimehegotinto
hiscar,headingforhissoon-to-beex-house.Thisdaysucked.

Athome,thedayonlygotbetter.HescribbledhisnameonthedivorcepapersRegan

hadleftonthetable.Itremindedhimofthedaythey’dgottenmarried.He’dsignedthe
marriagecertificateonlysevenmonthsago.Hisstomachclenched,andhefeltworsethan
heeverhad.Evenhearingthathewasbeingsueddidn’tcomparetotheawfulfeelingof
endinghismarriage.

He considered sleeping on the couch, but dismissed the thought immediately. They

alwayssharedabediftheywerebothhome.Hewasn’tgoingtosleeponthecouchand
neitherwasshe.Besides,tomorrowhe’dhavetoleave.

~~~

Three weeks had passed since Colin had moved out of his house and in with Jack.

ColinhadseenReganatworkalmosteveryday,buttheyhadn’tspokenmuch.Whenthey

did,itwascurtandcivilized.Theymetatthecourthouseforthedivorcehearing,ifone
couldcallitthat,whichhedidn’t.Thewholethingtooktenminutesandtheyweren’tthe
onlycoupletakingtheeasyrouteoutofmarriage.Thecourtroomwaspacked.Someofthe
people were checking email on their touch screens and others were busy glaring at the
persontheycamewith.Thewholethingmadehimsick.Thesetypesofpeoplewerethe
ones he arrested, the ones he busted for domestic violence. He and Regan didn’t belong
therewiththisriffraff.

Theystoodinfrontofthejudge,twofeetapart.

“ColinRourke,youunderstandwhatyouaregivingup?”

Heswallowed,awareofthedoublemeaningofthejudge’swords.Hewasgivingup

morethanjustthematerialpossessions.“Yes,YourHonor.”

“You’rewillingtogivehereverythingyouown?”

“Yes.”

And then it was over. When they left the court house, Regan had tears in her eyes,

though none fell, and Colin felt compelled to reach out to her, but he kept his hands
cementedtohispantlegs.Hiswholeexistencefeltdeflated.

“Here,”she’dsaid,holdingoutherweddingband.“Youshouldholdontothis.”

“Noway.Keepit.It’syours.Areyousureaboutthis,Reg?”

Shegavehimahalf-heartedsmileandshrugged.Sheputtheringintoherpurseand

headedtotheircar.“Needaride?”

“Thisisn’toverbetweenus,”hesaid,notgettingintothecar.Withatapontheroof,

hesentheroffintotheworld.Nowitwasjusthim.

Chapter4

DaysandnightsstartedtomixtogetherforColin.Betweenworkingtheswingshift,

drinkinghisnightsaway,andmissingRegan,hewasslowlygoingcrazy.AsmuchasJack
tried, he wasn’t Colin’s wife, who tolerated his idiosyncrasies and needs. The lack of
carnal activities didn’t help his lack-luster mood, either. Colin thought Jack might be
gettingtiredoftheconstantmopingaroundanditwasconfirmedwhenJack’sannoyance
cametoaheadafewnightslater.

“Geez, you’re starting to get on my last nerve. I thought you said this divorce was

consensual?Ifthat’sthecase,whyareyoublubbering?Dude,I’mstartingtothinkyou’re
agirl.”

Colin tossed a sneaker at his friend’s head and missed. “I didn’t tell you everything

aboutthedivorce.”

“Goon.”

Colin sat on the couch. So maybe he did act somewhat like Dr. Phil. “The lawsuit

freakedherout.Shedoesn’twanttogettakentothecleaners.”

Jacknoddedlikeheunderstood.

“That’swhywegotdivorced.Soshecouldkeepallofourassets.”Hewaitedforthe

reaction from Jack, something that showed he understood what they’d done, but he
obviouslydidn’t.ToColin’searsitsoundedlikeReganwasaselfishbitch,butJackknew
herwellenoughtounderstandthatwasn’tthecase.

“Never mind. Forget I said anything.” Colin would move out if he had anywhere to

go,buthedidn’tandrentinganapartmentseemedtoomuchlikegivingup.

~~~

Regan had been in a fog since the divorce was final. She’d expected she and Colin

would be married forever, and now that her dream had died, she couldn’t get out of her
ownway.Checkingherfridge,sherealizedthatshoppinghadn’tbeenapriority.Theeggs,
coffeecreamer,bottleofwater,andboxofwhitewinewerebeginningtolooklonelyand
patheticinheremptyfridge.Atriptothegrocerystorewasinorder.

Pulling out of the driveway, she headed for the local box store. It was busy this

morning.ThelastthingReganwantedtodowasbesocial,soshekeptherheaddownand
refusedtomakeeyecontactwithanyone.

Shegrabbedacart,wipedoffthehandlewithoneoftheanti-bacterialwipesprovided,

smiledcurtlyatthemanwhoenteredthestorenexttoher,andheadedforthebakery.She
picked up some blueberry muffins, then continued to the deli, followed by the produce.
Everytimesheroundedacorner,thatsamemanwhocameinwithherwasalreadyinthat
aisle.Bythethirdaisle,shenoticedmoredetailsabouthim.

He was middle-aged and old enough to have a wife who might do the shopping for

him.Hiscomb-overcoveredhisthinninghairandhiswhiteT-shirtwasthinandstained.
Sheskippedafewrowstotryandgetaheadofhim,butitdidn’tseemtomatter.Hercart
washalf-fullassheenteredthemeatdepartment.

He was there, like he’d been waiting for her. She looked closer at him, using

techniques Colin had taught her about suspicious people. He was the kind of guy who
lookedlikehelivedinhisparents’basement:greasyT-shirtwithrippedjeans,beadylittle
eyes,andabulgeinhisfrontpantspocket.Itwasthenshenoticedhisemptycart.

Thefoginherbrainclearedandshewasonfullalert.Herheartstartedtobeatfaster

andlouderinherears.Shewipedhersweatypalmsonherpants.Shemadeeyecontact
withhim,andtriedtoholdhisgazeforaslongaspossible.Helookedawayfirst,suddenly
interestedinpremadehamburgers.

Regan started making plans for escaping the building. There was a door to the back

storage area and the front door was a store-length away. She gulped as she passed him.
Adding a few packages blindly, she kept her eyes out for the man to gauge if he was
followingherorifshe’dmadethewholethingup.

IfsomeonewascleverenoughtosetColinup,therewasreasontosuspectthatthey

couldcomeafterhertogettoColin.

Inthedairyaisle,herstalkerwasfingeringtheyogurt.Hepeekedquickly,thenlooked

back down. She added a gallon of skim milk to her cart, a package of cheese, and spun
aroundheadingtotheregisters.

Hewasinthecheckoutlinenexttohers.Tossingapackofgumontheconveyerbelt,

heconcentratedonthecashier.

She glared at him while she stacked her groceries on the conveyor belt. It was still

lightout,whichgaveheramoment’speace.

“Is there someone who can help me out with my groceries?” she asked her cashier.

Shewasn’tstupidenoughtoentertheparkinglotalonewhenthatmanhadbeenfollowing
her.He’dbethestupidoneifhejumpedherwithsomeoneelsepresent.

“Sure,I’llcallsomeonerightover.”

ThemanscurriedoutofthestoreandwenttoawhiteBuickparkedonlyafewspots

awayfromher.Bythetimeshegottohercar,thewhiteBuickwasgone.Shescannedthe
parkinglot,butdidn’tseeit.

“Areyouokay?”theteenboywho’dbeenassignedtowalkheroutasked.

“Ithinkso.Iappreciateyourhelp.Icantakeitfromhere.”

Once she was driving, thoughts swirled through her brain. She must have imagined

thewholething,ormaybehedidn’tgetoutofthebasementmuchandwaswatchingher
becausehethoughtshewasgoodlooking.Ithadn’thappenedbefore,butthatdidn’tmean
it couldn’t happen, she told herself. By the time she pulled into her driveway, she’d
convincedherselfthatshe’dmadethewholethingup.Justtobesafe,shelockedthedoor

tothehouse,threwthedeadbolt,andlatchedthechain.

~~~

“Rourke,seemeafterclass,”thelieutenanttoldhiminfrontofalltheotherofficers

gettingtheirdutiesfortheupcomingshift.

Colin almost missed his name being called, and if it hadn’t been for Jack, he would

have.Classbrokeupafterthatandtheguysmarchedouttotheircruiserstogether.Colin
stayedbehind.

“Lieutenant? What’s going on?” he asked, setting his heavy, tactical black duty bag

downnexttohisfeet.

“Ineedyouonthefrontdeskforthenextcoupleofweeks.Withwhat’sbeengoing

on,Ifeelit’sthebestplaceforyou.”

“Sir,I’mfine.Readytotakeonthecity.”

“I spoke with Jack. He agrees that your game is off. Between the divorce and the

lawsuit,youaren’tyourself.”

Colingrittedhisteeth.Thatratbastard.“Thedesk?Makingnicey-nicewiththepublic

iswhereIshouldbe?”

“Yes.Youdowellthereandwe’lltalkaboutmovingyoubackontoyourbeat.Thisis

onlytemporary.”Thelieutenantcuffedhimonthearm.

Grumbling to himself, Colin picked up his useless bag and stomped into the main

lobby,takinghisnewseatatthefrontdesktotakecomplaintsfrompeople.Oh,healsogot
topressthebuzzertoopenthelockeddoorsintothedepartmentandanswerphones.He
wassoexcitedhecouldjustfallintoacoma.Right.Now.

Heploppedintotheemptychair.“Hello,Kim,”hesaidtothecivilianwhomannedthe

deskwithoneswornofficereveryday.

“Hi,Colin.It’sgoodtoseeyou.I’mgladwe’llbeworkingtogetherforawhile.It’ll

giveusachancetogettoknowoneanother,”shepurredathim.Thesmileshesenthis
waywasmorethanfriendly.

Hehadtolooktwicetoseeifshewaskiddingorreallycomingontohim.Hehadn’t

beenmarriedsolongthathewouldn’tnoticewhenawomanwasinterested.

Hewasabouttosaysomething,whenthedooropenedtothevisitorlobbyandRegan

hurried in. Checking his watch, he chuckled. She was ten minutes late and Regan was
never late. Her hair was tousled and she had bags under her eyes that she’d tried to
concealwithmakeup.Theaveragepersonoffthestreetmightthinknothingofit,buthe
knew something wasn’t right in her world and it tore at his gut. He wanted to make her
smileormaybeevenlaugh.

“Mornin’,Kim.Pleaseletmein,”Regansaidwithoutlookingup.Shereachedforthe

door.

“I’vegotthisone,”Colinsaid,wavingKimoff.“Ma’am,mayIseesomeID?”

Thatgotherattention.Shelookedupandbeforeshecouldchewhimout,shefroze.

Hermouthhungwideopenandherhandshookslightlyonthedoorhandle.

“Colin?Sheworkshere,”Kimwhispered.

“Letmein,Colin.”Thevoicewaslowandserious.

“Comehere,please,”herespondedpatiently.

Sheglaredathim.“Cutthecrapandletmein,Colin.”

“I’mwaitingtoseeyourID.”

Shegaveahugesighandstrodetothewindow.“What?”

Heleanedintowardher.“Youokay?Youlook…notgood.”

Sheshookherheadathim.“See,IjustgotadivorceandI’mnotfeelingmyself.”

Thewords,saidplayfully,atehimupinside.Heknewthetruthtowhatshesaid.They

were written all over her face. “I’m sorry to hear that. I didn’t mean to give you a hard
time.Goaheadin.”Hepressedthebuttonandthedoorunlocked.

“Youknowsheworkshere,right?”Kimasked.

Colingavehera‘seriously?’lookandtookoutabooktoread.

Workingthedeskwaspathetic.Hewasfitfordutyonthestreetsregardlessofwhat

Jackandthelieutenantthought.

Thephonerang.Kimofferedtoansweritandhelether.Thelesssecretarialworkhe

hadtodo,thebetterforeveryoneinvolved.Plus,hecouldn’tstopthinkingaboutRegan.
Even when she was at her worst, she still looked amazing to him. She was tired, but
somethingotherthantheseparationwasbuggingher.He’dbetonit.

Thefirstchancehegottotakeabreakwasalmostanhourlater.Hetookthestairstwo

atatimetothethirdfloorandthedispatchoffice.HehadtoseeifReganwasokay.Inall
thetimehe’dknownher,she’dneverseemedsopreoccupiedand,well,depressed.

He peeked through the glass in the door and willed her to look in his direction. She

hadherheaddownonherdesk.Shewasn’tsleeping.Thatwouldgetherfired.Hetapped
onthewindow,andsixpairsofeyeslookedinhisdirection.Givingasmile,hepointedto
Regan.Theymusthavegottentheideabecausesheliftedherheadandglancedathim.It
took a moment for her to focus, then she gave a weak smile and stood, taking off her
headsetandsettingitdown.

Shepushedthedooropenwithherwholebodyandaftershetrudgedthrough,shelet

it close behind her with a click. Colin could hear the whispering behind the door, but it
didn’tseemtofazeher.

“What?”sheaskedinanexhaustedvoice.

“Areyousick?”

“No.I’mjusttired.”

“Regan, look at me. What’s going on? I know it’s not our separation that’s got you

lookinglikethis.There’ssomethingelse.Youcan’tlietome.I’myourhusband.”

Shescoffed.“Notanymoreyou’renot.”

“Tellme.”

“Youcan’tdoanythingaboutit.”

Hefoldedhisarmsandputonhisbestseriouscopface.“Tryme.”

“It’snothing,Colin.Imeanit.”

She was lying. They’d been together for three years and anytime she’d withheld

informationfromhim,heknewit.He’dfindoutsoonerorlater.

“I’vegottogetbacktowork.”Sheuntangledherselffromhimandwithoutlooking

up,shewentbackintothesemi-darknessofthedispatchoffice.

Hestoodinthehallwaywatchingher,thenwithasigh,hewentbacktothefrontdesk

tofigureoutwhatheneededtodotoendthischarade.

Overthenextfewdays,heputinhishours,takingcomplaintsandpressingthebutton.

Kimdidn’tallowhimtoanswerthephoneafterheansweredonecallwith“What.”Regan
hadn’tcalledandhe’dkepthiscellphoneonhimatalltimes.Hewasreadytoruntoher
aidifneeded.

Kimtriedeverydaytoengagehiminflirtingbanter,buthedidn’thavetheenergyor

desireforit.Therewasonlyonepersonhewantedtotalkto,andshewasavoidinghim.

ThecaptaincalledColinbackintotheofficetogooverwhatwouldhappenwiththe

case.“Everythingismovingalongwithoutaproblem,”thecaptaintoldhim.

Colin sat in a leather chair across from him. Colin didn’t know him well, but he

trustedthemanmostlybecausetheyworethesameuniform.ThelawyerColinhadchosen
from the department’s approved list, Don Petrowinski, was a typical stuffed shirt. Colin
couldtakeorleavehim,buthedidn’tputallofhisfaithinlawyers,especiallyonehired
bythepolicedepartment.

“Yourlawyerwentthroughthepre-trialschedulingconferenceyesterday.”

“I’mnotsurewhatthatmeans,Captain.Iwasn’tsupposedtobethere,wasI?”

“No.”Heleanedbackinhischairandcrossedhisarms.“Thelawyersandcourtmet

and decided on the time frame for the whole trial. You’ll go through discovery, set up
witnessesandexhibitsaswellassitdownwiththeplaintiff’sfamilyformediation.”

“I’mnotsittingwiththefamily.”

“Yes,youare.It’sthelawinthisstate,”thecaptainsaid,pointingathim.“You’renot

goingtobedifficult,areyou?”

Colin didn’t say anything for a minute. He created an answer that wouldn’t get him

fired,butwouldshowhewasn’tapushover.“Iwillbeasdifficultasnecessary.Canyou
honestlysaythatyou’dwanttositwiththefamilyofamanyousupposedlykilled?Which
I didn’t.” Colin leaned forward. “I didn’t do this, regardless of what circumstantial
evidencetheythinktheymayhave.”

“Reasonabledoubt.That’salltheyneedtoconvictyou.Yougetthat,right?”

“Yes,butI’mnotgoingtositaroundandtakeituptheass.”

“If mediation fails, you’ll go to a jury trial, and then the judgment will be handed

down.Ihopeitdoesn’tgetthatfar.”Thecaptainleanedbackinhischair.“Doyouknow
anyonewhowouldhaveitoutforyou?”

“Withinthedepartment?No,Idon’tthinkso.”

“Whataboutyourex-wife?I’msorryaboutthat,bytheway.”

“Regan?Noway.She’dhavemyback.”

Thecaptainstoodandcamearoundthedesk.Heleanedbackonthetopofit,afew

feetfromColin.“Ifshewasupsetaboutthedivorce,orplanningthedivorcebeforeyou
suspected,shemighthavesetsomethingup.”

Colinglaredattheman.Nofreakin’way.TherewasnowayReganwasinvolvedin

settinghimup.Hispalmsdampenedandhetriedtowipethemoffonhispants.Hedidn’t
evenhavearesponseforthat.

“I’mgoingbacktothedesk.Ifyouneedme,youknowwhereIam.”Sinceyouwere

oneofthepeoplewhoputmethere.

“Letmeknowifyouhaveanywitnessestohelpyourcase.Characterorsomeonewho

mighthaveseensomething,”thecaptaincalledtoColinashelefttheoffice.

Hisbloodwasboiling.Hehadtofindthepersonwho’dsethimup.Theprobabilityof

itbeingReganwasaboutasminuteasfindingabulletintheAtlanticOcean.

Chapter5

TheendofRegan’sshiftindispatchwasalwaysbittersweetforher.Shewasgladto

have the stress of the day finished, but then again, she hated going home to an empty
houseeverynight.She’dneverbeenafraidofanythingbeforethedivorceuntilshestarted
seeingthesamemandrivingthewhiteBuickwatchingheratthegrocerystore,outsideher
house,andonherwaytowork.

She now kept her shades pulled and her doors locked and deadbolted. What she

wanted was her husband to comfort her or to kick the guy’s ass. She’d take either. He
alwaysworeaT-shirtandjeanswiththebulgingpockets.Heneverboughtanythingatthe
grocerystoreanddrovebyherhouseorthestation.Whostalkedsomeonewhoworkedat
thepolicedepartment,otherthansomeonewhohadabeefwithanofficer?

Sheleftdispatchwhenhershiftwasover,takingthestairstotheinteriorlobby.She

didn’twanttoadmitit,butshewantedtoseeColinbeforedrivinghome.JustseeingColin
wouldgiveherconfidence.

She rounded the last landing before the lobby and stopped cold as female laughter

echoed off the cement walls. Then she heard Colin. “I said, not if I arrest you here and
now.”Therewasmorelaughter.

Scowling,sheglidedslowlydownthelastflight.Fromwhatshecouldsee,therewas

abunchofwomenpackedintothelittlespaceKimandtheofficersharedwhileworking.
TheywereallcrowdedaroundColin,whowaslaughingandsmilingatthem.

“Oh,Colin,you’resofunny,”saidonewoman.

“Tellusanotherstory,”highpitched-voicedwomansaid.

“It’smyturntositonhislap.”

Regan recognized the voice as a female officer who’d attended the police academy

withColinandhadbeenagoodfriendtoher.

Regan saw red. How dare these vultures flock around Colin as soon as he was

technically single? Technically, because she didn’t consider him unattached. A smile
plastered on her face, she sauntered up behind the five or six women gathered around
Colin.AtleastshehopeditwasasmileandnotanI’m-going-to-freak-out-on-all-of-you
look.

She stood there for a few minutes before the woman sitting on Colin’s lap stood

abruptly.Atleastthattramphadthesensetolookregretful.Onebyonethewomenturned
tolookather,thenhurriedofflikecriminalsduringadrugbust.Reganrecognizedsome
ofthewomenashercoworkersfromdispatch.Traitors.

Regan made eye contact with Colin, then raised her eyebrows. “Did I interrupt

something?”

Colinjumpedtohisfeetandmovedtowardher.Shebarelyhadtimetoblinkbefore

his warm body was in front of her. From the corner of her eye, she saw Kim watching
themintently.

“Iwasvisiting,”hesaid.

Reganshookherheadonce.“That’sthebestyou’vegot?”

“Well,I…it’ssoboringhere.Nooffense,Kim.”

Kimpokedherheadupbetweenwheretheystoodalmosttoetotoe.“Youguysaren’t

together anymore, right? He’s fair game. I hadn’t realized that you were married at one
time.”Sheusedatoneofvoicelikeshehaddirtonawitnessandcouldn’twaittorubitin
herface.

ReganstaredpastColin.“Wehaven’tbeendivorcedsolongthatIwouldwantmyex-

husband hooking up with women so completely wrong for him. Take you for example.
You’vepracticallybeenthrowingyourselfathimsincehestartedonthedesk.See,Kim,I
hearthingstoo.”

ReganbaredherteethatColin,thenturnedonherheelandstormedaway.Thatladies’

man.Hewassoinlovewithherthathecouldn’twaittogetdivorcedsothewomenatthe
station could fall all over him? She wanted to give him a piece of her mind, tell him
exactlywhatshethoughtofhimandhisharem,butshecouldn’t.Home.She’dgohome.

~~~

She’d never been a nervous person. She was confident and confronted trouble head

on, except for the last few weeks. Knowing that Colin was being sued by a family of
possible felons was a cause for worry. Was she being followed so they would learn her
patternsandonedaygrabher?Thenitcouldbeherflyingoffthebigbridgeintothefrigid
waterbelow.Theyprobablywouldn’tfindherbodyeither.

Her limbs started to convulse with nerves as she drove down the tree-lined street

towardherhouse.Oncethere,shetriedtosteadyherhandsenoughtoputherkeyinthe
doorknob.

Whenherkeyshitthestoop,shelookedaround,panicked.Wasanyonewatchingher?

Regardless that she was in a relatively safe neighborhood, where neighbors observed
suspiciouspeople,shewasn’ttakingchances.Sheretrievedthekeys,shovedthekeyinto
thelock,andwithherarm,shepushedthedoorsoharditwhackedagainstthewall.Then
shescurriedinsideandlockedthedoor.

Her heart racing, she scanned the immediate rooms for things out of place or for a

person hiding behind the curtains. She flipped on lights, deadbolted the door, and went
intothekitchentocalmherrattlednerveswithacupoftea.

More than anything she wanted to call Colin, to hear his reassuring voice, to know

he’dbecomingthroughthedoorandwouldkeephersafe.Butno,thatdreamwasoverfor
the time being. She knew they would get back together once the lawsuit was over.
However,fornow,shewasonherown.

Hercellphonerang,startlingher.Pullingitoutofherpurse,shesmiledatthenumber.

Brian.

“Boy am I glad to hear from you,” she said, flopping down in a kitchen chair. She

droppedherheadinherhandsasherhairfellforward.

“What’sgoingon?Trouble?”

“No.Juststuff.I’mlonelywithoutColinaround.Thishouseistoobigandempty.”

“Wantmetocomeover?”heasked.“Ihavesomethingtotalktoyouaboutanyway.”

Shesatbackinthewoodenchair.“Tellmenow.”

“I’drathertellyouinperson.It’simportant.Icanbethereintenminutes.”

Hesoundedsoeager,buthangingoutwithBrianwasneverjusthangingout.Shefelt

like she had to cater to him, make sure he was comfortable. “I’m really tired,” she
protested.

“Iwon’tstaylong.Ineedtoseeyou.”

She gave in, like she usually did if he pushed long enough. With his pathetic

childhood,havinglosttwosetsofparentsandbeingmovedfromplacetoplace,shehad
alwaysgiveninifhepushedhardenough.Sheonlywishedhedidn’twanttocomeover
afteralongdayatwork.

Hearing a knock, she felt her heart react to the noise with a lurch. She checked the

peepholeandherstomachfelllikeadeflatedballoon.Truetohisword,Brianwasather
doorintenminutes.Sheknewhewascoming,butsomewhereinhersubconsciousshe’d
hoped it was a man with smoldering green eyes, who melted her barriers and made her
wantwhatshewasn’tsupposedtohaveanymore.SheunlockedthedoorandletBrianin.
Hepushedherbackandsmotheredherinabearhug.

“I’vemissedyou,”hesaidintoherhair.

“Yousawmetheotherday,”sheresponded,pullingoutofhisembrace.“Sowhatis

thisimportantinformationyouhaveforme?”

Hegesturedtothecouch,andtheysat.“Thingsaregoingreallywellformeatwork.”

He touched her hand that she’d rested on the back of the couch. She encouraged him to
continuetalking.“Igotanewcasetoday.It’sthecaseagainstColin.Ourfirmpickedup
theclientfromafeelerthepartnersputout.Theyassignedmetothecase.Isn’tthatgreat?
Myfirstrealcourtcase.”

Herjawfellopen,andshefrowned.Washekidding?Thiswasnotgreatnews.Inno

one’sbookwasthisagoodidea.Shedidn’tevenknowhowtoreactwithoutsettinghim
off.

Sheshookherhead.Thenshestartedtoopenhermouthandfaltered.Again,shetried.

Nothing.

“Brian?Thisisthecaseagainstmyhusband.”

“Ex-husband. See, there’s no conflict of interest because he’s your ex and we’re not

bloodrelated,anyway.Besides,Ican’tsaynotomybosses.It’sjustnotdone.”Hepatted
herhand.“It’llbeokay.Youcancomewatchme.”

Shegrittedherteeth.Brianwasn’tgettingitatall.Hadhealwaysbeenthisdense?She

consideredremindinghimthatsheandColinwereonlydivorcedbecauseofthetrial,not
becausetheyweren’tinlove,butthoughtbetterofit.Ifhewastheplaintiff’slawyer,she
should keep her mouth closed. Anger with Brian and fear for Colin mixed in her chest.
She rubbed it, worried that the pressure was going to be too much for her to deal with.
Maybeshe’dbookavacationoutoftownforthenextmonth.

“I’mnotsurehowoftenI’llbeabletobethere,butI’lltry.”Shesmiledandpretended

tobeexcitedforhim.Itwasatotalact,butheboughtit.Shewastakenabackathowblind
hewastoherfeelings.

“It will be great to have my own cheering section. Having you there will mean so

muchtome.”

Shepulledherhandawayfromhisandcrossedherarms.“Ithinkit’stimeforyouto

go.I’vehadabusydayandanotheroneisscheduledfortomorrow.Canyouseeyourself
out?”

Hefroze.Alookofhurtflittedacrosshisfaceandthenhewasbackinhiscomposed-

lawyerface.“I’llseeyousoon.Callmeifyouneedanything.”Heleanedinforanother
hug,butshewasfasterandstoodwithoutmakingcontactwithhim.

“Goodnight,Brian.”

As soon as the door shut, she picked up her phone and dialed the number she had

memorized.WhensheheardColin’svoice,shesighed.

“Hello,beautiful.”

Shesighedagain.“Whereareyou?”

“Ijustgotintomycar.I’monthewayhome.You?”

“I’m at the house. Brian was just here.” There was silence on the other end of the

phone.ReganknewColindidn’tlikeherbrother,butshealwayshopedthey’dgetalongat
leastforhersakeifnothingelse.AfterallBrianwasfamily.“He’sgoingtobethelawyer
fortheplaintiff’sinyourcase.”

“What?”Colinsaidinalow,dangerousvoice.

Shecouldimaginehimgrippingthesteeringwheeltight,hismouthsetinahardline

andthemuscleathistemplethrobbing.“Icouldn’tbelieveitwhenhetoldme.Itoldhim
everythingaboutus.Canheusethatagainstyou?”

Anotherpause.Thelengthconcernedher.

“I suppose Brian could use it to hurt me, which I’m sure he would love, but it’s

probablynotlegal.”

“Hewassoexcitedabouthisfirsttrial,hedidn’tevenrealizeitwouldbeawkwardfor

me.”

“Doyouwantmetocomeover?”Hisvoicewassultry,fullofunspokenpromisesof

whisperedkissesandsilkycaresses.

Shewavered.Ifhecameover,theywouldendupinbed.Whenshethoughtaboutthe

women climbing all over him at the station today, it gave her the heebie-jeebies. She
wantedtomarkherterritory,claimhimashers,butitwasn’tpartofthedivorceplan.They
weresupposedtobedivorced.Endofrelationship.

Besides,whoeverwasfollowinghermightseehim,takeapotshot,ortrytohurthim.

She refused to put Colin in danger. “No. You should go back to Jack’s house,” she told
himwithremorse.

“Aslongasyou’reokay.”

“Iwanttoseeyou,Colin,butIdon’tthinkit’sagoodidea.”

“It’s time for you to come clean. I know you’ve been keeping something from me.

What’sgoingon?And,don’ttellmenothing.”

“It’snothingimportant,likegoingtotrial.”

“Whatisit?”hedemanded.

“I’veseenthisguyfollowingmearoundtowneversincethedivorce.”Shetoldhim

aboutthegrocerystoreandtheothertimesshe’dseenherstalkerandwhathelookedlike.

“Really?” He drew the word out. She heard a loud thud, like Colin was hitting the

tableorawall.“Didyougethisplatenumber?”

“No.Iforgottolook.”

“Ishestillfollowingyou?”

Shepaused.“No.Ihaven’tseenhimrecently,”shelied.She’dseenhimwhensheleft

thepolicedepartmentjusttoday.“I’mfine.I’mgoingtobednowanyway.”

“Why didn’t you call me as soon as you thought you were being followed? That

wouldn’thavebeenoutoftherealmofwhatformerloverswoulddo.”

“You were dealing with the trial and Jack. You didn’t need me telling you ghost

stories.”

“Youwillcallmewhenyouseethiscreepagain,right?”

Shenodded,eventhoughhecouldn’tseeher.

“Icanbethereintenminutesifyouneedme.”

“Ican’tkeepbotheringyou,”shesaid,thewordscatchinginherthroat.

“Botherme,Regan.Iloveyou,”hesaid,softly.

“Me,too.”Shehungupthephoneandsankbackintothecouch.“Oh,Colin,”shesaid

onasightotheemptyroom.

The next morning, Regan woke early and was at the station well before her shift.

Alteringherusualroutinewasfirstonherlistofthesingle-Reganplan.Shehadn’tseen
herstalkertoday,thankfully.Maybeshe’dthrownhimbygettingtoworkearly.

She was still nervous and shifted from foot to foot as she stood in the corner of the

dispatch office. Standing in the back of the dark room afforded her the opportunity to
listen in on her co-workers without them knowing she was there. She wasn’t a gossip
exactly, but she didn’t mind finding out what people were thinking and talking about
aroundthestation.

“DidyouseeReganandColinyesterday?Helookedmad.”

“Yeah,Iwouldn’tthrowhimoutofbed.”

“Meeither.Idon’tknowwhathappened,butI’msureitwasherfault.”

“Noway.Regan’stoomuchofagoody-goody.He’sthebadboy.Thatlawsuittellsit

all.Theysayhetossedacriminaloffthebridge.”

“Still,Iwouldn’tthrowhimoutofmybed.”

“You’reincorrigible.”

Regantriedtoblendfurtherintothewall.Thiswasnotthetimeforhertojumpout

and say, “I’m here, you selfish bitches. He’s mine.” She knew breaking up with Colin
would be difficult, she hadn’t realized how much the water cooler talk would affect her.
Herheartbrokealittlemoreeverydayaswordgotout.Shesuckedinaraggedbreathand
foughtthetearswellinginhereyesandthetightnessthatformedaroundherchestlikea
metalvise.

Afterafewminutes,sheslippedoutthedoorandintothehallway,rightintoahard

chest.

Ooof.

“Easythere,”adeep,malevoicesaid.Stronghandsgrippedherwaisttosteadyher.

“I’msorry.Iwasn’twatchingwhereIwasgoing,”Reganstammered,lookingupinto

thehandsomeface.“Jack,”shesaid.“I’msorry.Howareyou?”

Hedidn’tlethergoimmediately.Hegaveheraneasysmile.“I’mgood.Sorryabout

thestuffwithyouandColin.He’sbeenapainsincemovingin.”Hegavealittlechuckle.
“NotthatIhavetotellyouthat.You’velivedwiththeguy.”

“ThatIhave.”Shegavehimagenuinesmile,probablyherfirstrealsmileinaweek.

“Whatareyoudoinglater?Wanttogetsomelunch?Ordinner?”

“Me?”sheasked.

“Sure,whynot?”Hereleasedherandshefellbackastep.

“Idon’tknow,Jack.You’reColin’sfriend.Itseemsweirdforustosocialize.”

Heraisedhiseyebrows.

“Did Colin tell you why we broke up?” she asked, shifting her weight from foot to

foot.

“Yeah.Hesaidyoucouldn’thandlethetrialhewasgoingthrough.”

“That makes me sound terrible,” she said, slapping his arm. There was no thrill in

touchinghim,notlikewhenshetouchedColin.

“You know that’s not what I mean. Come on. Dinner tonight after your shift. No

pressure.”

“Okay,” she said, looking forward to getting out and having a police officer as an

escort,justincase.

After Jack’s invitation, work flew by. It was good to have something to think about

otherthanamanfollowingher,atrial,andanemptyhousetogohometo.Shewondered
whyColindidn’ttellJackthetruthabouttheirdivorce.DidhenottrustJack?She’dkeep
thesecretuntilshehadtimetotalktoColinaboutit.

When Jack arrived at the house, she watched him stroll up the walkway, dressed in

jeansandasportcoat.SheglanceddownatherjeansandT-shirtanddecidedtochange
quickly. She heard him on the porch. She had her shirt off, when the bell rang. She
shimmedoutofherjeans.Pullingacasualdressoutofthecloset,sheslippeditonover
herheadassheboltedforthestairs.

“Coming,”shecalled,runningdownthestairs.Shecouldseehiminthedoorwindow.

She slid across the floor, grabbing hold of the door. Pulling it open, she grinned widely.
“Hey,Jack.Comeonin.”Shefastenedanearringintooneearandthentheother.

“Youlookamazing,”hesaid.

Nervescausedherhandstotremble.Shehadn’tbeencomplimentedbyanotherother

than Colin in a long time. It was awkward and she wasn’t sure she liked the feeling.
Having Jack there for her and not for her husband was unnerving. She was going on a
date.Adatewithherhusband’sbestbud.Shehadamomentofhesitationatthesomewhat
doublestandardshewascreating.

This wasn’t a date. It was having dinner with Colin’s best friend. If Colin or the

women at work found out, it wouldn’t be a big deal, she tried to convince herself. She
didn’twantColintotakeupdatinganynumberofthewomenthrowingthemselvesathim
sincethedivorcebecameofficial.

However,maybeifthemanwatchinghereverymovegottheideashewasdatingand

donewithColin,he’dstopfollowingher.Thisdategavecredibilitytothedivorcestory.
She smiled. That was the excuse she was sticking with. Credibility to their story.
Admittingthatshewashappytobegoingoutwasalittlemoredifficultforher.

Jackwentintothelivingroom.Hispresenceinherhousemadeherantsy.

Whattheheckwashedoing?

Instead,sheasked,“Wherearewegoing?”hopingitwasn’toneoftheplacessheand

Colinlovedtogototogether.She’dalwaysloveditwhenColintookheroutonthetown.
Dancing,dinner,drinks,itdidn’tmatteraslongastheyweretogetherandwereinpublic.

“It’sasurprise,”Jacksaid,approachingherwarily.

Regangavehima‘cutthebullshit’lookbeforegrabbinghersweaterthatwashanging

bythedoor.

Jacktookthesweaterfromherandhelpedherslipiton.Herbreathfaltered.

“Thisfeelssowrong,Jack.”

“It’s not. I’ve wanted the chance to ask you out since before you and Colin got

together.Thiswasmychance,andIdidn’twanttomissout.”

Leadinghimonwasthelastthingshewantedtodo.ShewasstillcommittedtoColin,

regardlessofwhatitsaidonpaperorinthecourtsystem.Jackknewthis.Heknewhow
muchinlovesheandColinwere.Maybehewastryingtobrightenherspiritsbysaying
nicethings.

Going for the avoidance technique, she said, “Let’s hit the town.” She led him back

out to his car, his warm hand burning through her clothes where he touched her on her
lowerback.

Theydrovethroughtown,talkingandlaughing.Itfeltgoodtohertofinallyletloosea

little.She’dbeensotensesincethedayColintoldheraboutthetrialthatshehadclosed
offthefunsideofReganandstrictlyworkedthebusinesssideofRegan.

HetookhertoalittleChineserestaurantjustoutsideofPortCity.Overeggnoodles

andsweetandsourchicken,theygottoknowoneanotherasfriends,asindividuals,not
just Colin’s best friend and Colin’s wife, which was how they’d interacted when they’d
lived under the same roof after Jack’s divorce. They were just about to leave the
restaurant,whentheowner,asmallChineseman,camerunningtowardthem.

“Fortunecookie,”hesaidinbrokenEnglish.“Fortunecookie.”Inhishandheheldout

twocookieswrappedincellophane.

Regan took one, and Jack picked up the other. They smiled and thanked the man

beforeleavingandsettlingintothewarmthofthecar.

“Glad we didn’t forget these,” Jack said, ripping into his bag. He broke his cookie,

pulledoutthepaper,andread,“Lovetheoneyou’rewith…inbed.”

Sheopenedhereyeswide.“That’snotwhatthatsays,”sheprotested.

“Don’tyouknowyou’resupposedtoadd‘inbed’toeveryfortune?DidColinteach

younothing?”

“Obviouslynot.”

“Openyours,”hesaid,watchingherfiddlewiththebag.

“MaybeIshouldwait.”

“Chicken,”hegoaded.

“I … fine.” She popped the bag, cracked the cookie, and the paper fell into her lap.

Gingerly, she picked it up. “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. In bed,” she
read.“Eww.Lemonadeinbed.That’smessy,butIcertainlyhaveenoughlemons.”

“Ihopethatdoesn’tincludeme,”Jacksaid,leaningintoher.

Hewasgoingtokissher.Sheknewitaswellassheknewherownname.Kissingher

husband’s best friend … He was moving closer. His eyes drifted shut and she was
transfixedonhislipsastheyapproachedhers.

Shesteppedtotheside,tookhishand,andpulledhimoutoftherestaurant.

Chapter6

ColinpacedthefloorofJack’sapartment.Theson-of-bitchwasstillonhisdatewith

somenewbabeandColinhadn’theardfromReganallday.Hewasstartingtogetnervous
aboutwhyshewasn’thomeandhadn’treturnedhisphonecalls.Healsohadtobeatwork
inhalf-an-hour.Hehadtomeetwithhislawyerinthemorningafterhisshift,buttonight
hewasridingthepineonthefrontdesk,again.Beinglatewasn’tanoption.However,at
nighthecouldreadorwatchsometelevisionwhennoonewasaround.

Heslammedhisfistonthetable.WherethehellwasJack?Justthen,thedooropened.

Colinrushedhim.

“Wherethehellhaveyoubeen?I’vebeencallingyouandtryingtofindyou.”

“Why?What’shappened?”Jackasked,concernwrittenonhisface.

“It’sRegan.Ican’tfindher.She’snotansweringherphoneandourneighborsaidshe

left with some guy hours ago. Did I tell you that she’s being followed? Someone is
stalking her and I don’t know who it is and can’t do anything about it!” He was almost
yellingbythetimehestoppedtotakeabreath.

“Reganishome.Ileftherthereafewminutesago.”

“Whatdoyoumean,‘Youleftherthere’?”

“Wewentouttonight.Ididn’tthinkyou’dmind,sinceyou’re—”

Colinlaidhimoutwithonepunchtotheface.

BythetimeJackwokeup,Colinhadanicepackforhimandfeltatadbadforhitting

him,consideringhe’dbeengoodaboutlettingColinliveinhishouse.

“Dude. What’s wrong with you?” Jack said, pushing up on his elbow, holding his

head.

“Regan?Youwentonadatewithmywife?”Colinwascalmer,butnotbymuch.He

kepthisfistsathisside.

“Itwasn’tofficiallyadateandyou’redivorced.”

“Bro.Doesn’tmatter.She’sofflimitstoyou.”Hisbreathingwascominginpants,and

hethoughthewasseeingspots.Thatdick.

JackstoodupwithoutColin’sassistance.“I’mnotsurethissituationisgoingtowork

anymore.Maybeyou’dbetterfindsomewhereelsetolive.”

“I’msorry,Jack.IwasworriedaboutReganandthenwhenyousaidyou’dbeenout

withher,Isnapped.Itwon’thappenagain.”

Jackcrossedhisarmsandraisedhischin.“WhatifIwanttoseeheragain?Sheneeds

support.”

Colinraisedhisfist,buthadasmirkonhisfacetoshowtherewerenohardfeelings

onhispart.However,thesmirkwasacompleteact.Hewantedtopunchtheguyagainand
puthiminhisplaceasthefrustrationandangerburnedaholeinhisstomach.Therewas
nowayhewantedJacknearRegan.EveryoneknewJackwasabad-boyladies’man,the
love ’em and leave ’em type. His reputation went far beyond the walls of the Port City
PoliceDepartment.

“That’s what I thought,” Jack said. “You can’t handle the thought of Regan getting

involvedwithsomeoneelse.”

“Exactly,andnotwithmybestfriend.Didyousleepwithher?”

Jackheldupbothofhishands.“No,dude.Wayoutofline.Backdown.”

Colinclenchedhisfiststighter.“I’mgoingoutforalittlewhile.Ineedtocooloff.”

Jackdidn’tsayanythingasColingrabbedhiskeysfromthesideboardandleft.Ashe

madehiswaytothecar,hecalledinsicktowork.

TherewasonlyoneplaceColinwantedtobe.Thecardroveacrosstownlikeitwas

onautomaticpilot.Hepulledoverthecurbsotwowheelswereparkedinthegrassandthe
otherwerestillontheroad.Regan’slightwasonintheirbedroom.Hecouldn’tseeher,
butshe’dalwaysbeencarefulaboutbeingseenfromthefrontwindows.Jumpingoutof
thecar,hestrodetothefrontdoorofhishouseandrangthebell.

Therewasn’ttimetorememberthatshewouldbefreakedbyhavingavisitorthislate

atnight.Heyelledthroughthecloseddoor,“Regan,it’sme,Colin.Letmein.”

Heheardherpushagainstthedoor.Shewascheckingthepeephole.Hesteppedback

soshecouldseehim.“Colin?It’slate.Whatareyoudoinghere?”Thedeadboltslidfree
andsheundidthechain.“Iseverythingokay?”

As soon as the door was open, he flew at her and caught her off guard, his mouth

seekingherswithprecisionaccuracy.Hislipsmethers,andhefelthersmakealittle‘O’
ofsurprisebeforesherelaxedintohiskiss.Herarmswerearoundhimandwithakickto
thedoor,theywereinside,grabbingandclutchingatoneanother.Hewantedtobethelast
manshekissedandlovedbeforeshewenttobedeverynight.Itwashimhewantedherto
dreamhot,sweaty,steamydreamsabout.

“Oh,Colin.”

“Regan.Idon’twantyoutobewithanyoneelse,ever,”hesaidbetweenkisses.

“No.Idon’twantanyoneelse,”shesaid,tuggingathisclothes.

Withonemotion,hepulledoffhershirtanddippedhisheadtosuckleonhernipple.

“Wait,” she said, stepping back. “We can’t do this. What if someone sees us? We’re

supposedtobedivorced.”

“Idon’tgiveacrap,”hesaid,runninghishandsthroughherhair,snagginghisfingers

inthelongcurls.Hemissedherhairandthefreshscentthatitreleasedasheplayedwith
it.

Sheputherhandsoneithersideofhisface,andhewatchedtheconcentratedlookshe

gavehimbeforesheputallhereffortsonlovinghismouth.Helethertakeoverandthe
musclesthathadtensedupwhenhe’dheardshe’dbeenonadatestartedtorelaxlikeshe
was massaging each taut knot. She slid her hands down over his shoulders, touching
musclesthatwerereleasingandbecomingputtyinherhands.

Hegroanedatthepleasurethatslowlycurledthroughhisbody.Herubbedherscalp

and then her neck. Her muscles were as tense as his own. The ones lower on her back
remindedhimofcement.

“What have you been doing?” he asked, rubbing her, his thumbs digging into her

sensitiveflesh.

“I’malittletense,butIknowwhatwouldhelprelaxme.”Shelookedintohiseyes.

Thetwinklehewasusedtoseeingwasthereandhisheartmelted.He’dgiveheranything
shewanted.

“Let’sgo.”Hetookherhandandledhertotheirbedroom.Shetookoffherjeansand

socks. She left on her bra and panties, sexy, black, lacy things that made him consider
naughtyalternatives.“Onthebed,”heordered.

No protest from her. She lay back on the covers and smiled up at him. He got into

position at the foot of the bed and picked up her right foot. He started rubbing the sole
withhisthumbs,smoothingthelotionhe’dfoundonthebedsidetable.

Shemoaned,lowandsexy,inherthroat.

“That’sright.Relax.”Hepushedonaspotthatwouldhelpwithhershoulders.Aftera

minute, he moved to another pressure point to ease her aches and pains, a trick he’d
picked up when he was a cadet at the academy. He learned how to get rid of headaches
andotherissuesbyusingreflexology.Hehadalsobeendatingamassagetherapistatthe
time, which helped his hands-on lessons. Regan had always loved that he knew
reflexology,andwhenshe’dhadastressfulday,she’dbeghimtoworkonher.

Hepressedonthepartofherfootthatmadeherwildwithneedforhim.Shestarted

writhing under his touch. “No fair,” she groaned. He’d even made her come that way
beforeandifhehadhiswayshewouldagain,tonight.Applyingevenpressure,heheldon
toherfootasshethrashedandtriedtokickfree.

“Laystill,”heordered.

“I can’t,” she moaned. Her gasps and deep throat sounds turned him on more than

seeinghercompletelynaked.Movingonefingertoanotherpressurepoint,shethrewher
headbackandscreamedherrelease.Sheconvulsedandshiveredassherodeherorgasm.
Asshecamebacktoreality,hesmiledatherandplacedahandonherpelvistosteadyher.

“Relaxed?”

Shesighed.“You’rethegreatestthingsincenine-one-one.”

“Shoot.Iwashopingforgreatestthingever.”

“That too,” she said without opening her eyes. “Come up here.” She patted the bed

nexttoher.

Heslippedoutofhisjeansandcurledupnexttoher,snugglingintoherneck.“Isn’t

thereawaywecanworkthroughthistrialthing?Idon’twanttobeawayfromyou.”

“Jacksaidyoumissedme.Or,wasitthathemissedmecleaningupafteryou?”she

asked,turningherheadtowinkathim.

“Don’tmentionthattraitor.Iwanttobetheoneyoudreamaboutatnight.”

Shegraspedhishand.“Youare.”

Whenthedoorbellrang,bothofthemsatboltupright.“What’sthat?”Regansaidto

the dark room. She glanced over at the clock. It was one. “No one rings the bell at this
timeofthenight.”

Sometimeduringthenighttheymusthavecrawledunderthecoversandfallenasleep,

butshecouldn’trememberthemdoingit.Sheslippedonherbathrobeandpaddedtothe
door.

“Regan, no,” Colin said in a hushed tone. “Let me go.” He pulled a pistol from his

holsterhungonhispants.

Now she was afraid. Was the crazy stalker here, thinking she was alone? She hid

behindawallandwatchedColingotothediningroomwindowandmovethecurtainto
peekout.

Shesawhimgrimaceandthenwavedhertothedoor.“Answerit,”hemouthed.“It’s

safe.”

She walked slowly to the front door and looked through the view finder. Stepping

back,shegaveawide-eyedlookatColin.Thepolicewerehere,atherhouse.Shehadn’t
calledthem.Whatbroughtthemtoherdoor?shewondered,yankingthedooropen.She’d
beensoblownawaytoseeColinshehadn’tevenboltedthedoor.Acarelessmistake.

“Hello,Officers.Littlelateforahousecall,isn’tit?”Sherecognizedoneofthetwo

officersasamanwhoworkedwithColinontheovernightshift.

“Regan,wereceivedaphonecallfromoneofyourneighbors.HesaidColinwashere

andforcedhiswayintothehouse.”

“WhywouldColinbehere?”sheasked.

“Hiscarispoorlyparkedoutfront.Howaboutyoutelluswhat’sgoingon?”

Regan crossed her arms across her gaping robe and looked in Colin’s direction for

advice.Seeingnone,sheinvitedtheofficersinside.

“Hey, guys,” Colin said, entering the living room from the dining room. “Someone

reallycalledtocomplainaboutme?”

Theofficersexchangedaworriedlookandreachedfortheirguns.“Droptheweapon,

Colin.”

Colinraisedhishandsoverhishead,stillholdinghisdepartment-issuedgun.

“Putthegunonthetableandstepawayfromit,”theyoungerpoliceofficerordered.

Colinrolledhiseyesanddidashewastold.“DidyouthinkIwasgoingtoshootone

ofyou?YoushowuphereunannouncedanduninvitedandexpectI’mgoingtocometo
thedoorunarmed?You’redreaming.”

“You don’t live here anymore from what I’ve heard,” Colin’s buddy said, scanning

Colin,whowasdressedonlyinhisboxers.Theman’seyesnarrowed.

Regan stepped in between the men. “Colin and I had some unfinished business to

attendto.Asyoucansee,everythingisfine.Thankyouforyourconcern.”

LookingatColin,theyoungerofficersmiled.“Nexttime,tryparkinginthedriveway

insteadofonthecurb.”

RegancouldtellthatColindidn’tappreciatetheeditorialcomments.“I’llbeleaving

soonanyway.Weweredone.”

“Whatwasityouweredoing?”theolderofficerasked.

Regan shot a look at Colin, begging him to create a plausible story. After a full

minute, Colin answered, “My wife, ex-wife, needed some signatures on some banking
papers.”

“Thislateatnight?”

“Yes.ShewasoutearlierthiseveningandIhadthingsIwasdoing.”He’dbeenbusy

sitting on the couch at Jack’s house watching TV and wondering where the heck Regan
was,buthewasn’tgoingtosaythat.

“Wecanwalkoutwithyou,”theolderofficeroffered.

Colin knew this was all standard domestic violence protocol and he resented them

usingitonhim.Hewasnottheretoharmthewomanheloved.

“Give us a few more minutes, Officers,” Regan said with a sticky sweet tone to her

voice.

Theofficerssteppedbackontotheporchsoshecouldshutthedoorwiththemonone

sideandsheandColinontheother.“Seriously,”shesaid,stiflingagiggle.

Colinknewhehadonlyafewminutesbeforeofficersknockedonthedooragain,so

he scurried up the stairs, grabbed his shirt, jacket, and whatever else he’d brought, and
reluctantlygotdressed.

“I don’t want to leave you, but if I don’t those two guys down there will make me

regretit.”Heplacedaquickkissonherlipsandrandownstairs.

Shestayedwhereshewasinherroom,dazedandfrustratedwiththewaythingswere

going. She heard Colin say as he left, “You guys really know how to mess up a guy’s
night.”

Theofficerreplied,“Ithoughtyoutwoweredivorced.”

Regan hurried downstairs and relocked and bolted the door, then trudged back

upstairs,herfeetfeelingincrediblyheavy.TherehadtobeawaytoclearColin’sname.It
had to be done. She needed that man back in her life and not just for quickies, but for
everything.Shescootedunderthecoversandfellasleep,dreamingofherhusband.

~~~

“I’ve got mediation in an hour with the family of this guy,” Colin told the group of

womengatheredaroundhiminthedispatchofficewhenRegangottoworkafewweeks
after he’d been kicked out of her house. “You know, the dead guy. The one they can’t
find.”Thewomenallbrokeintobrittlelaughter.“AnywaydidItellyouthebestpartin
thischarade?”HeglancedoveratRegan.

She’dtakenaseatatherconsoleandturnedonthecomputer,butshelookedoverin

timetocatchhiseye.

“Herbrotherisoneofthelawyersfortheplaintiff.”Hepointedinherdirection.“Can

youbelievethatshit?”

She felt the blood in her veins run cold. She hadn’t heard that level of contempt in

Colin’svoicein,well,ever.Heactuallysoundedlikehewasdisgustedwithher.

Swivelingaroundinherchair,sheopenedhermouthtosaysomethingtohim,butat

the last second she thought better of it and closed her mouth and swung her legs back
underherdesk.Sheshuthereyesandtookadeepbreath.HavingBrianontheopposite
sideoftheaislefromColinwasabadideaandawkward,atbest.Sheknewthisaswellas
Colindid.

“Shedoesn’tevenseemtocare,”headded.

Thewomengapedbetweenthetwoofthem.Regangavehimadirtylook,hopingit

wouldshuthimup.Howcouldhebesosweetandpassionatewithheronedayandafew
dayslaterbeacompleteass?

“What’swrong,Regan?Problem?”

“Notwithyou,jerk.”

Itwashisturntolookunhappy.Shesuppressedasmile.Twocouldplayatthegame

he’dstarted.“Iwaswonderingwhatyouwouldlooklikecryingwhenmybrotherbrings
youdown.”

Hisfaceturnedfromunhappytomurderous.Pushingthewomenaside,heapproached

her, leaned into her personal space, his hand on her shoulder burning through her thin
shirt,andwhispered,“You’dbetterbejoking,becauseI’minnocentandtheonlywayyour
brotherwillwinisifhellfreezesover.”

“You’retakingthisactabittoofar.Knockitoff,”shesaid.

Hestraightened,and,turningtohisaudience,bowed.“Ladies,it’sbeenapleasure,but

thingshavegonesour,soIwilltakemyleaveandgomeetwiththemediator.Blech.”

Reganrolledhereyes.Hewaslayingitonthick.Heturnedbacktoher.

“I’llcatchyouractincourt.”

Shegrinnedathim.“You’reon.”

Regan swiveled in her chair, trying to get to work after thoughts of Colin’s words

swirled in her brain. Had he said those things for the act or because there was truth in
them?Shehopeditwasfortheperformance.Hiswordsstungdeep.Shewasn’trootingfor
her brother any more than Colin was interested in dating Kim. She only hoped he knew
that.

As soon as Colin left, Regan found herself infested with nosy women. “Can you

believehowobnoxioushewas?”

“You poor thing,” Sheila said, grasping Regan’s shoulder right where Colin had

touchedheronlysecondsbefore.

“I’msosorryyouhadtoseehim,”anotherwomansaid.

“Don’tworryaboutit,ladies.I’mgettingusedtoseeinghimaroundthestationwith

women drooling all over him.” Using the word “ladies” was an insult in Regan’s mind.
Theywereweakandsimperingpettygirls.Withherwell-placedbarb,thewomenlostall
pretensesofsympathyandscurriedbacktotheircubicles,exactlyassheintended.

Petty,butReganwasproudofherself.Itwaspatheticthatherco-workers,thepeople

who were supposed to be loyal to her were caught fondling Colin. At least she knew
whereshestoodwiththem.

Verylow.

Chapter7

Laterthatafternoon,Colinmetwithhislawyerinthelobbyofthestationbeforegoing

overtothemediator’sofficetodothecourt-mandatedmediation.He’dalmostratherhave
arootcanalthenmeetwithpeoplewhowereonlyoutformoneyanddidn’tgivearat’s-
assaboutruiningaman’scareerandlivelihood.

“Mr. Petrowinski,” Colin greeted the middle-aged man with a round belly, derived

from hours sitting at his desk Colin suspected. Colin extended his hand, which
Petrowinskitookandshookvigorously.

“DoIreallyhavetobeatthismediation?”

“Youreallydo,OfficerRourke.”Heranahandoverhisthin,grayinghair.“Thiscase

could cost you or the city five million dollars. If there is a way to come to a settlement
withoutgoingtotrial,weneedtoarrangethat.”

“Ihatetoarguewithyou,sinceyouaretheexpert,butIdidn’tthrowtheirprecious

son off the bridge. We shouldn’t settle anything. Giving them money is like offering an
addictdrugs.”

Petrowinskifoldedhishandsoverhisbelly.“Thechiefistheonewhowantedtosettle

thiswithaslittlefanfareaspossible.Inhismind,atrialwouldmakemattersworse.”

The chief is a boob, Colin thought to himself, but was intelligent enough not to

expressthefeelingoutloudinfrontofalawyer.“I’llgo,butI’mnotgoingdownwithout
afight,evenifitmeansgoingagainstthechief.”

Thetinyofficetheywereusingsmelledmustyandfeltclaustrophobic.Therewasonly

enoughroomfortheconferencetableandeightchairs.Therewasahalf-sizedtableinthe
cornerforapitcherofwaterandeightglasses.

Theplaintiffswerealreadyintheroom,smiling,whenColinandhislawyerentered

theroom.Colinglanced.Thereweretwowindows,bigenoughforjumpingoutifallwas
lost during the mediation. The wall opposite the windows was hospital white, with no
pictures,maps,ordiplomas.Nothing.

“Cheery,” Colin hissed, sitting in a chair across from a man who looked like he’d

forgotten to shave for the last decade. His beady-eyes and hawk-like nose added to his
sinisterappearance.Colinobservedawomanandmansittingintheotherchairs.Onewas
Brian, Regan’s brother. They’d met a few times and, of course, at the wedding. Colin
noddedathim.

Thewomanwaslarger,withstraight,dirty-blondehairandclothesthatlookedolder

thanColinwas.Themediatorwastheonlyonewholookedhappytobethere.Heworea
navysuitandaplacatinggrin.Colinonlyhopedthistorturewouldendsoon.

Thewholethingtooktwentyminutes.Colinsaidthatnoeffingwaywasheadmitting

he was at fault and giving them three million, no, two million. Okay, how about one
million?Itwaslikethebargainbasementofnegotiating.Theyweretotallyinthisforthe
money. Colin couldn’t even tell if they actually knew the man they were supposedly
related to. Ramirez was a scumbag in the first degree, though these people, including
Regan’sbrother,wantedtomemorializehimandputhimuponapedestal.You’dthinkthe
manwasasaint.Themediatortriedtokeepeverythingpleasantandeveryoneagreeable,
butthathadfailedmiserably.

~~~

BrianhadinvitedhimselfoverandRegangaveinagain.Thistimeshewasinterested

in what he had to say. They sat in her dark living room with a computer on the coffee
table. She watched the video of Colin throwing Ramirez off the bridge. When Brian
showedupwiththeincriminatingvideohehad,shecouldn’twaittogethiminthehouse.

On the third viewing, she got an odd feeling that something wasn’t quite authentic

aboutthevideo.Therewassomethingfunnyabouttheofficer.Shenevergotaclearview
ofhisfaceandhedidn’twalklikeColin.

She said nothing to Brian, but watched the grainy video, her eyes squinted, for a

fourth time. The picture quality wasn’t good. She thought that with today’s technology,
surveillancevideoswerebetterthanthis.

“Thissucks.Howareyougoingtoputtogetheracasewiththis?Didyoufindfibers,

hair, or a body? Perhaps you could build a case, but this video alone doesn’t create a
reasonabledoubt.”

“Comeon,Reg.Itshowsyourhusband,that’syourex-husband,tossingaguyoverthe

railing.Notaneasyfeat.IthinkIcanconvincetherestofmyteamandthejurythathe’sa
monster.Strong,vengeful,withaGodcomplex.”

Shetastedbitternessinhermouth.ColinwasnotamonsterwithaGodcomplex.He

wasouttohelpthelittleguy.Hemadesurethatallthekittenswerehomeatnightand—
Okay,soshewasexaggerating,buthewasn’tabadguy.

“DidImentionthatsomeone’sbeenfollowingme?”

“Really?”Brianraisedhiseyebrows.

Shenodded.“He’sacreepyguy.IthinkyourclientshiredhimtogettoColinthrough

me.Youcantellthemit’snotgoingtowork.”

“I’llcheckwiththem,butI’msureyou’reimaginingthings.Idoubttheywouldpay

goodmoneytohavesomeonefollowyou.”

Shecrossedherarms.“Wheredidyougetthisvideo?”

“Itwastakenfromthesecuritycamerasmountedonthebridge.”

“Didanyoneelsehaveaccesstoit?”

“Stay out of it, Regan. There’s no reason for you to worry about it.” His voice was

harsh, meant to stop her from asking anymore questions. He closed the screen on the

laptop,stoppingthevideofromitsmockingloop.

Shesighed.“Iknow,butIcan’thelpworryingaboutsomeoneIwasmarriedto.”

Brianreachedoverandtuckedastrandofherhairbehindherear.“Iknowyouwerein

lovewithhim,butforyourowngood,youneedtostayawayfromhim.I’vespokentoa
security firm about placing someone outside your house to keep that maniac away from
you.”

Herheartratespedup.“Youmeanthemanfollowingme?”

Heshookhishead.“No.ImeanColin.Hehasahistoryofexcessiveforce.”

“He’s a police officer. That happens with his job. He has never hurt me.” And, will

neverhurtme.ThefactthatBrianwastryingtomakeherworried,didn’tendearhimto
her.

“I’mnottakinganychanceswithyoursafety.”

“I’m not concerned with my safety, once you talk to your clients about the jerk

followingme,”shetoldhimforcefully.

However,whenshearrivedhomefromworkthenextevening,acarmarkedwithPort

CitySecuritysatinherdriveway.Asshedrovein,amangotoutofthecarinhispressed
navyuniform.“Evening,Ma’am.”

Reganslidoutofhercar,heavingasighoffrustration.“Hi.”

“I’mDirk.Brianhiredmetokeepaneyeonyou.”Hegaveabig,juvenilesmile.

She rolled her eyes. What was he, twelve? This was the man who was supposed to

protectherfrommobstersandherderangedex-husband?

“Dirk?”sheasked,notsureifthatwasreallyhisname.Didprivatesecurityfirmshave

pseudonyms?

“It’safamilyname.”

Shegavehimtheonce-overfromheadtotoe.Hewasaboutfive-nine,darkhair,and

dark eyes. The light was too poor to figure out the exact color. Scrawny only began to
describehim.Buthisfeetwerehuge,biggerthananyshe’dseenbefore.Shewassurethat
inafootchasehe’dprobablytripoverhisownfeetandwinduponhisface.

“Truthbetold,I’mnotsureIneedyoutobehere.IfBrian’spayingyou,thenstay,but

seriously, I’m not in danger.” Even as she said it, she thought about the stalker. The
security guy would probably pass out if she mentioned the mob. Not that Port City had
mobs, but they had gangs of immigrants who stuck together and watched each other’s
backs.Whowasgoingtowatchherback?Dirk?Notlikely.

“The man who hired me said you could be in grave danger. That sounds serious to

me.”

“Good luck,” she said, smiling and heading for the door. What was she going to do

withaDirkfollowingherontopoftheoriginalstalker?Andwhenwasshegoingtofind

timetotalktoColin?

Once she was locked inside the house, she grabbed her cell and dialed Colin. He

neededtoknowabouthernewadditionsohewasn’tsurprisedifhehappenedtostopby,
whichshewantedhimtodooften.

“It’s not a good idea for you to call me on your phone.” Colin answered the phone

briskly,businesslike.

“Hellotoyou,too,”Regansaid.

“I’m serious. The plaintiff’s council will probably check my phone records, mail,

anything.Theyaregoingtobegraspingatstraws.”

“Mediationwentwell,huh?”

“Isawyourbrother.”

“Metoo.Isawthevideo.”Shelickedherlipsthatweresuddenlydry.“It’snotyou.I

couldtellbythewaytheguywalked.”

“Iknewitwasn’tme’causeIdidn’tdoit.”

“Besides that.” Regan smiled into the phone and sunk into the couch. She let the

darknessenvelopher,makingColin’svoicedeeperandmoreintimate.

“Yourbrotherdidn’thaveathingtosay.Hewasoutclassedbyhisclients,andthat’s

sayingsomething.You’regoingtostayawayduringthetrial,right?”

Shepaused.

“ReganRourke.”

When he used her full name, in that tone, it tickled her funny bone so she couldn’t

helpthegrinthatspreadacrossherface.Heneverusedhernameseriously.

“I’m not kidding. I don’t want you there. There is no way I want those con-artist,

scumbagstoseeyou.”

“I’msafe,”shesaidflatly,grabbingapillow,huggingittoherchest.

“Noyou’renot.NotuntilI’mbacktherewithyou.”

Shecouldhearthepassioninhisvoice.Whenthey’dbeendating,theyspentalotof

time on the phone, before they’d moved in together. She could tell when he was sad,
angry,andexcitedfromthetoneofhisvoice.Itdidn’tmatterthatshespentmostofher
days working the phone lines. She loved listening to him talk about his work, his
childhood,college,anything.Shesighed.

“Brianhiredarent-a-coptowatchoverme.”

There was silence on the other end of the line. She wasn’t sure he was still there.

“Colin?Hewantsmetobesafe,justlikeyoudo.Colin?”

Moresilence.Shewasabouttohangupwhenhegrunted.“That’sridiculous.Idon’t

evenknowwhattosay.”

“Hewantsyoutostayawayfromme.ThatwasoneofhisreasonsforparkingDirk

hereatthehouse.”

Sheheardhimsigh.

“Iloveyou,”shesaid,tryingtochangethesubject.

“You’rebrother’sajerk.I’dliketobeathimtoapulp.”

Justhearingthewordssentashiverthroughher.Shedidn’tlikehearinghimtalklike

that. She’d never been afraid of her husband, but when he spoke about hurting another
person, concern for him skittered across her chest. She couldn’t respond to him. Didn’t
havethewordstotellhimhowshefeltwhenhesaidthingslikethat.Despitethefactthat
Colindidn’tlikeBrian,Brianwasfamily.Heronlyfamily.SheneededBrian,too.

“I’vegottogo,Colin,”shesaidwithsomeregret.Shewantedtostayonthephoneto

listentohim,butshecouldn’tcontrolthefearinhervoice.

“Whencanwemeetagain?”heasked.

“Soon.”Shehungupthephonebeforehecouldquestionherfurther.

Sittinginthedark,holdingherpillow,shefeltatearslipdownhercheek.Shebrushed

itawayangrily.Shewasnotgoingtocry.Strongandable,thatwasher.Therehadtobea
waytoclearColinandrestoreherfaithinhim.Sheneededtorestoreherfaithinherself
forchoosingamanwhowasgoodandhonest.Thiswholecasewasmakingherthinkthat
perhapsshewasn’tagoodjudgeofcharacter.Morethananything,shewantedtobelieve
inherself.

That night, she spent hours tossing and turning. Knowing Dirk was in the driveway

didn’tgiveherpeaceofmind.Instead,sheworriedabouthimontopofbeingconcerned
aboutColinandherself.Throwingthecoversoff,shepaddedtothewindowandlooked
outtothedriveway.Dirkwassittinginthecarreadingabookwiththeoverheadlighton.
Didn’therealizehewasatargetandhewasgivingthebadguysacleanshot?Sheletthe
curtainfallbackwithagroan,thenclimbedbackintobed.

Colin caught up with her the next morning just as she was about to go into the

dispatchoffice.Withaquickmotion,hegrabbedherarmandpulledherintothebackof
thesupplycloset.Hedidn’tgiveherthechancetoscream.Instead,hecoveredhermouth
with his and kissed the fear from her. She knew those lips and was instantly aroused,
feeling them coaxed her desires to life. Considering where they were and what might
happeniftheywerecaught,herattractionheightened.

“I wanted to see you last night after we talked, but with your hound dog out front I

didn’triskcomingin.”

“Ifyou’dwantedtogetbyhim,I’msureyoucouldhave.”

“Didyouseehimsittingwiththelighton?Forreal?Ialmosttookapotshot,justto

wakehimup.”

She pulled away from him and blocked her space with her hands on his chest. Her

eyesadjustedtothedark,illuminatedbythespaceunderthedoor.Shesawhowrelaxedhe
was leaning against the wall. “You have to stop saying things like that. If you’re saying
these things with me, you might slip and say something in front of someone you
shouldn’t.”

“Whatareyoutalkingabout?”Hetriedtopullherbackintohim.

She could feel his arousal, but ignored it. Looking around, she concentrated on the

shelvesofboxesfilledwithformsandrequisitions,ticketpads,andvacationrequestforms
sheknewwerethere.

“Yousaidyouwantedtobeatmybrother.Nowyouwanttoshootmysecurityguard.

If someone didn’t know you, they’d think you have a violent streak, that you are
dangerous.”

“Regan?Youdon’tthinkthat,doyou?Youaren’tworriedI’ddosomethingtoyou?”

Shecouldheartheconcerninhisvoice,seetheintenselookhehadonhisfaceashe

stared her down. “Of course not,” she said, but unfortunately she wasn’t sure any more.
Damnallofthemforcreatingdoubtinhermind.

Chapter8

Regan inhaled the familiar scent, his scent, a combination of musk and sunshine.

Indecisiontoreathersoulandforthefirsttime,fearthattheywouldn’tbeabletorecover
fromthisseparationstolethroughherbody.

“WhencanIseeyouagain?”heasked.

“Idon’tknow.Weneedtobecarefulnottogetcaught.”

“Gettingcaughtisnotgoingtohappen.Yousaidyousawthevideo.Doyouhaveany

leadsonwhosetmeup?”

Sheshookherhead.

“If I come up with a list of officers who I think might not like me, would that help

you?”

A sick feeling welled in her stomach. It was all too much pressure. How was she

goingtoclearhimofthecharges?Shewishedhecoulddosomeofthedirtywork.“Isaid
I’dhelpyou,butIhavetobecarefulwhatIsearchfor.Ican’taffordtolosemyjob,”she
said.Shehadtolookoutforherself,nowthatshehadnooneelsetosupporther.

“I know.” He leaned in and planted a kiss on her forehead. “I’ll get you the list

anyway.Didyougetathrowawaycellphonesowecancalleachotherwithoutitbeing
traced?”

Sheshookherheadagain.“Ihaven’thadtime.Look,Colin,I’vegottogo.”Glancing

downatherwatch,whichshecouldn’tseeinthedarkanyway,shepushedthedooropen
andwentintodispatch.

“You’relate,”Sheilascolded.

“I was here. I just needed to meet with someone as a follow up for a call I took

yesterday.”

“Fine, but try to be on time from now on. When you’re late, the people you’re

replacinggetoutofworklate.Youwouldn’tlikethat,wouldyou?”

“No,Sheila.Ihearyou.”Morethanshewantedto.Dispatchwasoneofthosejobsshe

enjoyed doing, then she enjoyed going home at the end of the day. She cared about the
officersonthestreetsandherjobmattered,butshedidn’twanttotakeherworkhome.If
she broadcasted the wrong address over the radio, someone could get hurt, civilian or
officer. If she forgot the procedure for a choking victim, then someone could die before
the ambulance arrived on the scene. There was enough pressure. She didn’t need guilt
fromhersupervisor,messingupherconscience,whichwasalreadycompromisedwithher
liestocoverforColin.

~~~

Colinstayedintheclosetforafewmoreminutes.Tryingtogethisheadonstraight

wasprovingtobeachallenge.Hedesperatelymissedher.He’dalwayspromisedthathe’d
haveherback,butnowshehadtohavehis.Shehadaccesstothedepartmentmainframe
andcouldattempttofindoutinformationaboutthevideo—thingslikewhopickeditup
fromthebridgeoffice,wherewasthecontrollerwhooperatedthedrawbridgefortankers
andsailboats,andwhohadaccesstothevideointransit.

He’dattempttofindtheinformationhimself,butatworkhewasbeingwatched.They

monitored his computer use, who he emailed, which websites he visited, and who he
spoke with. The Sergeant in Internal Affairs told him as much when he met with him a
fewweeksago.

He’d tried to repair his relationship with Jack, but his best friend was pushing him

away. Jack hadn’t asked him to move out again, but it was only a matter of time, Colin
figured.PunchingJackhadn’tbeenoneofthebrightestthingshe’deverdone.Reganwas
right.Anythinghesaidordidcouldbeusedagainsthim.Jackcouldtestifythatinafitof
rageColinhaddeckedhim.Ohcrap.

Peekingoutoftheclosetandseeingnoone,Colinsteppedoutofthedarkandintothe

well-lithallway.Heglancedintothedispatchoffice,untilheheardtheelevatording,then
hehurriedawayfromthatendofthehall.

“OfficerRourke.”Herecognizedthefemaleofficer’svoice.

“Hi.”

“It’sRebecca.”Shesmiledandwaitedforhimtojoinheratherendofthehallway.

“Didyounoticethatweneverlearnoneanother’sfirstnames?”Sheshookherhead,her
blondeponytailtwistingfromsidetoside.

“No,wedon’t,”heagreed.“I’mColin.”

Sheturnedtofacehim,obviouslyinnohurrytogetwhereshewasgoing.“I’veonly

beenhereafewmonths,andI’mstilltryingtofigureoutwhereeverythingis.”

Hesmiled.“InthestationorinPortCity?”

“Both.”Shegrinnedbackathim.Prettywasn’thowhewoulddescribeher.Inherown

way she was good looking, though the bullet-proof vest probably didn’t help her figure,
nordidthedutybelt.Hefoundhimselfcheckingitout,seeingwhatshefoundimportant
enoughtocarryonhersmallbelt:hersidearm,handcuffs,pepperspray,gloves,anextra
magazine,andacollapsiblebaton.

Thenextthingtocomeoutofhismouthhappenedbeforehecouldstophimself.“If

you’dlike,Icouldtakeyouonatourofthecity.I’vebeenworkinghereawhileandknow
mywayaroundprettywell.”

“Thatwouldbegreat.”Shegavehimamega-wattsmile.

“How about if I pick you up at six tonight? If you’re not busy, I mean.” Was he

nervous? He hadn’t thought about it, but being seen with someone socially would help
cementthedivorcecharade.Hedidn’tmindtakingRebeccaonatourofthetown,butshe

wasn’tRegan,andhisheartrecognizedthatmorethananythingelseinhisbody.

“Sure. I don’t have anything to do. Ever.” She smiled at him again. “Dinner will be

mytreat,”sheadded.

“You’reon.Onetourguidecomingup.”Hereachedouthishandtoshakeonit.

TheelevatordoorsslidopenagainandJacksteppedout.“Colin.”

“What’sup?”Colinasked,innocently.Hewasdoingnothingwrongandhehatedthat

Jacklookedathimlikehewasaphilanderingwhore.

“I was about to ask you the same thing,” Jack asked, eyeing Colin’s and Rebecca’s

handsstillclaspedtogether.

Colin released her hand and stepped back. “Rebecca’s new in town and wanted to

haveatourofthecity.ItoldherIcoulddothatforher.”

Jacknarrowedhiseyes.“Soit’slikeadate.”

“Yes,”Rebeccasaid.

“No,”Colinsaidatthesametime.

Jacksmiled.“Soundslikesomeonehashissignalscrossed.”

“Pissoff,”ColintoldJack.Then,turningtoRebecca,hesaid,“Seeyoutonight.”He

climbedintotheelevatorandprayedforthedoorstoclosequickly.

His luck wasn’t good these days, and Sheila from dispatch waddled down the hall

towardtheelevators.“Holdthedoors!”shehollered.

Rollinghiseyes,hepushedtheholdbutton.HehadnevercaredforSheila.Shewasa

first-classbusybody,whowashappyonlyattheexpenseofothers’misery.

“WasthatRebeccaHolmes?”Sheilaasked,outofbreath.

Thedepartmenthadprogramstohelpitsemployeesgetintoshape,notthathe’dsay

anythingtoher.“Itwas.”

“She hasn’t been here that long. You should stay away from her. We wouldn’t want

yourbadluckandhabitsrubbingoffonher.”

Colindroppedhischintostareatthewoman.Hecouldn’tbelieveshehadtheaudacity

tosaythattohisface.“Excuseme?”

“Youknowthisincidentisbringingyoudown.Firstyourwifedivorcedyouandnow

you’reembroiledinthistrial.Nastybusiness.”

He had no idea what the polite way to tell her to fuck off was. He felt his blood

pressurerise.Suddenly,thespaceintheelevatorseemedtootinyforbothofthem.Hehit
thesecond-floorbuttonandtheelevatorshudderedtoastop.Assoonasthedoorsopened,
hewasoutoftherewithoutanotherwordtoSheila.WasthisthetypeofstuffRegandealt
with at work? If Sheila was lecturing her the way she spoke to him, he felt bad for his
formerwife.

Tomorrowwasjuryselectionfortheciviltrial.Bothlawyerswouldquestionpotential

jurorswhowouldhearthecaseandmakeadecision.Colingottobethere,too.Theleast
he could do was keep people he’d arrested off the jury. For tonight, he was going to be
ColinRourke,tour-guide-extraordinaire.Ithadbeensolongsincehe’dlookedatanother
woman that he wasn’t even sure how he was supposed to act with her. He was slightly
concernedthatshehadmoreinmindthanjustatourofthecityfromhim,buthebrushed
offthefeeling.Havingagoodtimewastoponhislistfortheevening.Ithadbeentoolong
sincehe’dfelthecouldhangoutandrelax.

Hetookthestairstothefirstfloorandassumedhispostatthefrontdeskforhiseight

hours.Hisfrontdeskmatewasoutsick,sohewasflyingsolo,whichalsomeanthehadto
answerphonesaswellaspushthelittlebuttontoletpeoplein.

Havingsomethingtolookforwardtomadehisdaybrighterthanusual.Heanswered

thephonewithoutgrowlingatanyoneandtookthreecitizencomplaints.Hewasgetting
used to working the desk, although he hoped he wasn’t getting soft. Fighting crime was
wherehispassionwas.Outonthestreetswiththedangerouscriminalswaswherethereal
actiontookplace,notherewherepeoplecalledtocomplain.

He wondered how Regan could stand to take phone calls all day. Granted, some of

thosewereexcitingandshewasabletohelpwithrealpolicework,buttalkingtopeople
whowereonlywastingtimebycalling911toreportacatinatreehadtobefrustrating.
How did she not tell them to call the fire department’s non-emergency number for silly
thingslikeanimalsclimbingthings?

Colinleanedbackinhischair,handsclaspedtogetherbehindhishead.Hewasn’tan

intolerantperson,usually.Mosttimeshewaspatientwiththecommunity,butthislawsuit
wasmakinghimshort-temperedandjudgmental.

When his replacement arrived right on time, Colin smiled—actually gave a toothy

grin—attheguybeforegrabbinghisgearbagandheadingforthelockerroomtochange.
HethoughtaboutheadinghomefirsttoshowerbeforemeetingRebecca.He’dlookedup
heraddresswhilehewasworking.Itwasinaneighborhoodheknewwell.Itwaswhere
heandReganhadlivedbeforetheygotmarriedandboughtthehouseRegannowlivedin
alone.

He checked out his appearance in the mirror. His hair was okay. He didn’t have a

specificstyle,moremessedandpushedoffhisforehead.Heranhishandthroughit,then
checkedhispits.Hedecidedtoaddsomedeodorant,whichalsoactedascologne,before
puttingonthedressshirthekeptinhislockerforcaseswherehecouldn’tgethomebefore
adinnermeeting.

Beforethis,thedateshadalwaysbeenwithReganandhefeltguiltythatthistimehe

wasgoingoutwithanotherwoman,regardlessofthereason.Hebuttoneduphisshirtand
checkedhisflyonthepantshe’dslippedon.Itwasn’tgoingtogetanybetter,besides,he
didn’twantRebeccatothinkhe’dgonetoanytroubleforher.Atleasthewouldn’thaveto
runintoSheila.Hershiftwasoveranhourago,aswasRegan’s.

He wasn’t going to think about Regan anymore tonight, he told himself. Rebecca

deservedhisfullattentionwhilehewasshowingheraround.Findinghiscarparkedinthe
parking garage, he nodded to the officers he passed coming and going during the shift
change.

“Hey,Rourke,Ihearyou’regoingoutwithHolmestonight,”NeilWaters,anofficer

who’dbeeninColin’sacademyclass,said.

“Isnothingsacredaroundhere?”Colinasked.

“You’rebignewsthesedays.Everyfartyoumakeisnews.”Neilclappedhimonthe

back.“Goodluckwithher.Ihearshe’satougheggtocrack.”

“I’mjustshowingheraroundthecity.She’snew,saidsheneededsomepointers.”

Theyheadedtowardthegarage.“Dude,openyoureyes.Therearemapsofthiscityall

over the place. Everyone has GPS, and she has a computer in her car. She wants you,
man.”

He’dhopedshewasinterestedinatourofthecity,notatourofColinRourke.When

he’dspokenwithher,shehadn’tseemedsexuallyinterestedinhim,buthe’dwatchfrom
nowon.“Thanksfortheheads-up.”

“Noprob.Letmeknowhowitgoes.”

Colinflexedhisbicepstoreleasesomepent-uptension.Whatthehellwashedoing?

Hehadnointerestintakingonsomewomanwhowashotforhim.Maybehe’dcalland
cancel. Checking his watch, he realized that he only had ten minutes left before he was
supposedtopickherup.Toolate.

Besides,hedidn’twanttocancel.Heneededafunnightout,andsincehecouldn’tbe

seenwithRegan,Rebeccawouldhavetodo.

HeeasedthecaruptothecurbinfrontofRebecca’shouse.Hisheartwasthumping

abnormallyfastforhim.Therewasasickfeelinginhisstomach,likehewascheating.He
reminded himself, this wasn’t infidelity. It was a friend helping out another friend. He
wouldspendallnightjustifyingitifhehadto.

Sheopenedthedoorjustasheraisedhisfisttoknock.“Hi.”Shegrinned.

He did a double take. She wasn’t the same woman he’d seen in the hallway at the

station.Underthevestandthehat,shewasallfemale.Shehadonalow-cut,short-sleeved
shirtinatealcolorandtightjeans.Herblackhigh-heeledbootscompletedtheoutfitfor
him.“Wow!”

“Doyouwanttocomeinorjustgetgoing?”sheasked,pushingthedooralltheway

open.

“Thisyourplace?Allofit?”

She gestured inside and he went. The old Victorian house had been split into two

apartments,oneupstairsandonedown.

“Ihaven’townedtheplacelong.Theupstairsapartmentlookssimilar,butisdecorated

much more manly, since the man who lives up there came with the place. I guess he’s
livedherefortenyearsormore.I’veonlyseenhimafewtimessinceImovedin.”

“It’snice.Thanksforthetour.YoureadytoseePortCity?”

“Whatever you want, Officer Rourke.” She gave a little salute, a saucy smile, then

pickedupherpurseandsaunteredoutthedoor.

Hefollowed,watchingherhipswithfascination,surprisedthatsomerandyguyatthe

departmenthadn’ttriedtohookupwithher.Hefoundithardtofathomthatshewashard
upfordatesortourguides.MaybewhatNeilhadsaidwastrue.

Openingthedoorforher,hecaughtawhiffofherlightperfume.Inhisbook,perfume

suggested she was trying to impress or entice him. He smiled down at her when she
lookedback,nosensebeingrude.Heshutthedoorandshookhisheadonceshewasagain
facingthestreet.Hewasheadingfortroublewiththisofficer.

Hittingthegas,heburnedrubberastheyheadedintothebigcity.

~~~

Regan kicked the door to her house open while grasping her groceries in her arms.

Whenthephonestartedringing,shewantedtochuckeverythingandhideinhercloset.It
hadbeenaroughday.Mostofthedepartmenthadheardthatnowshewasdivorcedand
that Colin was single. While only three women asked if she would be okay with them
dating Colin, she knew some were going to go after him anyway. This pissed her off.
She’dcomeclosetostandingupinthehusheddispatchofficeandtellingthewholestaff
tocuttheshitandstopgoingafterColin.Hewasn’ttheonlysingleofficeratthepolice
department. Hit on someone else. But, she didn’t. Having grown up with her proper
parents and then in the foster system, she learned that keeping her mouth closed would
usuallygetherfurtherthantellingpeoplewhatsheactuallythoughtofthem.

The phone continued to ring. Why wasn’t the answering machine picking up? She

droppedthegroceriesonthecounterthengrabbedthephonefromitscharger.

“Hello?”sheaskedimpatiently.

“Regan?Everythingokay?”

Jack.“Yeah.Fine.What’sup?”

“Youdon’tsoundhappy.Areyousureyou’reokay?”

Shewasn’tupforplayingthisgame.“Youcalledmeforsomething?”

Hepaused,probablytojudgeifheshouldallowhertochangethesubject.

Shelethimthinkaboutit.

“Icalledtoseeifyouwantedtododinnertonight.”

Itwasherturntopause.Shelookedatherbagsofgroceriesandthecoldstove,clean

counter,andemptysink.Messingthatup,thencleaningitagain,didn’tsoundlikemuch
fun,sosheagreed.“Doyouhaveaplaceinmind?”

“There’sthisnewplaceonCommercialAve.Ithoughtitmightbeworthatry.Ican

pickyouupinhalf-an-hour,ifthatgivesyouenoughtime.”

She agreed to the thirty minutes. In that time she put the food away, changed into

somethingabitdressier,thenputonmakeupanddidherhair,notthatittooklongtodo
that.Shebrushedhershoulder-lengthbrownhairandaddedmoussetoitforsomevolume.
Therewas no wayshe wanted Jackto think she wastrying hard toplease him, but then
again,shedidn’twanttopassupanopportunitytogetoutofherhouse,withsupervision,
incaseherstalkershowedup.

Chapter9

Promptasusual,Jackrangthedoorbellatexactlysix-thirty.Shethrewopenthedoor.

“Comein,IjustneedtofinishsomethingIforgotabout,”shesaid,runningbackintoher
office.

Shehadnothingtodoonhercomputer,butaminutetocomposeherselfwasinorder.

Jacklookedgood.Toogood.Toostylish.

He was wearing jeans and a navy polo shirt with a thin gray stripe across the chest,

accentuatinghisbroadmuscularchest.Shetookanotherbreathofscarceairbeforegoing
backtohim.Leavinghiminthelivingroomwasn’tsomethingshewouldnormallydo,but
itwasn’tlikeJackhadn’tlivedwiththemforsixmonths.

“Sorry about that,” she said. “You look different, more suave.” Growling internally,

shewantedtokickherselffortellinghimthat.Itmighthavebeensociallyacceptable,but
shedidn’twanthimtothinkshe’dnoticed.

“Thanks.You’rehottonight.Ilikethehair.It’sdifferentthantheponytailyouusually

wear.”

Shesmiledathim,agenuinesmilethatfelttoobig,toohappy.“I’llsavetheponytail

forwhenIknowyoubetter.”

He took a step closer to her so he was only a foot from her. “You know me well

enoughtobeyourself.That’sallIwant,”hesaid,leaninginforakiss.

Itwascoming,butshedidn’tmove,couldn’t.Shewantedtofeeltheconnectionwith

someone.Apersonwhowasn’tembroiledintoomuchdrama.But,atthelastsecond,she
turned her head. The kiss landed on her cheek. She felt Jack stiffen and pull away. She
gavehimaquicksmile.

“Let’sgo,”hesaid,puttinghisarmaroundhershouldersandleadinghertothedoor.

Sherememberedtograbherpurseandlockthedoorbeforetheyleft.Jackdrovewith

confidence,takingtheroadsabittoofast.Shewatchedhimwithasidewaysglance.With
thewindowsclosedagainstthechillynightair,shewasenvelopedinhisspicyscent,so
differentfromColin’smuskiness.

He turned a corner and an oncoming car swung into their lane. “Holy shit,” he

exclaimed, swerving the car into the soft shoulder. He jammed on the brakes before
turning to catch a description of the car. Cop types were all the same. Descriptions and
platenumbers.“ThatA-holealmosthitus.Hewasprobablydrunk.Ididn’tgettheplate
numberbecausehewasgoingtoofastaroundthatcorner.Damn.”

“We’reokay,”Regansaid,herheartstillpoundinginherchest.Shetoldherselfitwas

arandomactofcarelessdriving,nothingmore.Mentioninganythingaboutthecaseorthe
guyfollowinghertoJackwasn’tnecessary,sheconcluded.Foranight,shedidn’twantto

thinkaboutanyofthat.Jackwasright.Itwasprobablysomedrunkguyonhiswayhome.

“Yousureyou’reokay?Thatwastoocloseforcomfort.”

Regan gave a light chuckle. “I’m great. Let’s forget about it.” She added forced

brightnessintohervoice.“Really.I’mstarving,let’seat.”

Hesmiledbackather.“Yougotit.”

Reganwasenjoyingherdinner.Jackwaseasytogetalongwithandtheyhadabunch

of things in common, including the PD. They talked about people from work, careful to
avoiddiscussingthepersontheyhadmostincommon.

When dessert came, they both looked from one another to the waitress, a teenager,

who was probably home from college. “We didn’t order dessert,” they said at the same
time,thenlaughed.

“Iknow,”shesaid,soundingbored.“Thatcoupleovertheresentitovertoyou.”

Regangotasickfeelinginherstomachevenbeforesheturnedaround.Jackwaved,

buthissmiledidn’treachhiseyes.Shestudiedhisface.

Hegaveaslightnod.“Youcanlook,”hesaid.“It’shim.”

Turningaroundlikeshewasinslowmotion,shefinallymadeeyecontactwithColin.

Sheflashedhimasmile.Washefollowinghernow?Thenshesawtheblondebimbohe
waswith.Lookingcloser,sherecognizedRebeccaHolmesfromthedepartment.Shehad
gottenhertalonsintoRegan’sman.

Jackclearedhisthroatbehindher.“Ididn’tknowtheywerecominghere,”hesaid,his

handraisedinascoutsalute.

“How?Who?What?”

“Ihadanideathattheyweregoingtobeouttonight,butIdidn’tthinkhe’dbringher

here.Youknow,he’smoreofabarguy.Pubfoodishighonhislistofnecessities.”

“Didyouknowtheyweregoingonadate?”sheasked,hurt.Notsureifshewasupset

atJackfornottellingherorColinforgoingoutwiththefirstwhorewholookedtwiceat
him.Rebeccawasyoung,probablyjustoutofhighschool.Colinwaspushingthirty.

“Isawthemtalkingaboutitinthehallwaytoday.Iguessitwassupposedtobesome

casualthing,butthatdoesn’tlookcasualtome.”

Regantookadeepsteadyingbreath.“Ithinkweshouldgetoutofhere.Idon’tcare

abouthisdessert.”

Jackputcashonthetableandtookherhandastheylefttherestaurant.Regancouldn’t

look back at Colin. She concentrated on making it to the door with Jack’s comforting
presencenexttoher.

“Regan,”Colinsaid,grabbinghersleeve.

“Letgoofmyarm,”shegrittedfrombetweenclenchedteeth,notlookingupathim.

JackputahandonColin’schest.“Notnow,man.”

“This has nothing to do with you, buddy,” Colin said, adding sarcasm to the final

word.

Regantriedtokeepmovingawayfromthem,butColinstillhadaholdonher.

“It’snothowitlooks,”hesaid.

Shespunonhim,nosetonose.“Thisisexactlywhatitlookslike,”shesaid.“Jackand

Iareonadateandyouareruiningit.So,runbacktoyourlittlehootchieandenjoyyour
night,Colin.”Thistimewhenshewalkedaway,Colin’shandfelltohisside.Shefelthis
eyes bore into her back, but she stood tall, her head up, back straight, and she forced
herselftonotlookback.

“Thatsucked,”Jacksaidwhentheywereoutofthebuilding.

“Yathink?”Regananswered,stormingdownthestreettowherehe’dparkedthecar.

She pulled her hair back into a ponytail and wrapped her holder she had in her pocket
aroundthethickhair.

“Aponytail?”

“Please,Jack.Ineedaminuteto…Idon’tknow,Ijustneedaminute.”Sheshookher

handsandstrodeasfastasshecouldtoexpendsomeofherexcessenergy.

Jackwasaniceguy,buthewasn’tColin.Hedidn’tgiveherthatall-consumingneed

to be with him. Jack was good company, like a comfy pair of slippers. She heaved one
finalsighandreturnedtoJack.

“Sorryaboutthat.Iwasn’treadytoseehimonadate.”

“Iunderstand.”Heclaspedherhandagainandtheywentbacktohiscar.

“Idon’twanttogetseriousaboutanyone.Youunderstandthat,right?”sheaskedinto

thedarknight.

“Ihearyou.I’vewaitedthislong,IguessIcanholdoutlonger.Patienceismymiddle

name.”Hesmiledatherandsqueezedherhandreassuringly.

“I’veseenthatwomanaround,butIdon’tknowmuchabouther.”

Jack sighed. “Rebecca Holmes. She’s a nice girl. Young, but cheery. He’ll have fun

withher.”

ThatwasthelastthingReganwantedtohearrightnow.Bileroseinherthroat.Colin

wasnotsupposedtohavefunwithanyoneelse.Andwhatkindoffunweretheytalking
about? She considered running back to explain to Colin that he wasn’t allowed to have
thatkindof“fun”,buthewouldn’thaveappreciatedthat.

“Don’tworryaboutit,Regan.”

“Right. Sure. I think I’d better get home,” she said as they arrived at his car, just in

casehedecidedtheyshouldhavesome“fun”too.

Hedrovetoherhousewithoutsayinganything.Itwasn’tuntilhewasparkedinher

drivewayandturnedtowardherthathespoke.“Ilikeyou,Regan,andIhopewhatIsaid
earlierdidn’tfreakyouout,butIampatientandwouldenjoyjustbeingfriendswhogo
out.Youknowyouneedafriendrightnow.I’mofferingmyservices.”

Reganreachedouttoplaceherhandonhisthigh.“Iappreciatethat.I’llkeepyouin

mind after I’ve interviewed all the candidates.” She let her fake composure slip and she
grinned.“You’vealwaysbeenagoodfriendtobothofus,Colinandme.Idon’twantto
comebetweenyoutwo,though.Areyousurehe’sokaywiththis?”

“You’reagrownup.Yougettomakeyourowndecisions.JustbecauseColinandIare

friends and co-workers doesn’t mean he gets to dictate to me. As long as you and I are
okaywithit,toobadforhim.”

Heleanedintokissher.Shewasgettinggoodspottingthesignsthathewasmoving

inforsomelipaction.Hiseyebrowsroseinquestionbeforeheclosedthedistancewithout
waitingforananswer.

Shetiltedherheadtothesidesothatwhenhislipsmether,hewasjusttotheleftof

her mouth. She pulled back, her hand reaching for the door handle. “Good night, Jack.
Thanksfordinner.”Shegotoutofthecarandheadedforthedoor.Someonecamearound
thesideofthehouse,scaringthebe-jeezusoutofher.Herscreampiercedthenightair.

Jackwasatherside,gundrawnbeforeshestoppedscreaming.

“Whothehellareyou?”Jackaskedinhisdemandingcopvoice.

“I’mDirk.Security,”headded,pointingtohisuniformandbadge.

Jackglancedather.

Shenodded.

He lowered his weapon, then turned back to her. “You didn’t tell me you hired

security.Hastherebeenanytrouble?”

Sheshookherhead.“MybrotherhiredDirktowatchoutforme.Ididn’tknowhewas

here.Whereisyourcar?”sheaskedDirk.

“Iparkeditdownthestreet,hopingthatsomeonemightcomebyiftheythoughtyou

werealone,thenIcouldgetthem.”

ReganrolledhereyesinJack’sdirection.

“Idon’tknowwhoyou’reprotectingReganfrom,butyoumightwanttoleavethereal

policeworktothepros.”

“Surething,”hesaid,hiseyesnotleavingJack’sgun.

“I’llbegoinginnow,”shesaidtothemen.

Shesmiledastheywatchedherunlockthehouseandgoinside.Theywerecutetobe

worried about her walking twenty feet into her own house. She flipped on the light and
sawaletterthathadbeenslippedunderherfrontdoor.Pickingitup,herheartthumped

andhermindstartedracing.

She tripped into the living room, fell on the couch, the letter clutched in her hands.

Wherehadthelettercomefrom?Andwhohadwrittenit?Sheopenedtheblueenvelope
andpulledoutthelinedpaper.

Regan,

We’vebeenobservingyouandtheactivityatyourhousewithinterest.Becareful.You

neverknowwho’swatchingandwaitingforyou.

Itwasn’tsigned.Ashiverranthroughherbodyfromthetopofherheadtoherbaby

toes.CallingDirkandJackintothehousewouldbethebestthingtodoatthatmoment,
butshecouldn’t.Didn’twantto.Shewantedtocrawlintoaholeandstaythereuntilitwas
safeforColintocomerescueher.

Someoneknockedonthedoor.Shejumped.“Whoisit?”

“It’sDirk.”

“Justaminute.”Sheslippedtheletterbetweenthepagesofamagazineonthecoffee

tableandwenttothedoor.

Unlockingthedoor,shegreetedherrent-a-copthroughacrackbetweenthedoorand

casing.

“IjustwantedtoletyouknowthatIwasgoingtogogetmycar.I’llberightback.I

didn’twantyoutowonderwhereIwas.”

“Okay.Thanks.”

“Areyouokay?Youlookverypale.”

ReganwassurprisedatDirk’sobservation.Hedidn’tseemthetypetonoticeanything.

Maybehedidhaveafutureinpolicework.

“I’mfine.Justtired,”shesaid,closingthedoorbeforehecouldaskheranythingelse.

She crashed back on to the couch. This was not how she saw her life going. She

wanted her biggest worry to be about dinner times and what type of lingerie she should
wear to bed. She didn’t want to worry about trials, security guards, and freaky letters
underherdoor.SheneededtohaveColinathomeinherbed.Havingthisbreak,spending
timewithJack,onlymadeherrealizehowmuchshelovedColin.

~~~

Colin slammed the door to Jack’s house. This was not working out, at all. From the

divorce to living with Jack and going out with women from the station. He hit his head
withthepalmofhishandandfellintothecouch.

“Jack,youhere?”

Therewasnoanswerandpartofhimwashappywiththat.Itwasgoodtobealone,

buttheotherhalfwasfreakingoutthatJackwasoveratRegan’shousewithher,cuddled
up on her couch, touching her, kissing her. The more he visualized what could be

happening,themorefurioushebecame.Hestartedpacingthefloor.Hisfeetslappedthe
woodinthelivingroomtothelinoleuminthekitchen,backtothewood.

He had worked for three years to convince Regan to love him, to marry him. Three

years.Hewastheonewhotalkedherintobuyingthehouseshewaslivingin.Him,not
Jack.

Hiscellphonerangashewasheadedbackintothekitchen.“Rourke,”hebarkedinto

thephone.

“Colin?”

Hesighedandstoppedwithonefootonthewoodandoneonthelinoleum.“Regan.”

Allofhissenseswentonhighalert.

“Hi. I was so jealous when I saw you tonight. I needed to tell you that I wanted to

clawthatwoman’seyesout.”

Heleanedhisbackagainstthearchbetweenthetworoomsandslidtothefloor,his

legsbent,hisheadback.Herwordswarmedhisheartandmadehisbodyreact.Ithadbeen
toolongsincehe’dseenher,heldher,satiatedhisbodyinhers.

“Whyarewedoingthis?”heasked,hiseyesclosedsohecouldimaginehersittingon

theirbedwaitingforhim.

“Wehaveto,Colin.Iwantustohaveafuture,tohavechildren,andwecan’tdothat

ifwedon’thaveourhouse,oursavings…youknowwhatImean?”

“Iknowitwastoughforyounottohaveahometocometoafteryourparentsdied.I

know we’ve talked about having a family of our own, but these things happen. My job
isn’tgoingtochangejustbecauseIgetsued.Wecouldliveinashackinthemiddleofthe
woodsandIwouldbecontentjusttobewithyou.”

He heard soft muffles through the phone and his heart tightened and twisted in his

chest.“Don’tcry,sweetheart.Iknowhowhardthisis.”

“For you it’s court, lawyers, and the guys at work ribbing you, but for me,” she

chokedbackasob.“Forme,it’srent-a-cops,stalkers,seeingyouwithotherwomen,and
creepyletters.”

Hepausedtotakeinwhatshe’dsaid.“Creepyletters?Whatareyoutalkingabout?”

“Nevermind,”shesaid.“I’vegottogo.”

“WhenwillIseeyouagain?”heasked.

“Iguessatwork.”Shehungupwithoutsayinggoodbye.

His phone went dark. “Shit.” Keeping himself from driving over there was close to

impossible.Thedooropenedandhewhippedhisheadaround.

“Youokay,man?”Jackasked,approachinghim.

“Notreally.Iwantthistrialtobeover,soIcangobacktomylife.”

Jacksteppedoverhimandwenttothefridge,pulledoutabeer,andflippedthetop.

“Whatdoyoumean,goback?IthoughtyouweremovingforwardwithRebecca.You’re
divorcedsothere’snogoingbacktoRegan.”

Colinhatedhearingthewords.Hefelthisbloodbegintosimmer.Hewasgoingback

to Regan. He wondered if he should tell Jack the truth so he’d back off from Regan. It
wouldhelphisbloodpressurenottoimagineJackandRegantogetherallthetime,orrun
intothemintown.

HeknewhowimportantthisfakedivorcewastoReganandherviewoftheirfuture,

so he kept his mouth shut. Having Jack take care of her created an air of legitimacy on
theirrelationship.JustlikepeopleseeinghimtakeRebeccaouttonightmadethemthink
thathewasmovingonafterRegan.

“You’reright.DidyouseeRebeccatonight?Ididn’tknowshehadallthathair.”

“Yougetsome?”

Colintsked.“Didyou?”

Jacksatonthecouchandlookedbacktowardhim.“Maybeweshouldn’ttalkabout

thisstuff.”

“You’ve been my best friend for years, since we were roommates at the academy.”

Colinpushedagainstthewall,climbingupuntilhewasstanding.Hecameovertostandin
frontofJack,knowingthatstandinginfrontofhishost,whilehewasstillsittingwasseen
as a power play. “I’m glad you’re being a friend to Regan, taking her out to dinner,
makinghersmile,butifyouever—Imeanever—crossthelinewithher,wearedone.”He
punctuated each word to make his point. His breathing was under control, his heart rate
had slowed, but he made sure that the way he looked at his friend left no doubt he was
serious.

Jackdidn’tsayaword,onlytookanotherswigofhisbeer.

Chapter10

ThecourtroomwashushedthenextdayasColin’slawyerquestionedpotentialjurors.

“Haveyoueverbeenconvictedofacrime?Howdoyoufeelaboutpoliceofficers?Isthere
anyreasonwhyyoucan’tbeonthisjury?”

Colin sat there, his hands clenched in his lap, staring at the string of people who

paradedthroughthecourtroom.Heconsciouslystilledhisfoot,whichwantedtotap,tap,
taponthefloor.

Regan’s brother sat at the next table over wearing a shit-brown suit with a tie that

must have been a Goodwill special. Colin tried not to look at him or make eye contact
afterhisinitialperusal.Surprisinglyenough,whenBrianspoketoday,hesoundedlikehe
hadhalfaclue.

Colinturnedaroundtoscantheaudience.Therewereafewofficersheknewtherefor

supportforhim.Itwasnice,butthefacehewantedtoseewasn’tthere.Ofcourseshe’d
beentoldtostayaway,howeverasmallpartofhimwantedhertosay“screwit”andshow
upanyway.

TheinterviewswentonforhoursandColinneededabreak.Hehatedsittingforlong

periodsoftime.Heneededtobeactive,movearound,chasebadguys.

HeleanedintoPetrowinski.“Isthisalmostover?Ineedtogetthehelloutofhere.”

“Don’tlooksoimpatient.Thejurorswillthinkyou’regoingtoflee.”

Colin gave him a dubious look. The only place he was running was out of there.

“Fine,” he said, leaning back in his padded black chair. The room seemed to be getting
warmerandwarmerasthehourspassed.Hisbulletproofvestaddedtohisdiscomfort.He
tuggedathiscollar.

“Youokay?Youlookpale,”Petrowinskiaskedinaloudwhisper.

Colingavehimaquickgrinandlethisfacefallbackintoitsneutralapatheticlook.

Regancalledithis“Idon’tgiveashit”face.

Attheendofthesession,thelawyersagreedoneightmenandfivewomentoround

outthejury.CourtwouldstartthefollowingMonday,givingColintheweekendtorelax
and reflect. The only reflecting he’d be doing was the one where he wished he’d never
givenRamirezaridethatnight.Thatwayhe’dbearoundcausingtroubleinthecity,and
Colinwouldbehomesatiatinghislustfultendencieswithhishotwife.

Realitysucked.HewasdrivinghisbeatertoJack’shousetodrinkabeer,thenhe’dgo

tobedalone,onlytohavethistrialtolookforwardto.

~~~

“Good evening. I’m looking for Colin Rourke,” the female voice on Regan’s home

phonesaidinasingsongvoice.

“He’snothere,mayItakeamessage?”

“Yes.ThisisSamanthaWaltersfromThePortCityTimes.”

“I’msorry,buthecan’ttalktoyou.”

“Ijustwantedtodiscuss—”

“Listen,Samantha,Iunderstandyouhaveajobtodo.However,OfficerRourkeisnot

goingtobeyourbigbreak.Pleasedonotcallhereagain.”Reganhungupthephoneand
satatthekitchentable.ThiswasthelastknownaddressandphonenumberforColin,soit
madesensethatthemediawouldtrytofindhimhere.

Sherantheconversationagaininherheadlikeshewaslisteningtoadigitalrecording.

She’dnevermentionedthedivorce.Neversaid“Hedoesn’tlivehere.”Wassheprotecting
herselforColin?

IfpeoplethoughtColinwasstilllivingthere,perhaps…No,whowasshe kidding?

Thatreporterwasprobablytheonlyoneinthesouthernhalfofthestatewhodidn’tknow
theyweredivorcedandthatColinwasn’tlivingatthehouseanymore.

The stalker knew, her brother, the plaintiff’s lawyer, knew, the Port City Police

Department, especially all the women, knew. She sighed, debating whether to call Colin
andtellhimthatareporterwaslookingforhimandmoreweresuretofollow.Theywere
likesharksinthewater,circling.Wherethere’sone,there’sboundtobemanymore.

Shecheckedherwatch.ItwaspastdinnertimeandColinwouldbehomefromwork.

Hehadn’tbeenonthedesktoday,whichmadehersuspecthehadbeenincourt.

Picking up the phone, she started dialing and it rang in her hand. She jumped, the

phoneslippingoutofherhandsandendinguponthetable,thebatterycoveropenandthe
battery hanging out. Quickly, she picked up the pieces and shoved them together before
pressingtheonbutton.“Hello?”

“Hey,Regan.”

“Brian,”shesaidonasigh.

“What’sgoingon?”

“Iwasgladyouweren’tanotherreporterlookingforColin.”

There was a pause before he answered. “Don’t they realize that he’s not there

anymore?”

“Iguessnot.What’shappeningwithyou?Didyouhavecourttoday?”

“Idid.Wedidjuryselectionanditwasawesome.Whatarush.”

She brought the phone into the living room and curled up on the couch. “How did

Colinlook?”

“Fine, fine. Blue uniform, messed-up hair, like usual. I don’t know. I was too busy

doinglawyerstuff.Iwishyoucouldhaveseenme.Iwastalkingthetalkandwalkingthe
walk.”

She could almost imagine her brother strutting across his apartment “walking the

walk.”Theimagemadeherchuckle.

“Whyareyoulaughing?”hedemanded.“Ismyjobhumorous?”

“No.I’msorry.Iwasjustthinkingaboutsomething.Goaheadandtellmeaboutyour

day.”

ShewaswillingtolistenontheoffchancehewouldmentionsomethingColindidor

said. She’d rather hear everything from Colin’s perspective. She was excited for her
brother to have the opportunity, but she wished he wasn’t on the team going after her
husband.Hegaveherarundownonallofthejurors,theprosandconsofeachoneandthe
rejectshe’dwantedonthejurybutcouldn’tgetthroughColin’slawyer.

After about a half-an-hour, she convinced Brian to hang up and not to come over

becauseitwasgettinglate.

Except, it was still early at the Rourke house. She wasn’t going to go to bed, didn’t

needtoeat,andknewtherewasnothingontelevision.Regansatinthedark,waitingfora
callfromColin.Shehadnoreasontoexpecttohearfromhim.Hehadnoobligationtotell
herabouthisfirstdayofcourt.Sheonlyhopedhe’dwanttotalktoher,notsomeskank
fromthepolicedepartment.

BeinginsecurewasnothernormalM.O.Sheneverlikedshowingweakness,butright

now she needed to hear from Colin. After her parents died, Regan had bounced from
fosterhometofosterhome.Inordertofitinandstayatthetopofthepeckingorder,she
actedtoughandtookcrapfromnoone.Brianhadbeenatsomeofthesameplacements,
butsometimesshe’dbeenalonetofendforherself.

Sheblewoutabreath.Brianhadbeenherrock.Itwaslikeherparentsknewshewas

goingtoneedsupportwhentheyadoptedBrian.

Onceshewasincollegeandoutofthefostercaresystem,shedidn’thearfromBrian

asmuch,whichwasokaybecauseshedidn’tneedhimasmuch.

He called about once a month while he was in graduate school and studying for his

barexam.Hislifewassuddenlybusywithouther.

Shereachedouttohimbysendingagraduationannouncementtothelastaddresshe’d

givenher.Shedidn’tknowifhe’dshowup.Whenhedid,shewasthrilledandtheyspent
thenextfewweekscatchinguponwhatthey’dmissedineachother’slives.

It was not long after they reconnected that she started working at the police

departmentasadispatcher.

Brianhadn’tsaidmuchwhenshestarteddatingColin.Hetriedtobearoundwhenever

ColinwasuntilReganhadtoremindhimthathewasherbrother,notherfather.Shetold
himthatshewasanadultandcoulddowhatevershewanted.Hestillhadonlymethima
handfuloftimes.

Her phone still hadn’t rung when she went upstairs to get ready for bed. She had a

routine from when she and Colin were dating. At around nine she’d head upstairs, then
she’dreadforawhilebeforeturningoutthelightanddriftingofftosleep.

Shelayinbed,thecoverspulledup,hercottonpajamasonandhadjustopenedthe

book she was reading when the phone rang. She debated whether she should answer it.
Shedidn’thavethedesireorenergytotalktoanotherreporterorBrian.

She pursued her lips together as the phone continued to ring. Throwing back the

covers,sherolledtograbthereceiver.

“Hello?”sheaskedwithreserve.

“Regan?”

“Colin.”Reliefandlovefloodedthroughherveins.

“Icouldn’tstopthinkingaboutyou.”

“Areyoucallingonasecureline?”

“Yes.Isthatwantyouwantedtotalkaboutinthefewminuteswehave?”

Shecursedherself.“That’snotwhatIwantedtosay.Howwascourttoday?”

“It was long, boring, and I wanted to leave after lunch. These people are going to

judgeme.Ihadtoplaythepartofperfectcopallday.Iwantedtozoneoutandnotlisten
to everything they were saying about me. I felt like an eight-year-old being sent to the
principal’soffice.

“When I was in school, I got called to the office for fighting on the playground. I

spentafewhoursinandoutoftheprincipal’soffice,waitingformymomtocometake
mehome.ShewastickedwhenIhadtostayhomefortwodaysforprotectingmyself.”

It was a conversation they’d had many times over the lifespan of their relationship.

Shedidn’tmindhearingitagain.StorieslikethismadeherthinkofgoodtimeswithColin.
In bed and on vacations, they spent hours talking about the good and bad of their
childhoods.

“Iwishyoucouldhavebeentheretoday.ThereweretimeswhenIwantedtowhisper

toyouaboutsomeoftheprospects.”

“Thatwouldhavebeengreat.I’dlovetoseewhotheychooseforjuryduty.It’sgoodI

wasn’tpickedtositinonyourtrial.”

“Maybeitwouldhavebeenagoodthing.AtleastIwouldhavehadonepersoninmy

corner.Themembersofthejuryalreadylookatmewithcontemptandtheyhaven’teven
heardthetestimony.”

“Don’t get defeated. You have to stand up for yourself. Only you know what really

happened.Right?”

“Yeah.Thanks.I’mnotlookingforwardtothetrialstartingMonday.”

“Meeither.Itseemslikeit’stheonlythingeveryoneistalkingabout.Thatandthefact

thatI’mabitchfordivorcingyouoverthis.”

“Don’tsaythat.Iknowthisishardforyou,butdon’tletthemgettoyou.”

“Wasityourturntogivethepeptalk?”Reganlaughedintothephone.Shewantedto

keeptheconversationlightandupbeat.Theybothweredealingwiththeirowncrapandit
could bury them if they allowed it. “Are you going to Kim’s party this weekend?” she
asked,hopinghewould.

Jackhadaskedhertogowhenthey’dbeenatdinnertheothernight.Shedidn’tneeda

dateforthecasualparty,butagreedforappearances.

“I don’t know. I heard about it, but I’m not sure I’ll be much fun.” The party was

optional,buteveryonewasexpectedtobethere.Itbuiltcomraderyandteamunity.

Reganscoffed.“Areyoukidding?You’realwaysthelifeoftheparty.I’llbethere.”

Therewasapause.“Letmereconsider.”

“Iwishyouwould.I’mgoingwithJack,butI’dseeyouthere.”

“Idon’tlikeyoudatingJack,”Colinsaidforcefully.

Shestartedtoprotest.“We’renotdating.He’smycover.Peoplewon’tgetsuspicious

ifI’mseeingsomeoneelse.”

“Istilldon’tlikeit.”

SheimaginedColin,hisarmscrossedoverhischest,afrownonhisperfectface.

“I’llbethere.IfonlytokeepaneyeonyouandJack.”

“Yes, Officer.” She saluted him through the phone even though he wouldn’t see it.

“You’re the one I want. Just being able to be in the same room with you will make me
happy.”

“That’smorelikeit.”Hewassmiling,shecouldtell.“I’llseeyouatthepartythen.”

Shesaidgoodnightanddisconnected.Sheclosedhereyesandnodded.Withtheparty

wascomingup,shestartedtoplanonhowshecouldgetafewminutesormorealonewith
Colin.WhatJackdidn’tknow…

~~~

Regan had enough seniority to have most weekends off and this was no exception.

ShespenttimegettingreadyforJacktopickherup.Asuper-hotshowerhadbeenfirston
thelist.Herskinwasrosyfromtheheatasshetoweledherbodydry.Thenshespritzedon
someperfume,herfavoritebecauseColinhadgivenittoherjustbeforetheymarried.He
saidthescentremindedhimofherandshe’dwornitalmosteverydaysince.

She chose black crotchless panties with a matching bra. She slipped on a red, tight

shirt that accentuated her assets and pulled up a tight black skirt made out of synthetic
leather.Herjewelrywassimple,twonecklaces,onethatwasadiamondshe’dboughton
her honeymoon on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. The other plunged deep into her
cleavage.Onthegoldchainwasherweddingring.Thesmoothcircleofgoldsatbetween

herbreasts,bringingcomforttoher.Shehadonlystartedwearingit,butknewitwasthe
rightthingfortonight.

Sheskippeddownthestairs,athickbeatpoundinginherhead.Shebustedoutasong

asthedoorbellrang,cuttingheroff.

“Justasec,”shecalled,slidingherfeetintoblackleatherstilettos.She’dgottenbetter

at walking in them and knew they looked killer. Who cared about comfort and
maneuverabilitywhenherasscouldlookthisgoodallthetime?

Jackdrovethemtothepartyslowerthanadrunkmovingalongatnight.Shetapped

herfootandtuggeddownonherskirtwhenJack’sgazelingeredontheexpanseofthigh
exposed.Shedidn’twanttocauseanaccidentorleadhimon,soshetuggedharder.

“Youlookamazingtonight.Isthereaspecialreason?”heasked.

Regangotthefeelingheexpectedhertosayitwasallforhim.Andthatifheplayed

hiscardsright,hemightgetlucky,butshewouldn’t.

“Noreason.IjustfeltlikedressingupmorethanthejeansandpoloshirtsIwearto

work.”

Heputhisarmoverhershouldersandthreadedhisfingersinherhair.

“Ittookmealongtimetogetready,”shestarted,hopinghe’dgetthehintandleave

herhairalone.

Hemurmuredhisappreciation.

“Iworkedforatleastfiftyminutesonmyhairalone.”

Hepulledhisarmbacklikehe’dbeenstung.“Sorry,”hegrumbled.

“Arewealmostthere?I’veneverbeenoutherebefore.”

“Almost.Youseemexcited.”

“Iam.I’veneverseenKim’shouseandtohearhertalkitmustbespectacular.”

“I’ve heard those rumors too.” He smiled sideways at her. She tried to return his

affection, but couldn’t with butterflies cascading though her stomach. She’d be seeing
Colinsoonandthatwasallthatmattered.

Chapter11

Regan and Jack arrived early at the party since Jack had offered to help get things

ready.Regandidn’trememberJackandKimeverbeingclosefriends.

Beingtherebeforeeveryoneelsehadonebenefit,Reganthought.Aspeoplearrived,

shewasabletowatchthemfromnexttothestaircaseoftheCape-stylehouse,andfrom
thispositionshewouldn’thavetodance,anaddedbenefit.Shesaidhitomostofherco-
workersandchattedwithfriendssheknewfromwork.ThedispatchersaskedaboutJack,
andifshe’dheardfromherex.Shewasn’tsonaïveastothinktheywereaskingtogauge
hercomfort.Really,theywereaskingifhewasgoingtobeatthepartysotheycouldhave
ashotathim.

Theshindighadbeenunderwayforanhour,andReganhadgivenuponColin.He’d

saidhedidn’tthinkhe’dcome,butshe’dpsychedherselfup.

“Youokay?”Jacksidledupbesideherandslippedhisarmaroundhershoulders.

“Fine,”sheanswered,glancingaroundtheroom.

“Lookingforanyoneinparticular?”

She whipped her head back to Jack, her hair bouncing in her face. “No. Of course

not.”

“Hesaidhewasn’tcoming,ifyou’reconcernedaboutColinshowingup.”

Regan smiled up at Jack who was about six inches taller than she was even in the

heels.Shetriedtoconjureupinnocencesohewouldbethrownoff.Shewashereforhim,
shetriedtotellherselfasshesnuckapeekatthedoor.

Jack wrapped her into his arms just as the door opened with Colin and Rebecca

framedintheopening.

Regan’s smile went to a frown in the time it took for eyes to slide from Colin’s

angularjawtoRebecca’sblondebombshellhair.Suddenly,Reganfeltfoolish.Whathad
shebeenthinkingwearingthissluttygetup?Shewasnomatchfortheyoungrookie.

Snagging Colin’s gaze, she tried to convey everything she’d been thinking. His

eyebrowsrose,andhecrackedawrysmile.Shegentlyslidherankleoutforhisviewing
pleasure,carefulnottoalertJacktowhatshewasdoing.

He glanced down at his date, who was scanning the room, before giving Regan a

thumbs-up.Shesmiledbackathim.Eatyourheartout,Rebecca.

“Yousureyou’reokay?”Jackasked.

She gave him a quick smile, noting that he seemed genuinely concerned about her

welfare.Wellifthatwasn’tapisser.Shefoundamanwhocaredaboutheranditwasthe
last thing she wanted. The whole situation, her with Jack and Colin with Rebecca was

crazy.ShefocusedbackonJack.“Yousaidhewasn’tcoming.”

“Right.HeclaimedhewasgoingtodrinkbeerandwatchsomelameTVshow.”

“Helooksprettysobertome,”Regansaid,smirkingatJack.

HespunaroundandzeroedinonColin.Hisgazewashardastheymadeeyecontact

andRegantookasteptothesideawayfromJack.Hereachedouttoherwithoutlooking,
thenwrappedhispowerfularmaroundherwaistandpulledherbacktohim.“Stayhere.”

All pretenses of them having a good time went out the window. She glared at him.

“Areyoukiddingme?”

“Idon’twanttohavehimthinkingyou’refairgame.Youguysaredivorced,though

I’mnotsureherealizesthat.”

PaniccloggedRegan’sthroat.“Whatdoyoumean?”

“Nothing.Just,well,hewarnedmetoawayfromyou.”

“I’mnotanyone’sproperty.I’llchoosewhoIwanttobewith,Jack.Colindoesn’t,and

youcertainlydon’townme.”

Shesawhiseyesfocusonherfaceandclear,likehe’dforgottenwhohewastalking

to.Heshookhishead.“What?”

Sherolledhereyes.“Whydon’tyougogetusdrinks?”Sheshookheremptycup.He

tookthemandleftherlikethe“stayhere”commenthadn’thappen.

Regan heard a group of women screech by the door, in the center was Rebecca

jumpingupanddown.Colinpattedherontheasstoshooheroffwithherfriends.

Like a magnet, Colin drew Regan toward him. She couldn’t help being reeled in by

him.Shekeptaneyeoutforpeoplewhowouldnoticethemtalking,butcouldn’tstopher
feetfrommovingacrosstheroom.Sidestep,sidestep,spin,crossstep,andshewasthere,
nexttoColininfrontofthelargepicturewindowinthelivingroom.

“Comehereoften?”sheaskedasanopening.

“You’re not going to get many dates with a pick-up line like that. How are you,

Regan?”

“Fine.”

He fingered the short hem of her skirt, bringing his face lower and in toward her

cleavage.“Youlookgoodenoughtoeat.”

Shesuckedinabreath.

“I’msurprisedJackleftyoursidewithyoudressedlikethat.Iwouldhavemyhands

alloveryou.”

Sheraisedhereyebrowsandlookedathishands.Onegraspedherthighatthehemof

herskirtandtheotherwasonherwaist.“Whataboutmyshoes?”

“Sweetheart.Ilikethisnewtrendyouhaveofwearingdo-meheels.Icouldhearthem

callingmefromacrosstheroom.”

“You’re not looking too shabby either,” she said, admiring him openly. “Someone

specialyouwerehopingtoimpress?”

“Onlyone.”

Shecouldn’thelpherself.“Rebecca?”

Hestraightened,droppinghishands.“No.You,”hesaid,aseriousexpressiononhis

face.“IknewyouweregoingtobeherewithJackoncehelefttopickyouup.Rebecca
wasalast-minuteaddition.She’daskedmeafewdaysago,butIdidn’twanttobehere
withher.”

“ItoldyouI’dbeherewithJack,butI’mgladyoucame.Youneedtoblowoffsome

steambeforeMonday’strial.”

“Don’tremindme,”hesaid.

Whilethey’dbeentalking,Reganrealizedshewassteppingbackwitheveryforward

step Colin took until she bumped against the wall. He leaned into her, one hand braced
againstthewalloverhershoulder.

“Wannagetoutofhere?”hewhispered.

Her heart kicked into overdrive like when he’d first asked her out. That excited

nervousnessshe’dfeltbackthenwasduplicatedathisillicitproposition.

“Yes,”shewhisperedback.“But,Ican’t.Youcan’taffordthat.”

Hechangedpositionsoquicklyshetippedonherheelsandalmostfellonhergood-

lookingass.Heclaspedherhandandpulledheroutofthelivingroomandupthestairsto
thesecondfloor.

“Whatareyoudoing?Jack’sgoingtobelookingforme.And,Rebecca…”

“Screwthem,”hesaid,openingadoor.Hedraggedherthroughitandshutitbehind

them.

Reganlookedaround.Theywereinthebathroom.Shower,tub,doublesinks,alarge

window looking onto the dark backyard with a half curtain blocking their lower halves
frombeingseenbycuriousonlookers,typicalsuburbanbathroom.Shegrinnedupathim.
“Nowthatwe’rehere,whatshallwedo?”

Without hesitation, he swooped in to capture her mouth. Fusing them together, he

pulledherintohishardbody.Shegrabbedhisshoulders,devouringhismouthwithhers,
givingasmuchasshewastaking.

Shefeltthehardlengthofhimandrubbedagainsthim,herhipsmovingsidetosidein

timewithsomeunheardmusic.

She let out a squeal when he picked her up by her waist and set her between the

doublesinks.Hekisseddownherneck,sendingripplesofpleasuretoherhardnipplesand
between her thighs, straight to her core. Spreading her knees for him to settle himself

between,shesqueezedhimtoher.

“Weshouldn’tdothis,”shesaid.“We’retoopublic.”

He pushed her skirt up her legs until she felt the cool air on her bare pussy. “Holy

shit,”hesaidonaraspwhenhesawthelacepanties.“Youwantedthisallalong.Youwere
planningforthis,weren’tyou?”Hecaughthergaze,hiseyesasunfocusedashersfelt.

Shenodded.“Iwasn’tthinking.”

Heslippedafingerbetweenthescrapsoflace,thenbetweenherslickfoldsandinto

her.Sheletoutaloudmoan.Hecaughtitwithhismouthoverhers.Histonguescraped
acrosshersashefingeredherinandout.

“Colin,”shepanted.“I-I…can’t.”

She closed her eyes and let the sensations wash over her, her pussy clenching at his

finger,tryingtosuckitdeeperintoher.

“Preview, sweetheart,” he said, unbuttoning and unzipping his jeans. His erection

sprungfreefromhispants.Hewascommando,shenoticedwithappreciation.Stilltrying
tocontrolherbreathingandherheartrate,shewrappedherhandaroundhishardlength
andstrokedhim.

Her pussy was throbbing for him again. The whole protest about being in a public

placeflewoutthewindow.Shedidn’tcare.Theonlythingthatmatteredwasthisman,her
man,makinglovetoherwherevertheycould.

“Youwanttostopnow?”heasked,passionbarelycontainedinhisgruffvoice.

Sheshookherheadandpumpedhimagain.“Ineedyou.Wantyou,Colin.Takeme

now.Touchme,everywhere.”

Heranhishandsdownherface,overherneck,acrossherbreaststillencasedinher

tightshirtandlacebra.Shewantedthemoff,wantedtobenakedforhim,butdidn’tdare.
Hepinchedathernipples.

“IwishIcouldseethemhardenforme.”

Shegroanedandslidherhipsforwardtoencouragehimtoenterher.Touchinghimin

return,shepluckedathisshirtwherehisnippleswere,feelingtheirhardness.

Hishandscontinueddownoverherwaistanddowntoherhips.Hespreadherfolds

againandthrustforwarduntilhewasfullysheathedinher.Shefelttheblunttipofhimhit
herG-spotandthetremblesstarted,butsheheldthematbay.

Someoneknockedonthebathroomdoor.

“Occupied,”Colingritted.Thecordofmusclesinhisneckstrainedashefrozeinside

her.

“Comeonman.Igottago.Youintherealone?”

Regan’s opened her eyes wide at him. She tried to shut her legs, but Colin held her

prisonerwithhiscockburiedinsideher.

“There’sanotherbathroom.Findit,asshole.”

Colin shifted and pulled out until just the tip of him stretched her opening, then he

plungedintoheragain.

Shestifledamoanandrockedintohishipsashepulledbackout.Throwingherhead

back,sherodethewavesofpleasurethatricochetedthroughherbodywitheverymovehe
made.

“Regan?Areyouinthere?”Jackcalledthroughthedoor.

“Nope,” she squeaked, as her orgasm drew closer and closer. She felt the spiraling

sensationasColin’sbreathingshallowedandhe’dshuthiseyes.

“Comeon,Regan.Iknowthat’syou.”

“Seriously,Jack,”shepleaded.“I’llbeoutinaminute.Givemesomespace.”

“Yousoundfunny,”hesaid.

“Jack!”

Colin continued his rhythm, pumping into her. Her pussy clenched and released in

timewithhim.Screwthemall.TheorgasmhitherwiththeforceofaPortCitybusand
shecriedouthisname.Ifanyonelisteningheardher,shedidn’tgiveashitatthatmoment.
Shecontinuedridinghiscockuntilshefelthimlengthenandthenstiffeninsideherashe
cameonagroan.

“I’mgoingtokillthatguy,”Colinsaidafterherelaxed,stillburieddeepinher.

“Getinline,”Regansaid.Shekissedhismouth,swirlinghertongueintomatewith

his,thenshenippedhislip.“Thatwasamazing.”

“It was,” he agreed. “Want to go again? I can’t get enough of you.” A smile, his

specialsmileforher,spreadacrosshisfaceandhiseyeslitup.

“Yes,butI’mafraidthatouradmirersaregoingtocomelookingagainandJackwill

bringreinforcements.”

Sheclenchedhiscockinsideher.Thenhewithdrewfromherandstartedcleaningup.

Moving wasn’t an option at this moment for Regan. She let Colin wipe her with a
washcloth he found in the closet. She was tender, but ready to go again. As he ran the
clothoverher,shebuckedherhips,tryingtogethimtotouchheragain.

“Regan.StoporI’llbetemptedtoturnyouoverandspankyourlittle,roundass.Trust

me,I’denjoyit.”

“Metoo,”shesaiddreamily.“Canyoucometothehousetonight?”

“With your rent-a-cop?” He ran the water in one of the sinks and then dried her off

andpulledhertoherfeet.

“I’llgethimagirl,tellhimtoruntothestore,anything.Iwantyouinmybed,”she

said,clutchinghisfaceandkissinghim.Shelickedhisclosedlips.

“Haveyoualwaysbeenthisinsatiable?”

She grinned at him. “Come over and find out. I have another pair of shoes to show

you.”

“I’ll try,” he said, wiping himself and adjusting his pants. He drifted to the window

and looked down. “I’ll go out this way. You can shut the window after I’m down. That
wayyoucanleavelikenothinghappened.”

Shescoffed,thennodded.“Thatwasmorethannothing,butthanks,Colin,”shesaid.

Hewastryingtoplaybothends,protectingtheirsecretandgivinghermorepleasurethan
she’dhadinrecentmemory.Whyhadn’ttheydonethissneakingaroundstuffbefore?It
washot.

Straightening her skirt and shirt, she looked into the mirror and realized that Colin

must have had an awesome view of her ass as they made love. A cold breeze swept
throughtheroomasheopenedthewindow.Sheputahandtoherhair,whichwasmessier
thanithadbeenandherlipswereredandswollenfromColin’skisses.

“I love you,” Colin said as he disappeared out the window and below the sash. She

didn’trespond,butsteppedtothewindow,hersatiatedbodyshakyonherheels.Hehitthe
groundwithanooof,thenshelosthiminthedarkness.Closingthewindow,sheshivered
andcrossedbacktothesinkwhereshewashedherhandsbeforeunlockingthedoorand
leaving.

Jack was on the stairs. “What the hell were you doing in there? Are you okay? I

thoughtIheardscreaming.”

“I’m fine, Jack. I don’t need you checking up on me. I have a brother and Dirk for

that.”Shepassedhimonthestairsandcontinuedintotheroomcrowdedwithpeople.

“Regan?”awomanasked,tappingReganontheshoulder.

ReganturnedtofindRebeccasmilingather.

“I can’t find Colin. You haven’t seen him, have you?” she asked, giving Regan the

onceover.

“You’velostyourdate?Howsad.Ihaven’tseenhim.Goodluck.”Reganbelliedupto

thebeveragetableandpouredherselfashotofcoconutrumanddrankitinoneswig.

“What’sgoingon?”Jackasked.Hisvoicewasabrasive.

“I’mhavingadrink,Jack,”sheanswered,justasirritated.Shehatedbeingquestioned

abouthermotives,especiallybyamanwhohadnoclaimtoher.Shepouredanothershot
anddownedit.Givinghimasassysmile,shesaunteredoffinsearchofsomeoneelseto
talkto.KeepinganeyeoutforColin,shespokewithKimandcomplimentedheronher
decoratingtalent.ShefeltJack’sgazefollowingheraroundtheroom.

Regan joined a group in a heated discussion about black uniforms for the special

reactionteamversuskelly-greenuniforms.“NoonewantstoseeoneoftheSRTguysin
green.Blackisaman’scolor,”Regansaidasabreezeblewinfromtheopeningdoor.She

caughttheflashofColin’sblondhairinthehalllight.

“Greenisthenewblack,Regan,”NeilWaterstoldherwithalaugh.

“Perhaps,”shesaidabsentmindedly.

“Noquestion.Everyoneismovingtothegreens,”Neilcontinued.

Hehadn’tevennoticedshewasonlylisteningwithhalfherbrain.WatchingColinas

hemetupwithRebecca,shefeltherpulseflutteratthebaseofherthroat.

Colinglancedinherdirectionandraisedhiseyebrows,whichshetooktomeanthat

theywerebacktoplayingtheirdeceptivegame.

“Areyouokay,Regan?”Neilasked,touchingherarm.

Thatbroughtherbacktothepresent.“Yeah.I’mfine.Why?”

“You’regettingredandblotchyonyourneckandchest.NotthatIwaslookingatyour

chest,”hesaid.

“I’mgoingtogetsomeairoutside.It’swarminhere.”Sheexcusedherselfandheaded

forthesamedoorColinhadentered.Shehadtopasshimonthewayoutandshehadto
controltheurgetopinchhisass.Insteadshebumpedhimlikeshe’dbeenpushed,although
noonewasnearher.HebumpedforwardintoRebecca.

“Oh,sorry,”Regansaid,notmeaningawordofit.

“Youhavenothingtobesorryfor,”Colinsaid,asmilehintingatthecornerofhislips.

Reganescapedfromthepartyintothecoolnightair.Eventhoughitwasspring,itwas

chillyatnightandsheinhaleddeeply.

“Isawyouleave,”Jacksaid,comingupbehindher.

Shelethershouldersfallindefeat.

“Ididn’twantyoutobecold.Wantmyjacket?”

Hewastrying,Reganthought.Beingthegoodguywouldusuallyendearawomanto

him,butinthiscase,shedidn’twanttoleadhimonwhentherewasnofutureforthem.

“I’mfine.”

“I’vebeenhearingthatalot.Youseemsad.”

She turned around to face him. Looking into his eyes, she smiled softly. “Jack. We

havetotalk.”

“No,wedon’t,”hesaid,shakinghishead.

“Wedo.Idon’tfeelthesamewayaboutyouthatyouclaimtofeelaboutme.”

“Regan,hon.I’vebeeninlovewithyouforthreeyears.”Hisvoicegrewlouder.She

wasn’t sure if it was for the audience or if he meant it. “I couldn’t act on those feelings
becausemybestfriendmadethefirstmove.Dammit,Regan.”Heclutchedherarmsand
draggedhertohisbody.

His lips were on hers before she had a moment to realize what was happening. She

pushedagainstthehardmusclesofhischest.“No!”

“Regan,”hesaid,holdingontoher.

She could feel his fingers digging into her flesh, positive he was going to

unintentionallyleavemarks.“No,Jack!Thisisn’tgoingtohappen.”Shetwisted,tryingto
getaway,andrememberedColinteachingherhowtobreakanattacker’sgrip.Goinglimp,
shesunktotheground.Jacktriedtoholdherupforafewseconds,thenreleasedherand
letherhittheground.

Light from the house illuminated the front yard. “Step away from her.” Regan

recognized Colin’s voice and knew just from the tone of his voice he was close to his
breakingpoint.

JackspunonColin,leavinghersittingontheground,herskirthikeduphighonher

thighs.“Thisisnoneofyourbusiness,bud.”

A crowd of people stood on the front porch, watching Jack and Colin glare at one

another. She tried to push up to her knees to stand, but the spiked heels made standing
difficult. That, and the skirt contributed to her inability to get up. She would need help.
LookingupatJack,shecontemplatedgrabbinghisbeltandpullingherselfup,butdecided
againstit.

“Weallheardhertellyou‘no’,”Colinsaid.

Thegroupbehindhimnoddedvigorously.

“Thisisbetweenus,”Jacksaid.“Youhadyourchancewithherandnowshe’smine.”

Regangrittedherteeth.Nooneclaimedherforsportorinreallife.Shereachedout

andsnaggedJack’sbeltandinonefluidmotionstoodwithoutflashingtheonlookers,at
thesametimemanagingtothrowJackoffbalancesothathestumbledbackward.“Thank
you,”shesaidtoJack,thensheturnedtothecrowd.“Jackwasjustsayinggoodnightand
nowhe’sgoinghometosleepitoff.”

“Likehell.IbroughtyouandI’lltakeyouhome.”

“Maybe someone else can give him a ride home. I’ll find my own ride. We need to

cooloff,”shesaid,takingtentativestepsawayfromJack,fullyexpectinghimtograbher.
Hedidn’t.

SomeonefromthecrowdofferedtotakeJackhome.RegancaughtColin’spenetrating

stare.“I’mokay,”shemouthedtohim.Heturnedandwentbackinside,pushingthrough
thecrowd.

Amonthago,Colinwouldhavebeencomfortingher,knockingJacktothegroundand

takingherhome,butinsteadshestoodonthefrontlawn,mudstained,embarrassed,and
alone. What had Jack been trying to do? Had he lost his mind? He’d obviously been
drinking while she and Colin were upstairs. He’d gone off script and almost blew the
wholecharade.Shevowednottospendanymoretimewithhimalone.

Coverornocover.

Chapter12

Monday was chaotic at the station. Everyone was buzzing about the trial starting.

Reganheardthroughthegrapevinethatafewofficerswereplanningtostopbytosupport
Colin.Sheassumedherseatandputontheheadset,waitingforherfirstcalloftheday.

“Psst,Regan,”Amy,anotherdispatcher,calledfromthenextdeskover.“Didyouhear

aboutColinandJack?”

Reganlookedawayfromherscreenlistingallthecalls.“No,what?”

“Colinmovedout.YouknewhewasstayingwithJack,right?”

Regannodded.

“Aftertheincidentattheparty,Colinwentbacktothehouseandmovedhisstuff.I

thinkhemovedinwithRebecca.”

Reganfeltlikeshe’dbeenstabbedwithaten-inchknife.Herheartskippedabeatand

shefeltlightheaded.

“Guessyoudidn’tknow,”Amysaidbeforeshesatbackuprightinherchair.“Nine-

one-one,whatisyouremergency?”

Regan stared blankly at the screen. Her phone didn’t ring and she was grateful.

Ruining Colin and Jack’s friendship hadn’t been in her list of consequences when she
plannedthedivorce.TellingJackthetruthwasn’tanoptionrightnow,butsheconsidered
it so Colin would have someone to confide in, someone other than a hussy, who should
remain nameless. They’d both been friends with Jack for many years and she couldn’t
imaginetheirliveswithouthim.

Herphonerang.Sheansweredit,gladforthedistraction.

~~~

Colinsatboltuprightinthecourtroom.Thejudgewastakinghistimegettingoutto

preside over this fiasco. The jury was fidgeting in their chairs, and every time someone
shifted,theseatssqueaked,gratingonhisnerves.

“Allrise,”thebailiffsaid.“ThehonorableRonaldLynchpresiding.”

Colinstoodwiththerestofthecourtroom.Heglancedoverhisshoulder.Therewasa

group of officers in the back in their duty uniforms. Grateful for their presence, he sat
downwiththeknowledgethatnoteveryoneinthedepartmentthoughthewasguilty.

The video had gone viral over the weekend. The media showed it on all of their

newscasts, and it was uploaded to YouTube by Blulineh8r. When Colin realized it was
receivingmorehitsthantherewerepeopleinPortCityandSouthportcombined,hefelt
hiscareerandfuturetumblingoutofhisgrasp.

The opening ritual of the trial started and he watched the blah, blah, blah of the

players. It was like watching a movie. One he didn’t want to be a part of. Colin leaned
back against his chair. “Don’t look so defeated,” Petrowinski murmured. “You’re giving
theotherteamconfidence.”

Colin sat up straight and looked over at Brian who was grinning from ear to ear at

somethinghisclienthadsaid.

“Attorneys,youropeningstatement.”

Brian stood slowly and deliberately. He clutched his leather folder holding a yellow

notebooklikeitwasalifepreserverandhewasontheTitanic.“Yourhonor.Membersof
the jury. Today we will prove that our clients have suffered mental anguish due to the
deathoftheirson,RodrigoRamirez,whowasagoodcitizenandneverdidanyoneharm.
Hisbodyhasnotbeenrecovered.”

Mrs.Ramirezchokedoutanextraloudsob.“Thatmankilledmybaby,”thewoman

criedout,throwingherselfonthetable.

“Mrs. Ramirez, this is not the Great White Way. Save the theatrics for the theater.

Theywon’thelphere,”JudgeLynchsaid.“Counsel,controlyourclients.Nowthatthat’s
outoftheway,let’sgetstarted.”

Brianshookhisheadathisclient,thenturnedtothejudge.“Thisman,OfficerColin

Rourke,isseeninavideothatyou,too,willsee,tossingRodrigooffthebridgebetween
Port and South Cities. This act of violence is only one in a stream of excessive force
complaints charged to Officer Rourke.” Brian returned to his seat and looked over at
Colin.Colin’sskincrawledfromthehatredthatradiatedinBrian’seyes.

It was Petrowinski’s turn and Colin felt his stomach knot. He’d picked the guy to

representhim,hopefulthathewoulddoagoodenoughjobtogethimfreeofthecharges.

“YourHonor,andmembersofthejury,thankyouforyourtimeinthiscase.Ourjob

willbetodiscrediteverythingthattheplaintiffsthinktheyhaveagainstmyclient.Wewill
talkaboutanofficerwhoworkstheswingshiftandiswellacquaintedwiththeunderbelly
ofPortCitylife.HewasalsofamiliarwithMr.Ramirezinaprofessionalcapacity,having
arrestedhimbefore.Thevideoyouwillseecouldhavebeencreatedbymytwelve-year-
olddaughter.It’sgrainyandnoonecanclaimbeyondareasonabledoubtthattheofficer
inthepictureisColinRourke.”

Hepausedfordramaticeffect,ormaybebecausehewasthinkingofwhattosaynext.

Colincouldn’ttell.Helookedupathimexpectantly.

“Colin Rourke is a good officer. He’s received awards for his bravery, his heroism,

and for his commitment to the people of this city. He does not deserve to be accused in
thiscase.Thankyou.”

Petrowinskisatinhischairwithathud.Colincouldseethesweatonhisupperlipand

brow.“Goodjob,”Colinwhisperedbecausehedidn’tknowwhatelsetosay.

“Hold your compliments until the trial is over. We’ve got a long way to go,” he

replied,hisvoicejustassoft.

AnotherlawyerfromtheothersideoftheaislestoodwithhisnotebookandaDVD,

whichColinsuspectedwasthevideoofRamirezgettingtossedoffthebridge.“I’dliketo
submitthisDVDasevidence,”hesaid,handingthedisctothedeputy,whothenmarkedit
beforehandingittothejudge.Theyalsocalledtheirfirstwitnesstotellthecourtaboutthe
video.Hewasintroducedasthebridgeguardthenightoftheallegedevent.

ThebailiffrolledaTVoutfromabackcornerofthecourtandplaceditinfrontofthe

jury.Thejudgemovedtogetabetterview.Colinhadseenthevideo,sohestayedputand
listenedtothebreathingofthejurors.

Brian stood next to the TV with a metal pointer. “Is this the video from the tower

cameraonthebridgefromthenightofJanuarythird?”Brianaskedhiswitness.

“Thatiscorrect.”

“Iamtoassumethatthereisnosoundonthiscamera.”

“True.Youwouldn’thearanythingfromthatfarawayanyway.”

BriansquattedinfrontoftheTVtopressplay.

The jury members leaned in closer to the TV and Colin suspected it was when the

officerwasgettingoutofthecar.

“Hereyouseetheofficergettingoutofthecruiser.Heisthesameheight,build,and

statureofColinRourke,”thewitnesssaid,pointingtothescreen.

“Objection,”Petrowinskicalled.“Speculation.”

“Sustained,”JudgeLynchsaid.

“Wewillprovethatwithsomeoftheotherwitnesseswewillcall.”

ThevideoendedwithRamirezgoingovertherailingintothefreezingwaterbelow.A

fewofthewomengasped.Ramirez’sfamilysatstoicintheirchairs.BrianturnedtheTV
offandglancedoveratColin,thenbacktothejury.

Brian then called some forensic guy who Brian said was an expert in determining

height and weight of people, even on surveillance videos. He presented the judge with
Colin’svitalstatisticsandhisprofessionalopinionastotheheightandweightoftheman
onthevideo.

Colinheldinascoff.Wasthisguyfromthecarnivaltravelingthroughtown?Could

Colinwinaprizeifthisbozoguessedthewrongweight?Briancontinuedhisassaulton
Colin,callingwitnessafterwitness,talkingabouthisrecordingeneralterms,discussing
thedissolutionofhismarriageandthrowinginvariousothertidbits.Colinwasfumingby
thetimelunchrecesswascalled.Ifcrossingtheroomandpunchingtheguyinthenose
wouldn’thelpproveBrian’spoint,hetotallywouldhave.

Petrowinski took Colin by the arm and led him out a side door into an antechamber

room where there were two brown bags packed. “I brought lunch for us,” he said,
motioningtothechairnearthewindows.“Ididn’tthinkitwouldbeagoodideatotryto
getoutsidewiththemediacircling.”

Thehourlunchwentbyquickly.Oncebackinthecourtroom,Colinlookedaroundfor

familiarfaceswhilePetrowinskilookedoverwhathe’dwrittenthatmorning.Healsohad
ayellowlegalpadthatheconstantlyjottednoteson.Hopefullyitwasmorethan“pickup
thedrycleaning”or“buymilk.”

Whencourtwasbackinsession,Briantookthestageagainandpresentedwitnesses

who gave information about Ramirez, everything from the award he received in
elementaryschoolforcitizenshiptohisworkatthelocalshelter.Heconvenientlyleftout
the city workers who could testify about Ramirez living at the shelter and the rap sheet
thatwasatleasttwopageslong.ColinmentionedthistohislawyerandPetrowinskiwrote
down‘pullrapsheet.’

After two more hours, Colin was getting fidgety. Sitting still for hours was not his

forte.Heshiftedinhisseatagain.Brianwasdroningon,pullingadditionalliesorveiled
truthsfromhiswitnesses,manipulatingtheirtestimonytohisneeds.

Nice sideshow Regan’s brother and his team were running, Colin thought. He could

haveworkedforBroadwaywithmoveslikethat,andifhetookhisclientsalong…whoa
…aTonycouldbeintheirfutures.TheRamirezfamilyhadn’tsaidmuchallday.Colin
glanced over at them and thought they looked more bored than he felt. The missus was
filinghernails.Colinhadtolooktwicetomakesurehewasseeingitcorrectly.Afterher
initialoutburst,she’dcalmedherself.Heshookhishead.

Reganwouldhavelovedseeingthis.SheusedtolovewatchingJudgeJudyandJudge

Joeandcommentingonallofthepatheticpeopleairingtheirdirtylaundrytotheviewing
public. As if thinking about her conjured her up, he saw Brian’s grin grow until the
cornersofhismouthwerealmostathisears.Colinturnedtolookatthedoor,andthere
shewas.

Itwaslikeabreathoflifeenteringthestuffy,deadcourtroom.Shewaswearingdress

pants and a sweater set he hadn’t seen before, but he really didn’t care if she’d been
wearingapromgown.

He’d told Regan not to come, but he was happy she’d ignored him this time. His

confidence soared. Catching her eyes wasn’t possible as she kept her gaze down and
looked around nervously for an empty seat. She must have just gotten out of work, he
thought.

ColinshiftedhisgazetoBrian,whohadpausedinhissoftshoe,stillwatchingRegan

assheshuffledintoarowfilledwithpoliceofficers.Onceshewasseated,Colinsawher
lookup,buthehadtolookawaybeforehecouldsignalherbecausePetrowinskijabbed
himintheribs.

“Faceforward.Thejuryiswatching.”

Sureenough,everypairofeyeswaslookingattherearofthecourtroom,watching

Reganlikeshewassomesecretkeytothecase.

“Sorry,”Brianmumbled.“Sotellus,howdidyoucharacterizethisincident?”

The witness glared at Colin. “As I was saying, Rodrigo was loved by all who knew

him,exceptColinRourke,whohadanaxtogrindwithRodrigoandinafitofragethrew
himoffthebridgeintothefreezingriverbelow.”

TheeditorializingwasgettingonColin’snerves.Itwasobviousthatthiswholetrial

was going to be a challenge to his patience. He scanned the juror panel. Some of them
lookedliketheywerefakinginterest.Heknewhowtheyfelt.Heneededtobeoutonthe
streets fighting crime, not cooped up in here and definitely not sitting at a desk in the
station.

It wasn’t more than a half hour before Brian sat down. Colin thought the audience

wouldhaveclappedbecauseitwasover,ifthathadbeenappropriate.Thejudgecalleda
recessuntilthenextmorning,whentheywouldstartcallingwitnesses.

Colinsunkdowninhischairafterthejudgelefttheroom.“Thishastobethehardest

thingI’veeverhadtodo,”ColintoldPetrowinski.

“Giveupyet,Officer?”Brianasked,knockingonthewoodentableinfrontofColin.

“Sure,Brian.Whateveryouwant,aslongasIdon’thavetolistentoyourrenditionof

thetruthanymore.Didyoustayupallnightthinkingofthatcraptoaskthoseguys?”

“Theyarecalledfactsandthosefactsaregoingtocostyou.”

“Gentlemen,”afemalevoicesaidfrombehindColin.

“Regan,I’msogladyoumadeittoseemyfirstdayofcourt.Iexpectedyoutobehere

thismorningforopeningstatements,butIunderstand.”

Colin closed his eyes. She’d come to see him, not her brother, right? He opened his

eyesagainandlookedupather.“Goodtoseeyou,Regan.Everythingokay?”

“So far, so good,” she said, giving him a weak smile. “I don’t know how you guys

survivedinhere.It’sstuffyandhot.”

“Soitwasn’tjustme,”Colinsaid,jokinglyforgettingwherehewasandwhohewas

with.

“Regan,dear,agroupofusaregoingtogetsomedrinksandthendinner,wouldyou

liketojoinus?”Brianasked,circlingaroundthetabletogetclosertoher.

“Idon’tthinkI’dbegreatcompany.I’mtiredafteralongdayatwork.”

“I could blow them off and take you home. Maybe I could pick up some dinner for

us.”

ShelookeddownatColin,thenbackupatBrian.Colindidn’tknowwhattomakeof

her indecision. Did she want to spend time with her brother, listening to him drone on
aboutthetrialandhowbrillianthewas?

Regan touched Brian’s arms. “Not tonight, Brian. Go out with you co-workers. I’m

surethatwillbefun.”

Colinsmiledbutknewenoughtokeephismouthshut.

Regansmiledback,butstifleditwhenBrianlookedinherdirection.

“I’lltakeyoutoyourcar,”Briantoldher,givingColinalookthatintendedtoshowhe

wasthebiggergentleman.

BrianlefttopickuphisbriefcaseandReganhaphazardlydroppedafoldedpieceof

paper on the table in front of Colin. He scooped it up and tucked it in his pocket. Brian
rejoinedthem,andwithhisarmaroundherwaist,heguidedheroutthedoor.

“I’mguessingthat’stheex-wife?”Petrowinskisaid,gatheringuphisbelongings.

“Yeah.”Colinhatedthewistfultoneinhisvoice.Rememberingthenote,hepulledit

outofhispocketandcarefullyunfoldeditsonoonewouldseeitbuthim.

Colin,Meetmeatourspottonight9p.m.R.

He quickly folded the note back up and stuffed it into his pocket. He stood after

everyone had left the courtroom. He hadn’t intended to be the last one out, but it suited
him.Unlikewithacriminaltrial,hewasstillfreetowork,play,andgohomeeachday,
andtonighthewouldbeabletomeetRegan.

Cruisingdownthe marble-tiledhallway,his footstepsechoing,he wasonly thinking

aboutseeingRegan.Whenhepushedopenthedoor,herealizedhiserror.

Thecrowdofpeoplerushedhim,yellingquestions.“OfficerRourke.”

“Colin,howdidcourtgotoday?”

“Whatdidyoudowiththebody?”

“Willyoucontinuetobeapoliceofficer?”

The media frenzy shocked him into reality and out of his fantasy starring Regan.

Shouldn’tPetrowinskibeheretohelphimthroughthismaze?

“I have no comment at this time. Once the facts are presented and arguments are

concluded,I’msureIwillbecleared.And,yes.Iwillstillcontinuetobeapoliceofficer
forPortCity.”

He pushed his way through the gaggle of people and made a beeline for his car,

forcinghimselfnottorun.Onceinside,hetookafewsteadyingdeepbreaths.Thiswasn’t
a game. Up until the moment when the reporters jumped him, the whole thing had the
underpinnings of a game. The divorce, moving in with Jack, dating Rebecca, leaving
Jack’s,stayingovernightatRebecca’sapartment:itwaslikeachessmatch.

Ashesatinhiscar,thebottomfelloutofhisbubbleandawaveofdepressionhithim

like a tsunami. “Son of a bitch!” he yelled, slamming his hands into the steering wheel.
Before the crowd located him, he started the car and drove off. He was like a turtle
carryingallofhisbelongingswithhim.HehadnointentionofgoingbacktoRebecca’s,
andJackwasn’tspeakingtohim.Hecheckedhiswatchattheredlight.Hestillhadfive
hoursbeforehe’dseeRegan.

Chapter13

Colindrovearounduntilhehadtoputmoregasinhiscar,thenheheadedtotheirspot

and pulled off the road. The path had grown over since they’d last been there, but he
plowed through, ignoring the bushes clawing at his car. Finally, the foliage cleared and
openedintoasmallfieldskirtedbyariver.

Adeerskitteredoffintothewoods.Colinswungthecartothesideandparked.They

hadcometothisspotfortwoofthethreeyearsthey’ddated.Hefounditfiveyearsago
while hiking. It was only a handful of miles out of the city, but it was totally secluded.
Colinhadwantedtobuythelanduntilhe’dfoundoutitwasownedbytheState.

The water babbled in the dark. He turned off the car and closed his eyes. He

consideredspendingthenightrightthereinthetenthehadinhistrunk.Itwouldn’thave
beenthefirsttime.

He got out of the car and went over to the rocks near the edge of the shallow river.

Layingbackonacoolrock,hewatchedtheheavensforanswers.Ashootingstarcrossed
theskyoverhisheadandhemadeaquickwish.Atthispointhe’dtakeanyluckhecould
get.

Itwasn’tlongbeforeanothercarpulledintotheclearing.Hesatup.

“Colin?”Regancalledasshestoppedhercarandsteppedout.

“I’mhere,”hesaid.“I’vebeenhereforawhile.”

“Thanksformeetingme.”

Hedidn’tlikethesoundofhervoice.Shesoundedtoobusiness-like.“Areyouokay?”

“Idon’tknow,”shesaid,collapsingnexttohimontherock.

She was wearing a winter jacket and had on mittens. She was prepared for the

weather,unlikehim.He’dwornhisjeansandaPortCitysweatshirtthathe’dchangedinto
atthegasstationhe’dstoppedat.Hereachedouttouchingherwrist,betweenwhereher
jacket sleeve and mitten didn’t quite meet. Her wrist was warm. When she didn’t pull
away,hegatheredherintohisarms.

“Talktome.”

“I don’t know what’s going on. I’m so afraid we’ll grow apart and you’ll find

someoneelse.”

Heheardhervoicecrackinthedark.

“Iwon’t.Ineedyouasmuchasyouneedme.”

“But,Rebecca.Theytoldme,”shesobbed.“Theysaidyoumovedinwithher.”

Squeezing her tighter, he understood a little better why she was acting this way. “I

onlyspentthenightonhercouchbecauseIdidn’thaveanywhereelsetogo.TonightI’m
consideringmovinghere,inthetent.”

Shetookholdofhishand.“Rememberwhenwestayedouthereinthattent?”

Heheardthehappinessreturntohervoice.“Ido.Itwasagreatnight.Especiallywhen

thoseteenagersinterruptedus.”

“Theydroppedtheirbeerandranlikethey’dseenthepolice.”

“Freebeer,”hesaid,rememberinghowmuchfunthey’dhad.

“Ifellinlovewithyouthatnight.”

“Youwerealreadyinlovewithme,”hesaid,bumpingherwithhisbody.

Sheturnedtohim.“IknewIwantedtospendtherestofmylifewithyou.”Sheleaned

intohimandpaused,theirbreathminglingandmakingsteamintheairbetweenthem.He
heldstillandwaitedforwhatheknewcamenext.

Shegazedintohiseyesandatthisdistancehecouldseeherclearly.Thenshemoved

closer and her cold lips touched his. He let his breath out in a whoosh. Trying to hold
back,hekepthisarmsaroundher,notmoving,andletherleadthekiss.Herwarmtongue
snakedpasthislipsandherespondedwithhisown.

“Oh,baby.”

Shepulledback.“Wanttosetupthattent?”

Hegrinned.“Nottonight.It’sbeenabusyday.Let’sjusthangoutandtalk.Whenyou

leavetonightIwantyoutobereassured.”

“Ifeelbetter,”shesaid.“Howaboutyou?Howdidcourtgo?”

Herolledhiseyes,evenifshecouldn’tseehim.“Itwasfine.”

“Colin,”shechastisedhim.“It’sme.Tellmethetruth.”

“Ican’t.Youloveyourbrother.”

“Tellme.”

“Briantalkedandtalkedandtalked.Iwasboredoutofmymind.Plus,forthemost

part,heandhisteamhadeverywitnesstestifyinghowawfulIam.”

“What else? Is there something your lawyer can do to discredit what the lawyers

said?”

“After the session closed, I had a run in with the media. I realized that this isn’t a

game. It’s real life. Petrowinski seems to be a good lawyer, but what if he isn’t good
enough?”

Sayingallthatfeltfreeing,butscaryashell.

Sheputherarmaroundhimandsnuggledintohisneck.“Imaynotbeabletoshowit

inpublic,butknowI’mthereforyou.”

Colinhuggedhertight,drawingstrengthfromherwarmthandherdevotion.“Ilove

you,”hewhisperedintoherhair.

“We’llbeatthistogether,”shesaid.

He was elated to have her on his side. Between Rodrigo’s family doing everything

theycouldtomakeherdoubtwhatsheknewwasthetruth,andthewomenReganworked
withalsotalkingtrashtoherabouthim,itwasnowondershewasconcernedaboutwhere
theywereheaded.Itseemedlikeanever-ending,uphillbattle.

“I have that list of officers and people at the department who don’t like me.

Rememberwetalkedaboutthat?”

He pulled a piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to her. “It’s a short list. I

haven’tpissedoffalotofpeople.”

“That’snotabadthing,”shesaidwithaquietchuckle.“I’llseewhatIcando.I’vegot

togethome.Dirk’sboundtogetworriedaboutme.He’llprobablycallBrianonme.”

“Bytheway,haveyouseenthatguywho’sbeenfollowingyourecently?”

Shepushedawayfromhimandstood.“Notinthelasttwodays.Maybehe’sgivenup

onme.”

“Maybe.”

Hestoodtohelphertohercar.“I’mgladwefoundasecludedplacetomeet.Inever

thoughtaboutcominghere.”

“You’llbeokayfortonight?”

He nodded and folded her into his arms. “Don’t worry about me. Much.” He closed

the distance between them, claiming her mouth in a possessive kiss that had him
hardeningandrethinkingsettingupthetentrightthen.

Shejerkedandslappedatherface.“Bugs,”shesaid.“It’searlyforthoseblackflies.”

Kissing him quickly before slipping into her car, she left him alone in the darkness
ponderinghisfate.

~~~

ReganfoughttheurgetoturnhercararoundtoreturntoColin.Leavinghimhomeless

inthedarkwasdepressing.Especiallywhenshehadahugehousehecouldstayin.Ahuge
househehelpedpayfor.NottomentionthatPortCityhadplentyofhotelshecouldstay
in.

DamnBrianformakingDirkherbabysitter.SinceBrianwaspayinghim,hehadthe

righttoknowwhenshearrivedhomeandwhensheleft.Theconstantmonitoringgrated
onhernervesmoreandmore.Shewasanadultforgoodnesssake.

While she drove, she took out the paper Colin had given her. There were only three

names on the list. Sheila, who liked no one. Neil Waters, who’d been passed over for a
shift change that Colin got. And, Ross Torino, a captain who’d been at the department

foreveranddidn’tlikeanyofthenewerofficers.Theofficersfiguredhewasjealousofthe
youngercopswhowerestillpoundingthepavement,whilehewasstuckatadeskdoing
administrativethings.

Notastronglistofsuspects.Allhadbeenwiththedepartmentforatleastfiveyears,

hadafolderfullofcommendationsandwerewrappedupintheirownlives.Reganwasn’t
holdingoutmuchhope.

ShepulledintothedrivewaybehindDirk.

Hesteppedoutofthecar.“GoodEvening,ma’am.”

“Hi,Dirk.Anythinggoingonaroundhere?”

“No,ma’am.It’sbeenquiet.”

She thought of the note that had been slipped under her door on Dirk’s shift. “I’m

sleepy,soI’llseeyouinthemorning.”

Dirknoddedandgotbackinhiscar.

Reganpushedopenthefrontdoorandheldherbreathasshelookedaround,checking

thefloor,thewindows.Sheturnedonlightsmovingthroughthehouse.Thebackdoorwas
still locked as she’d left it this morning. Sighing in relief, she dropped her purse and
jacket,slippedoffhermittens,andcollapsedintoachairatthekitchentable.

She had barely sat down when the phone rang. She hated that she jumped when the

noisebrokethesilence.“Hello?”

“Iseverythingokaythere?Dirktoldmeyoujustgothome.Iwasworried.”

Brian. “I don’t want Dirk here anymore. I’m old enough that I don’t need a

babysitter.”

“You’renotsafe.IthoughtImadethatclear.Dirkstays.Wherehaveyoubeen?”

“Out.”

“Don’t get snippy with me,” Brian said, sounding like their foster parents had when

theywerekids.

“How did you like being at court today?” Regan knew if she distracted him with

himselfhe’ddroptheparentact.

“Itwasamazing.”

Hisdemeanorchangedthroughhisvoice.

“I was on fire. Those jurors were eating up everything I said. Colin’s going to be

destitutewhenthisisallsaidanddone.Ionlywishitwasacriminaltrialsohe’dbeinjail
andawayfromyou.I’dswitchovertobeingaprosecutorifitmeantIcouldputhisassin
jail.”

She chose to ignore the comment about Colin and had no idea how to keep Brian

pacifiedwithoutlecturinghimabouthismistreatmentandslanderingofColin.“Ionlysaw

afewminutesofthetrialandyouseemed…confident.”

“I’vegottogotobed,”shesaid,fakingayawn,whichsnowballedintoarealone.

“Youdon’tgotobedbeforeten,”Colinsaid.“Youneverdidtellmewhereyouwere.”

“Nope,andI’mnotgoingto.”

“DidyouseeColin?”heasked,outragelacinghisvoice.

“Brian,you’remybrother,myonlyfamily,Iloveyou,buttherearecertainthingsthat

Irefusetotellyouabout.WhereIwastonightisoneofthose.”

Therewassilenceontheotherendoftheline.Shewaitedhimout.

“Isee.”

Shestillrefusedtobackdown.Hewasusingsomelawyertrickhelearnedinschool,

butshewasn’tfallingforit.

“If that’s how you feel, I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Please keep away from your ex-

husband.Idon’twantyoutobethenextonetogooffthebridge.”

“Brian,”shesaid,fedup.“Goodbye.”

“Goodnight,Regan.Iloveyou.”

Shehungupandletherheadfallforwarduntilitthunkedonthetable.Shewasunsure

howshewasgoingtohandletomorrow.Brianwasactingbizarreandshewaslosinghope.

~~~

A copy of the newspaper was sitting at her station when she arrived at work blurry-

eyedanddisagreeable.

A picture of Colin was splashed across the front page. The headline screamed “Port

CityPoliceOfficerontrialforwrongfuldeath.”

“Whoputthishere?”shesaidloudlyinthenormallyquietroom.

Sheilapokedherheadabovethecubiclesandgaveheradisapprovinglook.

“Seriously.Whodidthis?Knockitoff.Iknowhe’sontrial.Leavemethehellalone.”

She choked back a sob, dropped into her high-backed chair, and buried her face in her
hands.

She peeked at the paper again. There was a black and white photo labeled Rodrigo

Ramirezhalfway through thearticle. She pickedit up to geta better look.It was a mug
shot. His hair was dark and ratted straight out from his head about six inches. His dark
eyeswerelifelessandthesmirkonhismouthgaveherthecreeps.Thiswasthepoordear
everyonewassoconcernedabout?Hewasthewonderfulsoneveryonewasmourning?

Pickingupapen,shedrewalittlemoustache,thenadmiringherhandiwork,sheadded

a goatee and then a beard. This was the man who’d ruined her well-planned life. She
rippedoutthearticleandtuckeditintoafolderthatwasmarkedforherworkonly.She
sharedthestationwithotherswhohadtheirownfolders.

When Regan started working, she focused all her energy on what she was doing. A

masked man taped up with dynamite could be standing in the room and she’d be
concernedwiththemotheronthephonewhoneededtohelpherchokingchild.

However, when the door opened and Rebecca tramped in, the hairs on the back of

Regan’s neck prickled. She swiveled toward the door. The blonde bombshell was in
uniform, packing heat. The big smile on her face made Regan liken her to a cartoon
character.

“OfficerHolmes,”Sheilasaid,runningovertothewoman.“Towhatdoweowethis

honor?”

Rebeccasaidsomethingsoquietlythateveninthesilentroom,Regancouldn’thear

whatshesaid.

Sheilasmiled,lookedinRegan’sdirection,thenglancedawayquickly.

Reganfeltherearsburn.Dammit,theyweretalkingaboutherandweren’tgoingtolet

herinonthelittlejoke?Notflinching,Regankepthergazetrainedonthetwowomen.

“I’msogladtohearthat,”Sheilasaidabitlouder.

Regan caught, “bad egg” and “good riddance.” Now she was intrigued. Had Colin

dumpedRebeccaorhadshefoundoutabouttheirescapadesatSheila’shouseandgotten
ridofColin.

“Iwantedtobetheonetotellyou,sinceyoudidwarnme,”Rebeccasaid.

The two hugged it out and Regan wanted to roll her eyes, but her phone rang,

divertingherattention.

“Youtakecare,sweetie.I’lltalktoyouafterwork.”SheilaaccompaniedRebeccato

thedoorandpattedherarmbeforeshuttingthedooronher.

Reganfocusedonhercall.“Nine-one-one,whatisyouremergency?”

“Iwanttocallinacomplaint.”

“Thisisanemergencyline.You’llneedtocallthenon-emergencynumberforthat.”

“You don’t understand. It’s about that officer that’s on trial. He was rough with me

whenhearrestedmesixmonthsago.”

“I’msorry,sir,butyou’llhavetocallbackatthenon-emergencynumber.”

“Iwanttotalktoyoursupervisor.He’lllistentome.”

Regangrittedherteeth.“No,shewon’t.Thisisanemergencynumber.”

The phone clicked off and Regan closed her eyes. She wasn’t surprised. Copycats

looking to get money from an officer or from the city would start saying they were
brutalizedbyColinaftertheyheardhewasbeingsued.

Regan pulled up a new screen on her computer. Accessing a secure part of the

departmentwebsitethattheyonlyusedforofficialbusiness,shewasinwithafewclicks.

ShetypedinColin’sname.Thefilesweredigitalandeveryoneknewtheywerethere,but
they weren’t supposed to be used for personal reasons and definitely not to scan co-
workers’histories.Herreasonwastotallypersonal.Shefeltcompelledtohelphim.Love
madeonedocrazythings,shethoughtasshewaitedforherinformation.

A file on him came into view. Glancing around to make sure she wasn’t being

watched, she opened the file and scanned it for excessive force reports in the five years
he’dbeenatthedepartment.

Six.

Shescowled.Morethanoneayear.

Usingherfinger,shescanneddownthepage.ThenameRamirezjumpedoutather.

Shereadfaster.ColinhadbeeninanaltercationwithRamirezbeforethebridgeincident
eventookplace.Sheclickedovertheincidentandanewscreencameintoview.

Colin was injured during the arrest of Ramirez. Regan read on. The report said that

ColinwaspusheddownasetofstairsinanapartmentbuildingwhereRamirezwasbuying
large quantities of drugs. She remembered Colin coming home early after being at the
emergency room for a dislocated shoulder. Wheels in her brain turned like she was a
guineapigonatreadmill.Whyhadn’tColinsaidanythingaboutthistoher?

Sheclickedoutofthesystemandlookedaroundagain.Sheilawaswatchingher,but

turnedwhenReganglancedup.

Pullinghercellphoneoutofherpocket,sheturneditonanddialed.

“Hello?”

“Hi.Ineedtoseeyou.Ihavesomequestionstoask,offtherecord.”

“Tonightatsix.I’llbringChinese.”

ShehungupbeforeSheilacouldgetalloverheraboutusingherphoneduringwork

hours.

AssoonasRegan’sshiftwasover,shehurriedtohercar.Itwasbroaddaylightand

shefeltsafe.Mostly,shewasconcernedaboutgettinghome.Shefumbledwithherkeys
lookingfortherightone.

“Excuseme,miss.Doyouhavethetime?”

Regan jumped and her heart took off at a gallop. The deep male voice sent chills

throughher.Sheturnedaround,tryingtorepositionherkeystobeusedasaweapon.

Itwashim.

“Idon’thaveawatch,”shesqueakedthroughparchedlips.

“No.Well,thanks.Haveagoodday.”

Reganwatchedhimsaunteroffuntilhewastwocarsaway.

“Oh.Youshouldbecareful.Keepaneyeonyoursurroundings,”herstalkersaidwith

achuckle,thenhekeptwalking.

Reganslumpedagainsthercar,takingdeepbreathstocalmherjanglednerves.“Holy

shit.”

That guy had balls, she’d give him that. To approach her at the department seemed

likeacrazyrisk.Therewereprobablysecuritycameras.Ifhewasgoingtohurther,then
whytalktoherthere?

She slowly lifted her keys and found the one she needed and unlocked her car.

Slippingin,sheturnedthecaronwithoutthinking.Shedidn’tlikeherreactionwhenhe
spoketoher.Sheknewhe’dseenhowfrightenedshe’dbeen.

Sowhat?Atleastshehadn’tcried.

Chapter14

Regan drove on autopilot straight to her house. Her stalker hadn’t been around in a

fewdaysandshe’dconvincedherselfthathewasn’treallyinterestedinher,itwasonlya
coincidencethatthey’dbeeninthesameplacesatthesametimes.

Herblockwasempty.Shecheckedbeforeshegotoutofhercar.Dirkhadn’tarrived

yetandnosuspiciouscarswereparkedontheroad.Shelocatedthehousekeybeforeshe
gotoutofhercarandsprintedtothehouse,fightingherdesiretolooksidetosidelikeshe
wasanervousNellie.

Reganflungthedooropenandsteppedinside.Thensheslammedthedoorandlocked

it.Sheturnedandherheartstopped.Aboutfivefeetintotheroomsatawhiteenvelope.
Shedroppedeverythingontothefloor,staringattheenvelopelikeitmightattackher.

Nowshewasafraid.

Sitting up, she pulled her cell phone from her pocket and pressed speed dial one.

“Colin?”shecroaked.

“What’swrong?”

“Ineedapoliceofficer.Ican’thandlethisonmyown.”

“I’llbethereinfive.”

The phone disconnected. She tried to pull herself together. She’d give anything to

have things the way they used to be, when the only thing she had to contemplate was
wheretogetnakedwithherhusband.

Thewailofsirensstartedfaintinthedistance,graduallygettinglouderuntiltheywere

outsideherhouse.Fromthesoundsofthings,therewereatleastthreeorfourcars.Colin
wasalwaysprepared.

“Regan,”Colincalledthroughthelockeddoor.

ThankGod.“Justasec,”shesaid.

Withafewflicksofherwrist,sheunlockedthedooranditswungopen.

Colinwasstandingontheporchwiththreeotherofficers,allofthemwiththeirguns

drawn.

“Isthereanyonehere?”heasked.

“No.”Shelungedintohisarms.Tohellwithpropriety.Thedivorcewastheleastof

herconcerns.

Heholsteredhisweaponandengulfedherinatighthug.Itfeltwonderfullyreassuring

andshedidn’twanttoseparatefromhim.

Hetriedtosetherawayfromhimwithhishandonherupperarms.“Regan.Whatthe

hell’sgoingon?Ithoughtyouwereindanger.”

Shelookedupathim,thenovertotheenvelopestillsittingonthefloor.

“Theletter?”

Nodding, she turned her head back into the hardness of his shoulder. His vest was

harderandlesspliablethenhismuscularchest.“Youwereworking?”

“Yes.That’swhywegotheresofast.”

Reganfelthisheadmoveasanofficerenteredthehouse.Afterputtingonbluegloves,

hepickeduptheenvelope.

“Therearenomarksonit,”theofficershe’dneverseenbeforesaid.

“Openit,”Colinordered.

Theofficerslippedhisfingerundertheflapandtoretheenvelopeopen.Carefully,like

it was the Declaration of Independence, he slipped the card out. It was a five-by-seven
pieceofcardstock,differentthantheotherlettershe’dreceived.

“Whatdoesitsay?”Colinasked.

“Youareinvitedtoafiftiethbirthdaypartyforyourneighbor.”

“What?” Regan demanded, stalking over to the startled officer, who handed her the

card.

She read, “‘Norma Taylor invites you to a fiftieth birthday party for her husband,

Bob.’”Regancrushedthecard,thenthrewitacrosstheroomlikeshewasamajorleague
pitcherandlookedbackatColin.

“Weneedtotalk,”hesaid.

Shenoddedandwentintothekitchentositatthetable.Colingesturedtotheothersto

leave,thenhefollowedherdeeperintothehouse.Heopenedtherefrigerator,pulledouta
soda,poppedthetop,andsetitinfrontofRegan.

“What’sgoingonwithyou?”

“I’msosorry.Ididn’tmeantocallyouatwork.”Sheglancedupathimandnoticed

forthefirsttimesincehe’dbeenathomethenavyofhisuniform,theheavy-dutybeltand
the silver badge over his heart. His hair hadn’t been cut in a while. It was longer than
usual,theblondlockscurlingaroundhisears.

“Whydidtheletteronthefloorcauseyoutopanic?”

She dropped her head into her hands. Telling him about the letter would mean she

couldn’thandlethingsonherown,andshewantedtobeindependent.Shehadn’tneeded
peoplelookingoutforher,exceptmaybeBrianandevennow,thatwasirkingher.

Makinguphermindquickly,shetoldhimaboutthefirstletter.

“Dirk was here the whole time. I don’t know how someone got to the front door to

slideitunder.”

“Doyouhavetheletter?”

Sheshookherhead.“Iburneditoverthesink.”

“Ofcourseyoudid.DidIteachyounothing?”Hechastisedher,butwithasmile.“I

thinkyou’llbefine.Nooneisouttogetyou.”

“Iwasneverlikethisbefore.Youdidthistome,”shesaid,pointingafingerintohis

hardchest.“And,you’rewrong.Thatguythat’sbeenfollowingme?Hespoketometoday
atthestation.Heaskedmethetime.”

Colindroppedhischintolookather,disbeliefonhisface.“Someoneaskedyouthe

timeandyouthinkit’saconspiracy?”

“ItwasthesameguyI’veseenaround.”

“Alotofpeopleruninthesamecircles.”

“You don’t have to believe me, but some day, if I don’t show up for work, please

checkthevideofeedsandgettheguy.”Reganslidherchairback,butdidn’tstand.

Colin touched her arm. Sparks radiated up her arm and flared to life through her

wholebody.Itfeltlikeshewasbeingburnedbyhistouch,butshecouldn’tpullaway.

“Nowwho’sthedramaqueen?”

“Onekiss?”sheasked,ignoringthejabandconcentratingontheacheinherchestand

thetinglingbetweenherthighs.

Hesatback.“What?”

“Justone.We’realone.”Shethreadedherhandthroughhishair.Onceherhandwas

behind his head, she pushed against him, moving closer. The time between when she
started moving his head and her lips to when they touched was excruciatingly long. But
totallyworthit.Shemovedherchairclosertohimasshefeltthestarchkeepinghiscollar
straight,thenherhandmoveddownhisside,whereshecouldfeeltheridgeofthebullet-
proof vest front and back. Her lips touched his and she melted. Soft, warm, and pliable,
shestartedslowandsensual,teasinghimkissingandretreating.Shefelthiswarmbreath
onhermouth.Hewasbreathingfasterandgivingbackexactlywhatshewanted.

Hestood.Hisarmscamearoundherandhemovedherfromthechairtothetable.He

stoodbetweenherlegs,hiserectionpushedagainsttheflyofhisBDUpants.Shecould
feelhimthrobbingagainsther.

Herbreastspressedintothevest,frustratingherthatshecouldn’tfeelhiswarmbody

againsthers.Hesmelledexactlythewaysheremembered,muskywithahintofsomething
thatwasallColin.Shealsoknewthatifshelickedattheskinunderhisvest,he’dbesalty.
Her eyes closed, letting the sensations and memories wash over her aroused body. She
wasn’tasafraidanymore,knowingthathewastheretoprotecther.

Histeethnibbledherliphe’dsuckedinsidehismouth.Shesmiledunderhiskiss.

“That’s some kiss, Officer Rourke. I may need more assistance later,” she said,

wigglinghereyebrowsathimsuggestively.

“It’soneoftheservicesIprovide.”Hewaggledhisbrowsather.

“You’regoodatyourjob.”Shekissedhimagain,refusingtolethimleave.

Hisradiocrackled.“Dispatchtofour-seventeen.”

He stepped back, and she swayed with him. Holding her in place with one hand, he

pushedthebuttonandspoke.“Goahead,Dispatch.”

“ArobberyinprocessatFirstMaineBank.Pleaserespond.”

“I’monmyway,”hesaid.

“No, you have to come back to cover the desk so your replacement can go,” the

dispatchersaid.

Colin hung up. “Son of a bitch,” he said. “I hate this crap. Duty calls.” Tipping his

imaginaryhat,helefthersittingonthetable,pantingafterhim,butmuchcalmer.

~~~

“Four-seventeen en route to the station,” Colin said into his mic. It burned his craw

thathehadtogotothestationsosomeotherofficercouldgodotherealpolicework.He
wasaglorifiedsecretary.Thiswasnotwhyhewenttothepoliceacademy.

Fighting injustice and making sure that the regular guys in Port City could live

comfortablywaswhyhehadgonetothepoliceacademy.Growingup,he’dbeensheltered
byhisparents.They’dlovedhimandsmotheredhimwithattention,sowhenhewentto
college,hedidn’tknowwhatitwaslikeintherealworld.Hewasn’tnaïve.Heknewthere
were drugs and that not everyone had an easy life, but seeing those things and their
consequencesupclosewaseyeopening.

When his roommate was accused of raping a girl at a party one winter night, Colin

sawinjusticeupcloseandpersonalandpromisedthatifhecouldhelp,hewouldn’tallow
peopletobewrongfullyaccusedandwouldn’tallowcriminalstowalkthestreets.

Hisroommatehadbrokenupwiththegirlandshewasangrywithhim.Sheexplained

laterthataccusinghimseemedlikeagoodwaytogethimbackfordumpingher.Ruining
hislifehadn’tbeenonhermind,butshehadcausedsuchanoverwhelmingamountofshit
forhisfriendthathisfriendjumpedoffabridgeintoagully,killinghimself.

Thesimilaritiesbetweenthateventandwhathewasgoingthroughnowdidn’tescape

him.He,unlikehisroommate,wasnotabouttojumpoffabridgeorthrowsomeoneelse
offone.

Hejammedonhisbrakesintheparkinggarage.Inside,heglaredattheofficerhewas

replacing.Someyoungpunk.

“It’snotmyfaultman,”hesaid,hishandsup.

“Iknow.Justgetoutofhere.”Colincollapsedintothechair.

“Isyourex-wifeokay?”Kimasked,watchinghim.

Helookedupather.“Yeah.Justdramafromthecivilcase.”

“Howcomeyou’reworkingtoday,anyway?It’sSunday.”

“They offered me overtime, and I thought I’d be out on the streets. Instead I’m

trappedhereagain,nooffense.”

“Nonetaken.IwouldhavestayedtheheckawayfromhereifIwereyou.Themedia

hadclipsofyoucomingoutofcourttheotherday.Youlookedlikedeathwarmedover.”

Heleanedbackinthechair.“Gee,thanks.”Thebankrobberywasafalsealarmthat

wastakencareofquickly,whichpleasedColin.Atleasthewasn’tmissingexcitingcalls.

Standing, he tried to stretch his back muscles. He’d been sleeping in a tent on the

groundneartheriverwherehe’dmeetReganthatnight.Itwasanotherreasonheagreedto
worktoday.Beinginsideatthestationwasbetterthanhangingaroundinthetentorhis
car,andhecouldusetheshowersinthelockerroom.Heprobablycouldgetahotelroom,
but the expense seemed unnecessary when he had a perfectly good tent. He cracked his
back.

Regan’scallhadscaredthehelloutofhim.He’dbarelyhadtimetofindsomeoneto

takehisplaceattheinformationdeskbeforehedrovetoher,sirensblaring.Heprobably
should have gotten a little more information before getting there, but all he could think
about was Regan, alone, defenseless, and scared. Once he got there, his relief turned to
passionwithhersimple,butpassionatequestion.

He’dbeenhardinaninstant,andifhehadn’tbeenworking,hewouldhavetakenher

upstairs,maybe.Thewayhewasfeeling,theyprobablywouldn’thavemadeitalltheway
totheirbigbedatthetopofthestairs.God,hewantedher,neededher,desiredher.Hehad
tofigureoutawaytogetpastDirk.

Chapter15

Thedoorbellchimedatexactlysixo’clockinthequiethouse.

“Right on time,” Regan said, standing and going to get the door for Brian. She’d

changedintosweatsandateeshirtsansbratobecomfortable.ItwasBrian,afterall.

“Youlook…comfortable,”hesaid,pushingpastherwiththreebrownbagsoffood.

“Ididn’tknowwhatyouwanted,soIorderedalittlebitofeverything.”

“Youdidn’thavetobringdinner,”shesaid,shuttingthedoorbehindhim.

Hetookover,goingrightintothelivingroomandplacedsmalltake-outboxesaround

thecoffeetable.“ItoldyouIwould.”

Herstomachgrowledatthearomafloatingaroundtheroom.Betweenthehungerand

nerves,shethoughtshemightpuke.“Iwantedtotalktoyouaboutsomethingtodowith
Colin’scase.Offtherecord.Asmybrother.”

“You know I’m here for you,” he said, smiling. He stopped scooping food onto his

plate.

Regantookadeepbreath.Howwasshegoingtoaskthis?Shesighed.“Ilookedup

Colin’srecordatthepolicedepartment.”

“You’renotsupposedtodothat,areyou?”

Sheshookherhead.

“Whatdidyoufind?”

“Colinhashadsixexcessiveforcecomplaintsfiledagainsthim,whichIthinkispretty

normalforanofficer,”sheadded,quickly.Herpalmsstartedtosweat.

“ColinknewRamirezbeforethatnightonthebridge,”shesaid.“Didyouknowthat?”

Brianlistened,butdidn’trespond.Shetookthatasano.

“RamirezwasbuyingdrugsandColintriedtostophimandarresthim.”

“Ineverclaimedmyclientwasanaltarboy.”Brianleanedbackagainstthecouch,his

foodforgotten.“Goon.”

“So my question is, could someone be using that information to frame him for

Ramirez’sdeath?Howwelldoyouknowyourclients?”

“Prettywell.We’vebeenspendingalotoftimetogetherpreparingforthetrial.”

“Didtheysayanythingabouttheirsonhavingacriminalbackground?”

“NotthatIknowof,butI’lllookintoit,”Briansaidoff-handedlybeforehestabbed

hisforkintothelomeinandstartedeating.“Ithoughtwe’dtalkedaboutyoustayingout
ofthis?”

“No.Youtoldmewhattodo,andIrefusedtolisten.”

“You’regoingtogetintoalotoftroubleifyoukeepthisup.”

Sheshrugged.“That’swhatIhavemybabysitterfor.”Shegesturedoutthewindowto

whereDirkwassittinginhisdarkcar.Someonemusthavetoldhimthatlightedcarsmake
easytargets.

“Dirkishereatmyrequest.Iwantyousaferegardlessofwhathappens.”

Sheshookherhead.“Whathappenswithwhat?”

“Nothing,”hesaid,shovinganotherloadedforkinhismouth.

Feelinglikeshedidn’thaveallthepiecestoapuzzlemadeherangry.Sheskewered

somefoodanddumpeditontoherplatebeforegoingbackforanotherspearoffood.

“Areyouokay?”Brianasked.

“No.Notreally.You’retickingmeoff.I’mnotsomefrailflowerwhocan’tstandup

in a strong wind. No one has the right to tell me what to do. I’ve been making my own
decisionssinceIwassixteenyearsold.Idon’tneedyouoranyoneelsetellingmewhatis
inmybestinterest.”Shewasyellingatthispoint.

Brianputhisplatedown,stood,andblockedthepathshewaspacing.Puttinghisarms

aroundher,hetriedtopullhertohim.Sheremainedimmobileandfrozenwhereshewas.
Shedidn’twantthis.“Leavemealone,Brian.”

Swayingalittle,almostlikehewastryingtogethertodancewithhim,heleanedover

her and kissed her forehead. She tried to pull away. What she really wanted to do was
wipeofftheslobberykiss.

“I’mhere,always.”Hedroppedhisarmsandwentbacktohisfood.

Regan didn’t move. Her shoulders were still bunched up around her ears, and her

knuckles were almost white from clenching them so hard. She was furious at Brian and
how he was treating Colin, but there was no way she could say anything without Brian
flippingoutonher.Shehadastrangefeelingitwouldbeabadidea.

~~~

The courtroom was stuffy again. Colin tugged at his collared uniform shirt. Today

witnesses were being called and Petrowinski hadn’t told him whom he was calling or
whomBrianwascallingforthatmatter.

Thejudgehadn’tenteredthecourtroomyet,andBrianwasn’tsittingathistable,his

cockysmileinplace.“What’sgoingon?”Colinasked,glancingdownathiswatch.Nine-
fifteen.

Petrowinskishrugged.

“Don’tyouthinkyououghttofindout?”

Justthen,thebackdoorsopenedandBriansaunteredin,hisshit-eatinggrinplastered

tohisface.BehindhimwastheInternalAffairsofficerfromthedepartment.Colindidn’t

particularlylikethecombinationofthetwo.

PetrowinskistoodandsteppedintoBrian’spath.“What’sgoingon?”

“Anewwitness,”Brianstated,alittlelifttohisvoice.“I’vealreadyspokenwiththe

judge, and he agreed to hear him in light of certain news that was brought to my
attention.”

Thejudgeenteredthecourtandeveryonestood.“Pleasebeseated.Theplaintiffswill

calltheirfirstwitness.”

“I call Sergeant David Watts.” Brian stepped forward and opened the little swinging

doorsthatledtothefrontofthecourtroom.

Colin tried to catch Sergeant Watts’s eye, hoping for some form of support or

encouragement. Nothing. Even once he was seated next to the judge he didn’t look in
Colin’s direction. A sinking feeling took up residence in his stomach. He tugged at his
collaragain.

Every officer went through court training at some point, learning to keep answers

succinctandtoonlyanswerthedirectquestions.Nosidetripsandno‘remember-when’s.
Colinprayedthatthesergeantwouldrememberthat.

“Sergeant,pleasetellthejurywhatyoudoatthePortCityPoliceDepartment.”

“I’minchargeoftheInternalAffairsDivision.I’vebeendoingitforthreeyears.”

“AreyoufamiliarwithOfficerColinRourke?”

“Iam.”

“Haveyouspokenwithhimaboutthiscase?”

“Ihave.”

“How many excessive force complaints have been reported about Officer Rourke?”

BrianspuninahalfcircletolookatColin.

ColinthoughthesawBrian’seyetwitch.

“Six.”

“Sixcomplaintsinthefiveyearshe’sbeenapoliceofficer.Hmm.Isthatnormal?”

“FortheshiftsthatOfficerRourkeworks,itis.”

“Thecomplaints,weretheybythesameperson?”

“No.”

“Canyoutellusifanyofthosehaveanyrelevancetothiscase?”

Sergeant Watts sighed. “Yes and yes. One of the complaints was filed by Rodrigo

Ramirez.”

Therewasanaudiblegaspinthecourt.

Colinsnappedhisgazetothejurytogaugehowtheyweretakingthenews.Notgood.

Manywereleaningforward.Somelookedsurprisedwiththeirmouthsinlittle‘O’s.

Yes, he’d had a history with Ramirez, but that didn’t mean he killed him. Colin

frowned.HowhadBrianfoundout?

Colin remembered the night well. Even now, when the weather was bad, he had the

symptoms in his shoulder to remind him. He’d done nothing wrong, but Ramirez had
come in, declaring he would own the police department after this abuse. Nothing had
comeofhiscomplaintbecauseRamirezhadbeenbuyingdrugsatthetimeandhadbeen
using on his way to the county jail. Ending in jail himself, charged with misdemeanor
possession.

“Howinteresting,”Briansaid,lookingfromPetrowinskitoColinandback.“Canyou

tellusthenatureoftheincident?”

“OfficerRourkesprayedthemanwithpeppersprayandthentheyfelldownaflightof

stairs.”

“Wasanyoneinjured?”Brianasked,soundingsympathetic.

Colinknewhedidn’tgiveashit.

“Yes. Officer Rourke hurt his shoulder and Ramirez suffered a broken rib and some

bruises.”

“Thankyouforyourcooperation,”Briantoldthemanthensatdown.“Yourwitness.”

“Sergeant Watts. Tell us about excessive force reports.” Petrowinski stood and

saunteredovertothebench.

“They are generated when an officer uses his stick, Taser, pepper spray, or his duty

weapon.”

“Isitunusualforanofficertohavethese?”

“Notatall.It’spartofthejob.”

“Doofficersseethesamepeopleonthestreetsduringtheirshift?”

WhatwasPetrowinskigettingat?

“Officers usually arrest the same people time and time again. Homeless people and

suspected drug dealers and buyers are always on the radar, so I’m not surprised that
OfficerRourkehadpreviouscontactwithRamirez.Manyofficerswouldtellyouthey’ve
hadrun-inswithhimaswell.”

“Thankyou,Sergeant.”

Petrowinski sat down. From under his eyelids, Colin tried to see what kind of

impression the cross examination had. The jury for the most part had sat back in their
chairsanduncrossedtheirarms.Colinbreathedasighofrelief.

Colin listened as other officers were called to talk about him and his demeanor

surrounding the event in question. No one seemed to remember anything out of the
ordinary.Ofcoursenot.Atthatpointeverythingwasgoinggreatinmylife.

The doors at the back of the courtroom opened again. Every time that happened, a

whooshofairenteredtheroomandalmosteveryheadturned.Jackenteredinuniforma
scowlonhisface.HemadedirecteyecontactwithColinandthentransferredhisscowlto
Brian.

Ohshit.

Colinhadn’ttalkedtoJacksincehemovedoutafewdaysago.Therewasnoneed.It

wasn’tliketheyweregirlsneedingtodiscusseverymomentofeveryday.

Jacktookthestand.Hefilledthespacenexttothejudge.

Brianstoodandgreetedhim,somethinghehadn’tdonetotheotherofficers.“Officer

Geib?”

“Yes,”Jacksaidthroughgrittedteeth.

“Thank you for joining us. We have been talking to other officers, but you have a

differentrelationshipwiththedefendant,correct?”

“Isupposeso.”JackglancedoveratColin.

“Pleasetellusaboutyourrelationship.”

“We’refriends.IlivedwithColinandhiswifeaftermydivorce.Colinlivedwithme

afterhisdivorce.”

“HaveyoueverseenOfficerRourkebeviolent?”

Thatleadingbastard,Colinthought.Whowasfeedinghimthisinformation?Heknew

whototalktoandwhatquestionstoask.SOB.

“Once.”

“Onlyonetimeinthefiveyearsyou’vebeenfriends?”

“Onceoutsideofwork.”

“Canyouelaborateonthat?”

“No.Idon’tseewhythat’srelevant.Ithadnothingtodowithworkorthiscase.”

“Officer Geib, it’s up to me to decide what’s relevant to this case. I wouldn’t have

askedthequestionifitdidn’tmatter.”

Thejudgecoughed.“IthinkIdecideifthequestionisrelevant.Inthiscase,I’dliketo

hearhowthedefendanthandlesconflict.”

Briangavethejudgeabriefsmile.“OfficerGeib?Whathappenedwhenyourfriend

gotviolent?”

Jack looked at Colin giving him a ‘sorry, buddy’ look. Colin shrugged. Nothing he

coulddoaboutitnow.

“IhadbeenonadatewithColin’sex-wife.Ididn’ttellhimthatIwasgoingoutwith

her.Whenhefoundout,hedeckedme.Ideservedit.”

“OfficerRourkepunchedyoubecauseyouwentonadatewithhisex-wife?”

“Right.”

“Didhetrytotalktoyouaboutit?”

“After.Ithinkhefeltbad.”

“Itdoesn’tmatterwhatyouthink,OfficerGeib.”

Jack’sfrownincreased.BrianwasskirtingtheedgewithJack.

“WouldyoutrustOfficerRourketodotherightthingatanygiventime?”Brianasked.

Jackdidn’tanswerrightaway.HelookedfromBriantothejudgeandthenfinallyto

Colin.HisgazeneverleftColin’sface.“Iwouldtakeabulletforhim.Yes.Ithinkhe’sone
ofthegoodguys.”

Colin blew out a breath and sagged back in his seat for a second. He might make it

throughthisafterall.

~~~

ReganhadjuststeppedintothecourtroomwhenJacktookthestand.Hedidn’tseeher

and she snuck into the back seats out of his view. When he announced that Colin had
punchedhim,shewasshocked.ItwassounlikeColin.Sure,atworkhemightroughbad
guysup,butotherthanthat,she’dneverheardofaninstancewherehepunchedsomeone,
and his best friend? Not wanting to be seen, she hunkered down as Jack left the
courtroom,

Nooneinthefrontoftheroomwassmiling,exceptforherbrother.Werethingsgoing

thatpoorlyforColin?ThatwellforBrian?

Sheleftthecourthouseoncethetrialwasoverfortheday.Itwasjustgettingdarkand

prickles of fear cascaded across her shoulders. Lifting her head, her hair blowing in the
breeze,shestrodetohercarwithconfidenceshedidn’tfeel.

“Doyouhavethetime?”avoiceaskedfrombehindher.

She spun around to confront the creepy guy who’d asked her that only a day ago.

“No,”shesaidsharply.

He wasn’t her stalker. The man was wearing three layers of torn and tattered coats,

and gloves with holes in the fingers. A shopping cart filled with returnable bottles and
cansstoodthereexpectantly.

“I’msorry.Ithinkit’saroundfive.”

“Thanks.Ihavetogetthesetotheredemptionplacebeforefive-thirty.Theygiveme

sixcentspercan.”

Regansmiledatthemanandturnedbacktowardhercar.Onestepandshesmashed

intoawarmbody.“Oh,sorry,”shestarted,thenshesawwhoitwasandfroze.

“Hello,Regan,”herstalkersaid.“Wanttogoforalittledrive?”

“Nochanceinhell,”shesaid,graspingherpursetightly.

He held on to her upper arms to steady her or to keep her from getting away, she

wasn’tsure.“Whatdoyouwantfromme?”shedemanded.

“Whateverymanwants.Achance.”

Todayhehadonanavy-blueshirtandjeansthatlookednewbutweretightacrosshis

thighs.Hisformerlygreasyhairhadbeencombed,butwasmessyfromthewindandhis
breathwasminty-fresh.Hewasn’tthesameslobshe’dseenthatdayatthegrocerystore.

“Whoareyou?”

“I’m sorry I never introduced myself. I’m Joe Monty.” He didn’t try to shake her

hand.Infact,hedidn’tmovehishandsfromherarms.

Shecrossedherarmsoverherchest,stillnotdislodginghim.“Ithinkit’stimeforyou

totakeyourhandsoffme.”

“Ican’tdothat.Ican’thaveyourunningaway.”

Shesuckedinabreath.Herheartpoundedandherheadwasswimmingwithwhat-ifs.

Itwasgettingdarkerbytheminute.Shetriedtolookaroundtoseeifanyonewasnearby,
butitwaslikethestreetsgobbledeveryoneupdespitethefactthatcourthadjustgotten
out.

“You’vebeentrickytofollow.”

“Thenstop,”shespat.

“Ican’tdothat.Myemployerwouldbedispleased.Iknowyou’vebeenmeetingwith

yourex-husband,andIwanttoknowwhyandwhere.”

Shesteppedbackafewsteps,tryingtogetaway.Hesteppedforward,handsstillon

herarms,followingher.

“Whatdoyouwantfromme?”

“Iwanttoknowwhenyou’remeetingwithyourhusbandagain.”

“It’s none of your business. We’re done here.” With a quick circle of her arms, she

broke free, brushed her hair away from her face, and spun around to head back to the
courthouse.Shetriedtosneakapeekoverhershouldertoseeifhewasfollowingher,but
hewasn’t.

Onceinsidethecourthouse,sheslumpedagainstahardmarblewall.

“Ma’am,areyouallright?”

She opened her eyes, unaware she’d closed them. She fingered the hammer she’d

started carrying in her bag for safety. “There was a man in the parking lot who grabbed
me.”

Theuniformedofficerwenttothedoor.“Idon’tseeanyone.”

“I’msurehe’sgonebynow,buthewasthere.”

“Doyouwantmetocallthepolice?”

Sheshookherhead.Theyweren’tgoingtodoanythingforher.“Canyoutakemeto

mycar?”

Henoddedandopenedthedoorforher.

Sittingathomelaterthatevening,shekickedherselffornotmakinghimexplainwhy

hewasfollowingherandwhohisemployerwas.Sheshouldhavedemandedthathetell
her.Alightbulbwentoninherhead,andshewenttohercomputerandsearchedforJoe
Monty.

There were a few hits and she clicked on the first link. The homepage was for a

privateinvestigatorinPortCity.Sheworkedthemouse,tryingtofindapictureofthePI,
buttherewasn’tone.

Shewenttothenextwebsite.TherewasnopictureontheFacebookpage.Atleasthe

wasn’taRamirezrelativetryingtokillherorexactsomekindofrevenge.Reliefflooded
through her. Someone had hired him to follow her, and she was determined to find out
who.

She pulled out her cell phone and dialed. “Colin?” she asked when he answered his

phone.

“Yeah?”

“Hi,” she said, smiling because she knew the sound of Colin’s voice when he was

sleeping.Thatmancouldsleepstandingup,andhecouldn’thavebeeninbedmorethan
tenminutes.“Sorrytowakeyou.”

“No.Iwasjustresting.Itwasahecticdaysittingaroundlisteningtopeopletalkabout

me.”

“You know my stalker?” She waited until her words registered with him. “He’s a

privateinvestigator.Someone’shiredhimtofollowme.”

“Howdoyouknow?”Colinsoundedalertnow.

“Hetriedtograbmeintheparkinglotatthecourthousetoday.Thedumbasstoldme

hisname,andI’vealreadysearchedforhimonline.”

“Goodthinking.Whoisit?MaybeIknowhim.”

“JoeMonty.”

Colinmadeanoiselikehewaschoking.“He’sarealwinner.I’vecrossedpathswith

himbefore.Whoeverispayinghimisonlydoingitasalastresort.NoonegoestoMonty
unlesshe’sexhaustedalltheotheroptions.”

“Bottomfeeder,huh?”

“Exactly,”Colinsaidwithachuckle.HelikeditwhenReganusedtermshe’dusedat

home.

“Hewasinterestedinwhenwemetandwherewemet.Whatdoyoumakeofthat?”

“Idon’tknow,butI’mgoingtofindout.”

Chapter16

Colin didn’t waste any time getting into his uniform, hooking on his duty belt, and

driving over to Joe Monty’s office in a rundown section of the city. He turned onto
Monty’s street. Half of the windows on the street were boarded up, and the other half
lookedliketheyhadn’tbeencleanedsincetheywerebuiltinthefifties.Pullingupinfront
oftheoffice,Colinzeroedinonthedarkalleytotherightofthebuildingandagroupof
menloiteringaroundthestreetcorneronehundredfeetaway.

Hesteppedoutofhiscar,checkinghisweaponandwatchingthemenandthealley.

Hedidn’tknowifMontywouldtrytoescapeoutthebackwhenhesawacop.Themen
musthaveguessedhewasacopfromtheuniform,andwithinsecondsthey’ddispersed.

“Monty, open up.” Colin pounded on the glass door with his fist. “I know you’re in

there.You’reinterestedinme.Well,hereIam.”

AlightturnedoninthebackroomandthenMontypokedhispudgyfaceoutofthe

insideoffice.“Whatdoyouwant?”

“Nothing. It’s you who wants something.” Colin smiled non-threateningly and

motionedforMontytoopenthedoor.

Reluctantly,thegreasymanslitheredacrosstheofficespaceinbarefeet,andnoshirt.

“AmIinterruptingsomething?”

“No.Whatdoyouwant?”Montyasked,openingthedoorandgesturinginside.

Colin went in. The office was small, a desk in one corner and a pleather couch in

anothercorner.Boxesandpaperscoveredeveryavailablesurface.“Niceplaceyouhave
here.”

“Iknowit’sadump.Whoareyou?”

“You don’t know?” Colin asked, leaning closer to the man, his silver name tag

hangingfromhisuniformtop.

“Rourke?AsinReganRourke?Areyoutheex-husband?”

SoMontydidn’tevenknowhisname?Whatthehellwasgoingon?“Yep.That’sme.

Iheardyouwerelookingforme.”

Montybackedupastep,slowly,likehedidn’twanttoangerhim.Colinnarrowedhis

gazeattheman.“So,Monty.Whatdoyouwantfrommyex-wife?”

“Nothing.”

“Whohiredyou?”

“Ican’ttellyouthat.”He’dbackedhimselfalmosttothewallonlyafewstepsfrom

thebackoffice.

“Comeon,Monty,”Colinsaid,saunteringacrosstheroom,makingsurehisdutybelt

remainedinMonty’sviewthewholetime.“Youhavetotellme.Nooptions.You’vebeen
terrorizinganinnocentvictimandthat’sacrime.”

“No,itain’t.Ididn’tdonothing.”

“Whohiredyou?”Colinasked,standingtwofeetfromhim,blockingtheentranceto

theoffice.ColinhadaboutafootonJoeinheight,eventhoughtheyprobablyweighedthe
sameamount.“Who.Hired.You?”

“I’mnotsupposedtotell.”

“Let’sstopthisgame.I’llaskthequestiononemoretimeandyou’llanswerme.Who.

Hired.You?”

“Bainbridgewashislastname.Hepaidincash.”

“Thatwaseasy,wasn’tit?”

Montytwitched.

Colin started to get a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. Brian’s last name was

Bainbridge, but there had to be more of them in Port City. Still, he didn’t believe in
coincidence.

“Whatwashisfirstname?”

“Igaveyouinfo,man.Leavemebe.”

“Monty,”Colinsaidmenacingly.

“Brian Bainbridge. He said he was looking after his sister because she was in some

seriousshit,andheneededtokeepyoutwoawayfromoneanother.Hewantedpicturesof
youtwotogether,butIcouldn’tgetany.Iswear.Idon’thavenone.”

“Whywouldhewant…?Shit,”Colinsaid.Brianknewtheyhadonlygottendivorced

forthetrial.

Regan was so damn trusting of her non-brother, that she’d told him what they were

doing.Now,hewastryingtogetthegoodsonthem.Colin’sfirstinclinationwastorushto
Brian’shouseandshowhimhowdangeroushecouldbe,butknowingthatwouldonlyget
himinmoretroublewiththecourt,herepressedtheurge.

Hepulledabusinesscardoutofawallethehadinhisbackpocketandhandeditto

Monty.“Callmeifyourememberanythingelse.Ialsoexpectthatyouwon’tbehanging
aroundRegananymore.”

Themannoddedvigorously,takingthecard.

Colinbackedoutoftheofficeandontothedarkstreet.

Regan,who’dhadtrustissuessinceherparents’death,hadchosentoputallhertrust

inamanwho,undertheguiseofprotection,wasouttoruinher.ItmadeColinsick.His
secondthoughtwastogotoReganandtellherwhathe’dfoundout,buthowcouldhe?
Rightnow,Brianwastheonlypersonshehadtoconfidein.Andassickasthatwas,he

didn’twanttocauseherpain.Plus,whoknewwhatBrianandhisteamwoulddotohimin
courtifhewastorevealthatBrianhadhisownsisterstalkedbyacreep?

Colinknewhishandswere,figuratively,securedwithhandcuffsandhedidn’thavea

key.Sincehewasn’tworking,hedrovearoundaimlessly,lookingforagoodplacetohole
upforthenight.Heconsideredgoingbacktotheclearingbytheriver,butthenumberof
bugbiteshe’dacquiredwerestartingtocausecuriouslooksinthelockerroom.

Hepulledthecarintoasmall,cleanmotelhe’donlybeencalledtoafewtimeswhile

on duty. The owners were pleasant and the rooms were usually clean before the tenants
movedin.Hecheckedin,receivingadiscountbecauseofhisuniform.Itwaslesslikely
therewouldbetroubleifacopwasstayingonthepremisesandtheownersknewthat.

Once in the utilitarian room, he stripped his uniform down to his boxer briefs. He

dialedRegan.“Heythere,”hesaid,hisvoicedeepandthroaty.

“Ididn’texpecttohearfromyouagaintonight.”

“Areyouinbed?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Whatareyouwearing?”heasked,alreadyforgettingthereasonhe’dcalled.

“Flannelpajamas,withcurlersinmyhairandamudmask.”

Hegroaned.“Youdon’townflannelpajamas,andbesidesyouwouldn’twantmudon

thesheetsandcurlers.”

“Well, Detective, you’ve figured me out. I’m not wearing anything. No pajamas, no

curlers,andnomud.Justmeandtheclean,crispsheets.”

Hegroanedagain,butthistimeitwasbornoutofneed.

“Whereareyou?”

“AtthemotelonCrescentStreet.”

“Whatareyouwearing?”

“Justunderwear,butIcanremedythat.”Hehookedhishandsinthewaistbandofhis

shorts and pulled them down off his feet. “Done.” Pleasure rushed to his cock. They’d
neverhadphonesexandhedidn’tknowwhytheyhadn’tconsidereditsooner.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Reganasked,hervoicehusky.

“I’mtouchingmyself.Runningmyhandsdownovermychest,myabs…”Heheard

herbreathcatch.

“Me,too,”shesaidbreathlessly.

“Pinchyournipples.”

Shemoanedintothephone.

“Ihatenotbeingabletoseeyou.”

“I’mplayingwithmynipplesandthey’regettinghard.”

“I’m hard too, sweetheart. I’ve wrapped my hand around my hard cock. I’m

imaginingthatit’syou.Closeyoureyesandputonthespeakerphone.”Heheardtheclick.
“Better?”

“Mmm.”

“Pretend it’s my hands touching your body, your breasts to your hips and lower.

Lower.Areyoudoingit?”

“Yes,”shehissed.

“Areyouwet,readyforme?”

Therewasapause,thenawhimper.

“Touchyourclit.Rubit.”Hepulledonhiscockandsmoothedsomeofthepre-cum

overtheheadforlubrication.

“Itfeelssogood,”shesaid.

“That’sright.Putafingerinsideyou.It’sme.Touchingyou,turningyouon.”

“Itfeelssogood.”

“Areyoumovingthosesexyhipsofyours,grindingtothefeelofmepumpinginand

outofyou?”

“Yeah.”

Herbreathwascominginpantsnow.Heimaginedherwrithingonthebed,herhand

betweenherlegs,herbreastsswayingtothemotionofherhips.Hemovedhisfistfaster.

“Addanotherfinger.I’mstretchingyourpussy.Iwanttobeinsideyousobad.”

“Me,too.”

Heknewhewasclosetocoming.Thesoundsshewasmakingthroughthephonewere

enoughtogetherarrestedifsexinesswasacrime.Hishipsstartedthrusting.

“Areyoutouchingyourself?”

“I’msoclose,”shemoaned.“I…just…wait…yes…there.”

“Come,baby.Comeforme.IwanttohearwhatIdotoyou.”

“Oh.Yes.I’mcoming.”Hervoicetrailedoffasshethrashedandcalledouthisname

asshecame.

He pumped harder on his cock, his grip tightening until he too cried out into the

phone.“Yes.Regan.I’mtherewithyou,”hegroaned,cominginstrongwaves.

“Whyhaven’twebeendoingthatallalong?”shesaid,hervoiceraspybutsatiated.

“Ihavenoidea,butIthinkweshouldaddthattoourrepertoire.”

“Definitely.”

“Iwanttobetheretoholdyou,”hesaid.“Thisbigemptybedisn’tdoingitforme.”

“Iknow.Maybeitwon’tbetoolongbeforewearetogetheragain.”

Heheardabeepingnoise.“Isthatyourphone?”

“Thebatteriesaredying,Ithink.Stupiddisposablephone.”

“WhencanIseeyouagain?”heasked,desperatetoholdher,seeher,makelovetoher

inperson.

“I’mnot—”

Herphonecutoff.Colinclosedhiseyes,frustrationeatingathim.Throwingbackthe

covers,hewentintothebathroomtorunacoldshower.Eventhoughhe’dbeensatiated
for the moment, he still wanted her and he could feel his cock expanding just thinking
abouthowhotshe’dbeenonthephone.

He had to admit that their divorce of convenience was doing wonders for their

standard sex life. Now they were having phone sex, doing it in bathrooms at parties …
Whatwasnext?Hecouldn’twaittofindout.

Regan snuggled deeper into her bed. Her sex throbbed from the intense orgasm that

hadrocketedthroughher.Andasgoodashewasonthephone,itdidn’tcomeclosetosex
withColininperson.Shesighed.Shehadtodosomethingtoendthisseparation.

~~~

Reganstoppedintocourteveryday,slidingintothebackrowofseatstryingtostay

outofview.Onthethirdday,shehadthetimeoffandwatchedColin’slawyerandBrian
and his other lawyers question people and do their own version of the soft-shoe dance
while the jury watched. She tried to get a feeling about how the jury was taking all the
information.SomeglancedatColinwithobviousdisgustandtheotherslookedbored.It
didn’tbodewell.

Forthelasttwodays,amanhadjoinedherinthebackrow.Helookedfamiliar,but

she couldn’t place where she knew him from. It could just be someone she recognized
fromthegrocerystoreorthebank,thoughshedoubtedthat.

Hehaddarkhair,shavedclosetohishead.Hisgreeneyesweredarkbutshowedno

emotion.Hedidn’texhibitanysignsofbeinginterestedinthetrialoverthetwodays.No
smiling,nocoughing,nobathroombreaks,nothing.Shecouldn’tstoplookingoverathim.
Henevermoved,hisgazefocusedforward.

She tried to catch his attention. The curiosity over where she knew him from was

eatingather.Somethingniggledatthebackofherbrain.

“Excuseme,”shesaid,leaningtowardhim.

Whenhelookedather,hisblankexpressionsentachillskitteringacrossherback.

Sheswallowed.“DoIknowyoufromsomewhere?”

Heshookhisheadandwentbacktostaringstraightahead.

“Areyouherewatchingtheplaintiffsorthedefense?”

Helookedbackather.“I’mherefortheentertainment,”hesaid,givingherasmirk.

She snapped her head forward, recognition dawning. Her eyes darted from left to

right,thentriedtoboreaholeinColin’sbacksohe’dturnaround.Shewassurehehadn’t
realizedshewassittingintheback.Sheusuallyleftbeforehecouldseeher.Sheneededto
talktohim.

Atthelunchrecess,shewalkedwithapurposetowardthestation,whichwasonlya

blockaway.Shehadtogettoherfolderindispatch.Itwasthatsmirk.Surethehairwas
different,butthatgrin…Shesprintedupthethreeflightsofstairsandpausedforasecond
infrontofthedispatchdoortocalmherself.Takingadeepbreath,sheopenedthedoorto
the quiet, dark room, letting her eyes adjust and roam over the workstations. Hers was
beingused.

“CanIsneakinhere?”sheasked,pushingpastthesurprisedmantryingtodohisjob.

She grabbed her folder and quickly sorted through the information until she found the
articleshe’dclipped.

Thesmirk.Therewasnodoubt.

She’dbeensittingnexttoRodrigoRamirezfortwodays.

Colindidn’tkillhim.NowshejusthadtoprovethatRamirezwasverymuchalive.

Shedidn’tknowwheretoturnfirst,herbloodcoursingthroughherveinsandadrenaline
madeherjumpyandreadytorun.

Sheilaglaredatherfromacrosstheroom.

Taking the clipping, Regan put the folder back, thanked the dispatcher and left, her

heart thudding in her chest. She found the proof Colin had been looking for. She’d
discovereditwithouttrying.

Sheranbackintothecourtroom,glancingtoherrightatthebackrow.Hewasgone.

Searchingthefacesofthespectators,shedidn’tseehim.

“Pleasebeseated,”thedeputysaid.Thejudgewasalreadyonthebench.

“I’llheartheclosingargumentsnow.”Thejudge’svoiceboomedintheroom.

Regandidn’tknowhowcourtworkedotherthanwhatshe’dwatchedandseenonTV.

Runningtothefrontoftheroomscreaming“stopthepresses”wasn’tgoingtobelooked
uponfavorably.Shetookherseat.

Colinlookedbackandcockedhisheadtothesideasifhewereasking,“What’sgoing

onandwhyareyouhere?”

Shesmiledandwinkedathim.Itwasgoingtobeokay.

Brianstood.“ManypoliceofficersbelievetheyareGod.Theyhavetherighttotakea

lifeiftheyfeeltheyhavejustification.OfficerColinRourkeisoneofthosepolicemen.He
sought retribution for an injury sustained when he arrested poor Rodrigo Ramirez and

threwhimoffthebridgeintotheicywatersofCascoBay.Rodrigodidn’tstandachance
ofsurvival.Thevideoisproofofthecrime,andwehaveheardmanycharacterwitnesses,
includingRourke’sbestfriend,sayingthatRourkehasaviolentstreak.”Brianapproached
thejury.“ThisisaciviltrialandsincethereisnobodyforRodrigo’sfamilytobury,this
judgmentwillhavetosustainthefamilyandpunishOfficerRourke.”

Reganslumpedbackagainsttheseat.Brianmadeagoodargument,butBrian’sclients

werefrauds.Shefoughttheurgetostandupanddeclarethat“poorRodrigo”wassitting
hereincourtfortheentertainmentfactor.

ItwasColin’slawyer’sturntogivehisremarks.Reganclenchedherhandstogetherin

herlap.Colin’sbodylanguagetoldherhewasnervous.

“Ladiesandgentlemenofthejury.YourHonor.Asapoliceofficer,thedefendanthas

been trained to deal with many different circumstances. There are classes, therapy
sessions, and sporting events designed for officers to work off their aggressions and
frustrations.TherewasnoreasonforOfficerRourketoseekretribution,asthecounselput
it.Ifyoupassthisjudgmentagainsthimyouwillnotonlytakedownthisofficer,youwill,
inasense,weakenthewholePortCityPoliceDepartment.How,youask?

“Oneofficercan’tmakethatbigadifference.Yes.Hecan.Bypassingthisjudgment,

nexttimeacitizenneedsarideorthere’safightintheOldPort,theofficerwhoresponds
will be less likely to offer help. Right or wrong, in the back of his mind, he will be
concerned whether he, too, will lose everything he values—his wife, his career, and his
assets. Officer Rourke is a good officer and a credit to the Port City Police Department.
Pleasemaketherightdecision.”

Petrowinskisatdown,steeplinghishandsonhiswhitenotepad.

Thejudgesmiledatthejurors.Hereadthemalistofinstructionsonhowtodeliberate

andaskedthedeputytoescortthemoutofthecourtroom.

“Thank for your time, counselors. Jurors will now adjourn to the anti-chamber to

maketheirdecision.”

As soon as the judge left, Regan wove her way through the crowd leaving the

courtroomtoreachthefront.“Colin,”shesaid,interruptinghimtalkingwithhislawyer.

“Ifoundit.”

“What?”

“Thekey.Ifoundit.”

Colinexcusedhimselffromhislawyerandturnedhisfullattentiontoher.“Thecase

isover.Thejuryisouttodecidemyfate.Ourfate.”

Chapter17

Reganhesitated.TellingColinwasthemostimportantthingatthatmoment.“Ineed

tospeakwithyou,inprivate.Petrowinskicancometoo.”

“Weshouldstickaroundforawhile,”Petrowinskisaid.

“Ineedtousethefacilities,”Colinstatedfirmly.

“Fine,”thelawyersaid,rollinghiseyes.“Youtwogo,butgetbackherequickly.”

Notwantingtodrawmoreattention,Reganswitchedsidesofthecourtroomandspoke

toBrianwhileColinleft.

“Niceclosingstatement,”shetoldBrian.

“Ofcourse.Whattimedoyouwantmetocomeovertonighttocelebrate?”

“Celebratewhat?”

“Mewinningthecase.”Hegavehera‘duh’look.

“It’snotoveryet,”shesaid.“Overconfidencecanruinaman.”

“Notthisone.I’llbetherearoundseven,okay?”

“Idon’tthinkso,”Regansaid,glancingatthedoorsintherearoftheroom.

“YouneedtoforgetaboutColin.He’syourpast.I’myourfuture.”

“Uh, I’ve got to go.” She stalked away, not really hearing or caring what Brian

thoughtatthemoment.

She rapped her knuckles on the men’s room door a moment later. The door cracked

andanarmgrabbedherandpulledherinside.Herheartwentintoherthroat.

Colinpulledherintothehandicappedstallandslantedhismouthoverhers,probing

herwithhistongue.Sheresponded,notcaringwheretheywere.Herarmswrappedaround
him.“You’regoingtowinthiscase.Youcan’tlose.”

“What’sthisbigsecret?”hewhispered.“I’vealreadymadesurewewerealone.”

“Ramirezisalive.Isawhiminthecourtroom.We’vebeensittingnexttooneanother

fortwodays.Ididn’tknowitwashimuntilIspokewithhim.He’shadahaircut,butit’s
him.”

LightfilledColin’seyes.“Really?”

“Whodowetell?”

“Whatdoyouhaveforproof?Theyaren’tgoingtobelieveyouorme.”

“I’mworkingonit.I’llgettheproof.”

“Hey,youhaven’tseenthatJoeMontyguyaroundhaveyou?”

“Notsincewespoketheotherday,why?”

“Hewon’tbebotheringyouanymore.”

“What does that mean? It doesn’t sound good, considering what’s happening in that

courtroom.”

Hehuggedherandsmiled.“Ididn’tkillhim.Ijustreasonedwithhimonalevelhe’d

understand.”

“Youdidn’tkillRamirezeither,”shesaid,givinghimaquickpeckonthelips.

Thebathroomdoorswungopen.“Idon’tthinkitmatters,”Briansaidtosomeone.

Regantriedtoseebetweenthecrackinthepartitions.

“Well,”theothermansaid,“Ithoughtyoushouldknow.Thiscan’tfallapartnow.I

havepeoplewhoarewaitingforthatmoney.”

“Dead men tell no tales and have no debt,” Brian told him. “It all takes time. Chill.

I’vegottogetback.”

Regan’seyeswidened.WasthemanwithBrianRamirez’sfatherorbrother?Orwasit

Ramirezhimself.

Thedooropenedagain.“Excuseme,”theyheardBriantellsomeone.

“Colin?”ItwasPetrowinskiwhispering.

Hepushedopenthedoor,andthetwoofthemleft.

Theroomwasempty.

“Timetogetback,”Petrowinskisaid.“Thejuryisgettingreadytocomeback.”

“Already?”Regansaid.“Isthatgood?Aquickdecision?”

“Not necessarily. It either means they were ready to hang a police officer or they

thoughtyourbrotherandhisteamwaswayoffbase.”

They left the men’s room and went back into the courtroom. Quiet chatter greeted

them.

Thejurorsfiledintotheroomoneatatime.Somberfaces,headsdown,lookingatthe

ground.Regandidn’tlikethedreadshefelt.

IfColin lost this,it would beher fault. She wasthe one who’dtold Brian about the

excessiveforcecomplaints.Inretrospect,shewassurprisedthatBrianhadn’tstoodover
her,salivatingandrubbinghishandstogetherevillywhenshetoldhim.

Guilt flooded her body and she felt her temperature rise. Whatever happened, she

couldn’t tell Colin what she’d done. She wiped her palms on her pants, fighting back
nausea.ShescootedintoherbackseatasColinandhislawyersatupfront.Shecrossed
herfingersforgoodluck.

Thejudgereenteredthecourtroomandsat.“Forman?Youhavereachedadecision?”

“Wehave,YourHonor.”

“Well,pleasereadyourverdict?”

Regantookadeepbreathandheldit.Herteethgroundtogether.

“WefindthedefendantliableforthewrongfuldeathofRodrigoRamirez.”

Therewasacryofoutragefromthebackofthecourtroom,thenReganrealizeditwas

her.Shecoveredhermouthwhenthejudgelookedpointedlyather.

“Thankyouforyourwork,”thejudgesaid,dismissingthejury.

Reganrushedthefrontofthecourt.“JudgeLynch!”shecalledout.

Thedeputygrabbedheraroundherwaistandheldherwhilethejudgeescapedtohis

chambers.“Thisisanoutrage.Ramirezisalive,”shecalledout,butnooneseemedtobe
listening.

Colin remained sitting in his chair, his eyes as vacant as Ramirez’s eyes only a few

hoursago.

“Colin,” she prodded. When he didn’t respond, she turned to Petrowinski. “Can you

appealthis?”

Thelawyershookhishead.“Thechiefwon’tappealthiscase.Hewantsitdoneand

offhisdesk.”

Reganslumpedagainstthedeputy.

“Ma’am,areyouokay?”

“No.”Shefeltthetearswellinhereyes.No,no,shewouldn’tdoit,shewouldn’tcry.

Brian was high-fiving people and thanking his co-workers. He strutted over to her.

“Regan,baby,Ididit.Iwonmyfirstcase.”

“Shutup,Brian.”

Hepulledherintohisarmsandshestoodimmobilized.“Letmego,Brian.Ineedto

getoutofhere.”

“Seeyoutonight,”hesaid,releasingher.

“You’renotgoingnearher,”Colinsaidinhisear.

BriansnappedhisheaduptolookColinintheface.“LikehellI’mnot.She’smine.”

“She’s your sister, but you aren’t going near her. If I have to hire a hundred private

investigators,Iwillmakesureyouareneveralonewithher.”

Brian’sfaceblanched.“Whatdidyousay?”

“Ihadalittletalkwithyourbuddy,JoeMonty.”

Brianshrugged.“Neverheardofhim.”

Colinglared,surehisstarealonewouldburnthemantoacrisp.“Stay.Away.From.

Regan.”

“You’dbettergetyourfinancesinorder,Officer.”

Colinspunonhisheelandlefttheroom.Petrowinskicouldfindhimlater.Hewentto

thetopfloorofthecourthousetohide.

Justice.Fairness.Protectingtheunderdog.Thosewerethethingshestoodfor.Itdidn’t

seem to matter to anyone else in that courtroom. How was he going to be able to get
marriedtoReganagain?Anythingshebroughttotherelationshipwouldbegarnishedand
sentofftothepoorscumbag’sfamily.Hekickedatthemarblewall.

“Gotasmoke?”askedthemanColinhadn’tseen.

“No.”Colindidn’tevenlookup.Didn’tgiveacrap.

“Badnews?”themanasked.

“I’mnotinthemoodforchatting.”Colinlookedupbutthemanhaddisappeared.

ThechiefgaveColintherestofthedayoffandthenextonetoo.Bigofhim,Colin

thought, considering he didn’t have a home to take a day off at. The media at least
wouldn’tbeabletofindhim.Thistimehechosetoheadtotheriver.

HepulledintotheclearingtofinditalreadyoccupiedbyRegan.Shestoodneartheir

rockherhandswrappedaroundherwaist,watchingtheriverflowby.Shedidn’tevenlook
upwhenhedroveinandparked.

“Ididn’texpecttofindyouhere,”hesaid,comingupbehindhercoveringherarms

withhis.

“Ifiguredyou’dcomeheresoon.”

“Suckyday.”

“I’llsay.Youhavetopaythemmoneyforacrimeyoudidn’tcommit.Howcomeyour

lawyerdidn’tprovethevideowasafake?”Shewasdesperate,closetofallingapart.“The
scum is still alive. I thought justice would be served, but it wasn’t. You can’t trust
anything.”

“Youcantrustme,”hetoldher.

“Yeah,butIcan’tbewithyoubecauseofthisbogustrial.Wecan’tgetbacktogether

orthey’llknowthedivorcewasasham.”

His pulse skipped. She couldn’t be saying they were done. That wasn’t supposed to

happen.

“But,youloveme,”hesaid,graspingatanything.

“Ido,but,oh,Colin,Ican’t,wecan’t.”

Timeforanothertactic.“WhatwasthatstuffinthebathroomwithBrian?”

“Something’s going on with him. I’m not sure exactly what, but I think he knows

Ramirezisstillalive.”Reganshookherhead.

“Ihavetodisagree,”Colinsaid.“Brianwouldn’thavebeenabletorepresentthemas

wellashedidifheknewtheywerelying.”Unlesshe’sasociopath.

She pulled away from him. Colin tried to keep contact with her, but she outstepped

him.

“You know Joe Monty?” Colin didn’t wait for a response. “Brian hired him to get

pictures of us together to use in court or to blackmail us somehow. When I went to see
Monty,hetoldmethis.”

Sheshookherheadviolently.“No.Brianwouldn’tdothat.He’sbeentryingtoprotect

me.”

“I’mafraidhewasplayingyouandme.Brian’sneverlikedme,youknowthat.There

mustbeareasonhedidn’twantustogether.Didheeversayanything?”

Shestaredintohiseyes.Hefeltherdistancingherselffromhim.“Brianismyfamily.

He’s the only one I’ve been able to trust since my parents died. Tell me Colin
‘trustworthy’Rourke,whendidyoufindoutthatBrianhiredMonty?Andwhydidn’tyou
warnme?”

Herealizedthetraphe’dsetforhimself.TellherthatIknewaboutBrian,andshe’ll

knowI’vebeenkeepinginformationfromher.She’dprobablythinkhe’dkeptmorestuff
from her. Lie, and he was knowingly deceiving her. The no-win situation ate at his gut.
“WhenyoutoldmeaboutMonty,Iwentovertherethatnight.Hecrackedlikeanegg.”

“Brian was your brother-in-law. Shouldn’t you have given him the benefit of the

doubt?”

Colinshookhishead.“Shockinglyenough,IbelievedMontyoveryourbrother.”

Itwasthenhesawthewallshehaderectedbetweenthemasconcreteasifitwerea

realwall.

“I’msorry,Colin.Ican’ttrustyouanymoreandseeingyouistearingmeup.”Without

sayinganythinganotherword,sheslippedintohercaranddroveaway.

Colin plopped on the rock. Brian had won. He was getting rid of Colin and would

haveRegan’sundyingfaithfulness.Hisstomachknottedandhefeltlikehemightgetsick.

He,ontheotherhand,hadlosthiswife,hisbestfriend,hishouse,therespectofthe

wholepolicedepartment,andabitofhisself-respect.Hewenttohiscar,pulledoutabeer,
and swilled it. He popped open another one, planning to get completely shitfaced. He
deservedittonight.

Regandroveblindlythroughthedarkstreetstoherhouse.Everythingwasherfault.A

tear fell down her face. There was no way she could tell Colin that the reason they
couldn’tbetogetherwasbecauseshe’dopenedherbigmouthandtoldBrianeverything.
She’dthoughtshe’dtoldhiminconfidenceaboutthecomplaintsagainstColin.Brianhad
used that to discredit Colin. She felt her stomach knot painfully. She should have told
Colinthetruth.Shewasthereasonhe’dhavethisblackcloudofdebthangingoverhim
forever.

Whenshearrivedhome,Brian’scarwasinherdrivewayandhewastalkingtoDirk.

Not happening. She hit the gas and drove by. Seeing her brother was the last thing she
wanted.

Instead, she drove downtown, somewhere she never went alone especially at night.

The boarded windows and dark storefronts made her skin crawl with apprehension. She
stopped in front of Monty’s PI Agency. There was a light on in the back and she didn’t
hesitate. Striding with purpose, she came to the door and pounded with her fist on the
glass.

Adoorinthebackopened,silhouettingthemanwho’dbeenfollowingher.“Bastard,”

shegrumbled.

Hecametothedoor,butdidn’topenit.“Whatdoyouwant?I’vesaidallIneededto

saytoyourex-husband.”

“Openthedoor.Ineedaskyousomequestions.”

“It’slate,lady.Idon’tgottaopenupforyou.”

Reganpulledoutalittlehammershe’dhadinherpurseforprotection.“Wanttoboard

upyourplacelikeyourneighbors?”Sheheldthehammeroverhershoulderwindingup
forthehit.

“No.Don’t,”hesaid,hishandsraised.Heunlockedandopenedthedoor.“Youguys

deserveoneanother.You’rebothcrazy.”

She made Joe Monty sit down on his vinyl couch. “Start talking. Tell me why you

werefollowingme.”

Montymadeadisgustedface.“BrianBainbridgehiredmetofollowyoutoseeifyou

wereincontactwithyourex-husband.Hetoldmehewasdangerous.He’sacop,ofcourse
he’sdangerous.Psycho,ifyouaskme.”

“Goon.”Shetappedherfootonthecrackedlinoleumtile.

“Hesaidyouweretobesafeatallcosts.Helovesyou.”

“Yeah,he’smybrother,ofcoursehelovesme.”

“It’smorethanthat.Anyway,hepaidincashandcheckeduponmyprogressalmost

everyday.He’sacontrolfreak,thatguyis.”

Herbodywentcold.SoColinhadtoldherthetruth.Brianhadhiredhisguytofollow

her and he’d done it behind her back. She tried to shake off the feelings of betrayal
threateningto swamp her.All she wantedto do was gohome to hidein her dark closet,
somethingshehadn’tdonesinceherthirdfosterhome,butwithBrianthere,shecouldn’t
doit.

Then something stuck in her mind. Something Brian had said. Had he said she was

his? His property? He’d also been very touchy-feely recently. Touching her hair, kissing
her.Oh,shit.

She raised her head. She was not going to be played by the men in her life. Not

anymore.

“Don’ttellanyoneIwashere,”shetoldJoeMonty.“Gotit?”

“Whatever,lady.”

She left with only one thing on her mind. Brian was going to answer her questions,

andshewasgoingtoheartheanswers.She’dlettoomuchslipbecausehewasfamily.Her
onlyfamily.

Her tires squealed as she took the corner down the street from her house. Brian and

Dirk were still there watching her drive like she was possessed, taking the driveway at
thirty-fivemilesperhourandjammingonthebrakes.Theybothjumpedatthenoise.

“Good evening, gentlemen. Dirk, you’re excused for the night. Brian, you and I are

goingtohavealittlebrother–sisterchat.”

DirklookedatBrianforconfirmation.

Regannarrowedhereyes.“Don’tlookathim.Getthehelloutofhere,Dirk.”

SheslammedhercardoorandstompedovertoDirk’scar,openinghisdoor.“Bye.”

DirkleftaftershootingafewmoreconcernedglancesinBrian’sdirection.

“You,” she said to Brian. “Inside.” This didn’t need to happen in front of the

neighborhoodgossips.

Briansmiledandenteredthehouse.

Regan unlocked the door and entered. She didn’t even bother to look around, she

knewwhoshehadtoworryabout.

Shepushedhimdownonthecouchinthelivingroom.“Let’schat.”

Brian’ssmileslipped.“DidIdosomethingwrong?”

“Yathink?”

“I—”

“Shutit.I’lldothetalking.Isawyourfriend,JoeMonty,justnow.Payingincashis

smart.Nopapertrail.ExceptyourchoiceofPIwasacompletewimp,willingtospillthe
truthtosomeonewithasmallhammer.”

“No.Idon’t—”

“Notalking.”

“FirstDirk,thenthisPI,whatelsearen’tyoutellingme?You’resupposedtobemy

brother.Myfamily.Instead,thethingsyouaredoingfreakmeout.IthoughtMontywasa
mobmemberouttogetme.Youletmebelievethat.”

“We’renotreallyrelated,Regan.Youknowthat,right?”

“You’vebeenmybrotherformorethanadecade.”

“Ineverthoughtofyouasmysister.”

Shecrossedherarmsandpacedthefloor.

“What’sthatsupposedtomean?”

“Iloveyou.Loveasinromanticlove,mysoulmate.”

Shespunaroundtoseeifhewaskidding.Hisfacewasseriousandshehadtoregroup

herthoughts.Colinhadbeenonlypartlyright.Briandidn’thateColinforanyreasonother
thanColinlovedher.Herheartlurchedatthethoughtofherhusbandsittingintheclearing
alone.

Brianstartedtostand,andshepushedhimbackdown.“Don’tcomenearme.”

“Don’tbelikethat.”

“I trusted you. You said you wanted to make sure I was safe, but what you really

wantedwasmeforyourself?”Thewholesordidplancameintoclarity.“Dirkwasaspy
justlikeJoeMonty.Theyweresupposedtoreportmyeverymovetoyou.Tellme,brother
dearest,didyouknowthatRodrigoRamirezisstillalive?”

His expression was a mix between fear and awe. “What? No. What makes you say

that?”

Heknew.Thelyingbastard.“Youdisgustme.Getout.Gocelebrateyourvictorywith

someonewhogivesarat’sass.Getout!”

Hestoodandsteppedtowardher.

“Touch me, and I scream rape. My neighbors have been waiting for me to get into

trouble over here by myself. I’m pretty sure Colin would welcome the opportunity to
shootyoufullofholes.”

Brianchangeddirection,headingtothedoor,andleftwithoutsayinganythinginhis

defense.

“Sonofabitch!”shescreamedintotheemptyhouse.

Chapter18

Regancollapsedintoherchairatworkthenextday.Hopefullynoonewouldneedto

callforhelp.Shewasn’tinthemoodtodealwiththepublic.

Thetwomostimportantmeninherlifehadliedandthendeceivedher.Sheshookher

head.Brianhadtakenadvantageofherlongingforfamily.

Afewofherco-workersstoppedbyhercubicletolayahandonhershoulderoroffer

wordsofcomfortbecauseofthejudgmentagainstColin.Shesmiledattheirconcern,even
thoughmostofitwasfake.

EvenSheilastoppedbytomakesureshewasokay,ormaybeitwastoseewhatkind

ofdirtshecouldcollecttospreadalloverthedepartment.Regandidn’tcare.

Shesighedandherphonerang.“Nine-one-one,whatisyouremergency.”

“ReganRourke,isthatyou?”

Shefrownedatthescreen.“Whoisthis?”Thehaironherarmsprickled.

“Ithinkyouknowwhothisis.Ihaveanemergency.I’mnotdead,andyouandthat

manofyourswillnevercatchme.”

“Rodrigo,it’sonlyamatteroftimebeforePortCity’sfinestcatchupwithyou.You

can’tstaycleanforthatlong.Everyoneknowsit.Whowerethosepeopleincourtgrieving
foryou?”

“Youasktoomanyquestions.IwantedyoutoknowthatI’llbewatchingyouallthe

time.Ifyoutellmorepeoplewhatyouthinkyouknow,itwillbethelastmistakeyou’ll
evermake.”

“I’m not afraid of you, Rodrigo Ramirez,” she said loudly enough to be heard by

othersintheoffice.

Shesawoneortwoheadspopupovertheircubicles.“That’sright,Ramirez,it’syou

whowon’tbesafe.”

She disconnected the line. Her heart was racing and she felt the sweat beads on her

forehead. She swiped at them and looked up. A few people were watching her, clearly
puzzled.

Confidence swelled inside her. Just like when she was a teenager, she knew trusting

herselfwastheonlythingshecouldcounton.Noonehadtoprotecther,andasfarasthe
threats from Ramirez, she could handle him and anything he tossed at her, even if her
kneeswereknockingtogetherandhermusclesfeltweak.

Shestood,preparingtogotothebathroom,whenSergeantWattsfromInternalAffairs

steppedbehindher.“Ifyouhaveaminute,I’dliketotalktoyou.”

Whatnow?Heartpounding,Reganfollowedhimoutofdispatch,downthehall,upin

the elevator, and to his office. He didn’t say anything until his office door was closed
behindher.

“I just got an interesting phone call from someone in dispatch, and thanks to digital

technology,I’velistenedtothecall-inquestion.”

She hadn’t remembered at the time that her calls were recorded. Ramirez had

incriminatedhimself.Shefeltthetensioneasefromhermuscles.

“HowlonghaveyouknownRamirezwasstillalive?”

“Sinceyesterday.”

“Didyoutellanyone?”

Shenodded.“ColinRourkeandhislawyer.That’sit.”

“YouknowhowthiswillaffectColin’sjudgment,right?IfRamirezisalive,thenthere

areproceduresthathavetohappentoreversethejudgmentagainsthim.”

“Shouldn’tyoubediscussingthiswithColin?”

“Youareourwitnessnow.You’llbewrappedupinhisappeal.And,therewillbean

appeal.Sorryifthat’saproblemforyou,seeingthatyoutwoaredivorced.”

Shewavedhimoff.“I’lldowhateverIcantohelp.”

“That’swhatIwantedtohear.”Hestood,pattedherback,andopenedthedoor.

Obviously, the meeting was over. She smiled to herself. Colin was going to get free

from this nightmare. With purpose in her step, she trekked down the length of the hall.
The thought that they might be able to be together flashed through her mind, but she
pushedthethoughtasideforthetimebeing.Clearinghisnamewasparamount.

Shesteppedintotheelevator,readytoheadbacktowork.She’dhadenoughtimeto

collect her wits. The elevator stopped on the third floor and the doors slid open to Jack
standingthereinfullturn-outgear,hissniperrifleslungoverhisshoulder.

Hesmiledather.“Regan.”

“Hi,Jack.”

“Iheardthatyou’rehelpingColinonhisappeal.”

Shelookeddownatherwatch.“Man,thatwasfast.Yeah.IguessIam.Listen,Jack,

I’m sorry about what happened the night of the party. I never meant to lead you on.”
Whethershehadledhimonornot,shewaswillingtosayshehad.“IwantyouandColin
tobefriends.Gettinginthewayofyourfriendshipwasnevermyintent.”

He smiled at her again. “I understand. Colin’s a good guy and I see how things are

betweenyoutwo,evenifnooneelsedoes.I’lltrytotalktoColinafterthisoperation.”

“Hedoesn’tknowaboutthephonecallfromRamirez.Don’tsayanything.I’mgoing

totakecareofitonmyown.”Itwasherproblemtofix,afterall.ShewasthereasonColin
hadtohaveanappeal.Butshe’dmakeitright.

SheclappedJackonhisfreearm.“Goodluck.”

Shegotoutonthesecondfloor,andhestayedbehind.Shedidn’tlookback.

Therestofhershiftwasuneventful,butthesamesympatheticpeoplewhostoppedby

atthebeginningoftheshift,returnedtoaskaboutherphonecallfromRamirez.

Shehadanofficeraccompanyhertohercar.She’dlearnedsomethingoverthecourse

ofthetrial.

The evening proved uneventful, and she was about to go to bed when there was a

knockonthedoor.Awaveoffearwashedoverher.Shefeltthepricklesbehindherknees
andonherspine.

Pretendingshewasn’thomewasagoodoption.Sheslunkovertothewindowtospy

onwhoeveritwas.Theclockonhernightstandreadten-thirty-two.Toolateforasocial
call.Colinwouldhavecheckedwithherbeforecomingover.Sheheardthesquealoftires
asthecardroveaway.Thetaillightswerebarelyvisiblethroughthetreesandtherewasno
waytoreadtheplate.

She ran down the stairs. Checking the peephole before throwing open the door, she

stoodtherestaringdownthedarkroad,untilshekickedsomethingsittingontheporch.

“Whattheheck?”shegrumbled,bendingdowntocheckoutthepackage.Who’dever

heardofUPSdeliveringthatlateatnight?

HerfirstthoughtwasofRamirez.Histhreatshadscaredher,ifshewasbeinghonest.

Hewouldbecrazyenoughtodropoffabomboraseveredhand.ShewantedtocallColin
rightaway,butshecouldn’tinvolvehiminthis.ProvingRodrigoRamirezwasalivewas
hergig.Shevowedtobetheonetowinthisbattle.

Being afraid was not something she was willing to be anymore. She went back into

the house and called nine-one-one, reported the suspicious box, then throwing open the
frontdoor,shebrieflylookedaround,thendownatthebox.Shepickeditupandlistened.
It wasn’t ticking, but it was hard to tell because her heart was pounding loud enough to
waketheneighbors.

Sheshookitagain.Itdidn’tmakeanynoise.Pullingonthepackingtape,sheripped

the package open against what the dispatcher had told her and what she knew was the
smartchoice.Shealsoneededtoprovethatshedidn’thavetobeafraidanymore.Inthe
bottomofthebox,anenvelopesatnestledinpackingpopcorn.Notagain.

The envelope was white with a picture of a bridge sketched on the front of the

envelope.Sheslicedthroughthefoldandpulledthenotecardout.

Anytime,anywhere.Icangettoyou.Don’tbetrayme.RR.

Rippingthenoteinhalf,sheyelledintothedark.“Youwillpayforeverythingyou’ve

done,RodrigoRamirez.”Shestoppedshortofshakingherhandintheair,thengathered
theremnantsofthepackageandbroughtthemintothehouse.

ShecalledthePDbackandtoldthemtocancelthecall.Shewasfine.Itwasjustan

envelope.Theywantedtostillcheckthingsout,butagreedtobackoff.

Wasthisjustagametohim?She’dhadenoughofit.Pickingupthephone,shedialed

Brian. Talking to him wasn’t top on her list, but she wanted him to know the type of
peoplehewasrepresenting.

BeforeBrianhadachancetosayhi,shelaunchedintohim.“Ihadavisitfromyour

clients’deadfamilymember.Hedroppedapackageforme,apackagewithathreatinit.If
you love me like you say you do, maybe you’d better talk to his family. Warn them to
leavemealone.I’mnotplayingnicey-niceanymore.”

Itwasatthatmoment,sayingthosewordstoBrian,thatsherealizedshe’dalwayslet

othersrunherlifeforher.Firstherparents,thenaftertheirdeath,herbrother,inherfoster
homes, at work, and in her marriage. It was a never-ending cycle of people shoving her
not-so-gently in the direction they wanted her to go. Family had its drawbacks, she
thoughtwryly.

Shestraightenedtoherfullheight.Yes,nomorenicey-nice,ReganRourke.

~~~

Waiting outside the chief’s office the following morning, Regan pursed her lips

together,thenslidherhandsdownthefrontoftheblackskirtshe’dpulledoutoftheback
ofhercloset.

“Regan,”thechief’ssecretarycalled,“youcangoin.”

Regan gave her a smile and entered the office, her strides long and purposeful.

Stoppinginfrontofthechief’sdesk,shefelttheinner-niceReganblanch.“Thankyoufor
seeingme,Chief,”the‘nomorenicey-nice’Regansaid.“Ihavesomenewsthataffectsthe
department,city,andespeciallyColinRourke.”

Thechieffoldedhishandsonhisdesk.“Iunderstandthatwhathappenedwasnoteasy

tohear.Findingoutthathewasresponsibleforthiscrime,atleastintheciviltrial,must
not have been easy for you.” He leaned back in the high-backed chair. His office
overlooked the city and the harbor. His barrel chest was covered with his uniform shirt.
Somechiefschosetowearsuitsandties,butnotChiefGordon.Hewantedtobethesame
ashisofficers,buthisuniformhadepauletsfilledwithgolddenotinghisrankatthetopof
thepeckingorder.

“Sir, that’s what I am here to discuss. I received a phone call and a visit with a

threatening note from Rodrigo Ramirez, the man Officer Rourke was thought to have
tossedoverthesideofthebridge.Thatmanisstillalive.”

Heleanedforwardaninch.“Alive?”

“Yes.Verymuch.There’sarecordingonadispatchtapefromhiscalltome.Sergeant

Wattsheardthecallandquestionedmeaboutit.I’msurprisedhedidn’tcometoyouwith
thisinformation.”Shewasonarollnow.“Ataskforceneedstobecreatedorassignedto
find this scumbag and put him in prison where he belongs. Officer Rourke needs to be
clearedofallwrongdoing.IwillhelpanywayIcan.Ifitmeansbeingbait,signmeup.”

“I’ve watched you for the last three years.” Chief Gordon leaned back in his chair.

“I’ve never seen you be this assertive, and in your evaluations, that was always in the
‘needs work’ category. I’m impressed, but I’m sorry to disappoint you. I’m not going to
createataskforce,andI’mnotgoingtoaskmyofficerstostopgoingoncurrentcallsfor
helpinthecitytochaseafterthisghost.”

She took the compliment, then frowned. “I am a citizen of Port City, and I am in

danger.Whatareyougoingtodoaboutit?”

“HowaboutifIhavethelieutenantstelleveryoneduringtheirdailymeetingtobeon

thelookoutforMr.Ramirez?”

“That’sacceptable,”shetoldhim,eventhoughsheknewitwasminimaleffortonthe

chief’spartandmorecouldbedone.“Thankyouforyourtime.”

Sweatdampenedherbrowassheexitedtheofficesuite.Shesuckedinadeepbreath

ofloftyair.Itwasn’tthepeopleonthefifthfloorwhoweregoingtocatchRamirez.Itwas
theofficersonthestreet.Andoneex-wifewithagrudge.

Sinceshedidn’thaveawaytocontactRamirez,she’dhavetowait.Wordwasbound

togetoutthatthePortCityPoliceDepartmentwassearchingforhim.Thewholetimeshe
wasworkingonthecaseandspeakingwithpeople,Colinremainedforemostinhermind.

Hearing from Ramirez didn’t take as long as she thought it would. “Hello, Regan,”

Ramirezpurredather.

“Tookyoulongenough,”shesaid,nopretenseofgivingashit.

“You’vebeenbusy.”

She waited, not saying anything into her headset. Knowing this was being recorded

gavehermoreconfidence.

“IwarnedyouthatIwouldbewatchingyou.”

“Cutthecrap,”shesaid.Aheadpoppedupoverthecubicle.“Let’smeetandgetthis

overwith.I’msickofyourgames.Youwantme?Let’smeet.”

“Oh,sweetRegan,I’msureyou’dlovemetotellyouwheretomeetandyou’dshow

upwithfiftypoliceofficers.”

“Maybe.”

“Oneofmyassociateswillpickyouup,whenyouleastexpectit,andthenwe’llend

this.”

Sheshiftedinherseat.“Whenwillyoujumpme?”

“Soon.”

Herheadstartedtothrobandshedisconnectedtheline.He’dalreadyhungup.

“You’reahardass,”theguyworkingnexttohersaid.

Yeah,shewas.

Ramirez was right when he said soon. She’d just left work, after saying goodbye to

Kimatthefrontdesk,whenastereotypicalblackvandrovepasthergoingintheopposite
direction.Then,withsquealingtiresandachangeofdirection,itpulledupnexttoher.A
dooropenedonthesideandamangrabbedherarmandyankedherinside.

Shecouldn’tstopthescreamthatescapedherthroat,eventhoughshe’daskedforthis.

Thevantookoff,throwingherbackagainsthercaptor.Shetriedtoseewhoitwas,butit
wasdarkinthebackofthevan.Allofthewindowshadbeenpaintedblackandtherewere
noseats.Acurtainhungbetweenthebackandthedriver.

“Thanks for the ride,” Regan said, brushing off her clothes. Her arm hurt where the

manhadgrabbedherandsherubbeditabsentmindedly.

“Quiet,”hesaidharshly.

Reganfeltthefirstthreadoffearweaveitswaythroughherbody.Shewasthebaitall

right,butnooneexceptherknewshewasplayingthatrole.

Itonlytookfiveminutesforthemtoarriveattheirdestinationonthewaterfront.The

mendraggedheroutofthevanandpushedherintoashackthathadbeenusedbytheIrish
immigrants working on the docks a hundred years ago. Regan thought they’d been
abandonedforafewdecades.Itsmelledfishyinthetwo-roombuilding.

“Sitandwait.He’sinameeting,”herkidnappersaidandthenleftthebuilding.

Regantappedherfootonthedirty,woodenfloor.Shewhistledquietly,then,notbeing

abletotoleratesittingstillanylonger,shesnucktothedoorandlookedout.Thevanwas
thereaswastheblack-hairedmanwho’dsnatchedher.

“Iwon’tdoit.Iwon’tsithereandwaittobemurdered,”Reganmumbled.

Sheturnedherattentiontothebackroom.WhowasRamireztalkingto?NiceRegan

wouldhavewaiteduntilRamirezfinishedhismeetingtodiscoverherfate,butthatRegan
wascoweringathome,lockedinhercloset.

ThisRegan,ontheotherhand,wasabadassandwasnotgoingtowaitfortroubleto

come to her. She listened at the door, but only heard hushed whispers. Taking a deep,
stabilizing breath, she pushed the door open to reveal Rodrigo Ramirez and Brian
Bainbridge,herbrother.

Shesweptagazeovertheroom.Twotwinbeds,acardtablecoveredwithmoney.

The words she wanted to say were trapped in her throat. She stared at the two men

seatedinthefoldingchair.

“Whatthehell?”Briansaid,glaringatRamirez.“Whywouldyoubringherhere?”

“She needed to be taught a lesson. This whole deal could disintegrate if she keeps

pokingintoeverything.”

RegansteppedtowardBrian.“Whatareyoudoinghere?”

Brianswipedahandfulofmoneyintoadufflebag.“Nothing.”

Sheleveledadeadlylookonhim.

“YouweretheonewhosaidIshouldwarnhim,”Briansaid,zippingupthebag.“So

considerthismywarningtohim.”

Shecrossedherarms.“You’veknownallalongthathewasalive.”

Brianshrugged.

“YouknewColinwasgoingto—”

Ramirezstoodupandsteppedtowardher.“Henotonlyknew,hehelpedengineerthe

wholething.Thatjury…whatnumbskullstofallforthatvideo.”

“Don’tsayanythingelse,”Regancautioned.

“Itdon’tmatter.Youwon’tbearoundtotellanyonethetruth.”

“Briandidthecameraworkandvideosplicingtogettheimageswewanted.Ihadto

stayoutofpublicviewforabunchofmonths,butit’samazinghowpeopleinacitydon’t
carewhothey’restandingnextto.”Ramirezletoutawickedcackle.“Thisguy,”hesaid,
using his thumb to point at Brian. “He thinks he’s in love with you and that you’ll love
himback.Wouldyou,Regan?Wouldyougiveupyourbig,strongpoliceofficerwiththe
bigguntohookupwithhim?”

Regan cut her gaze to her brother, who looked beaten. His head was bent, and he

clutchedtheduffleofmoneylikeitwasalifepreserver.

“Toobadyoutwowillneverfindoutifitcouldhavebeenhappilyeverafter.”

RamirezmovedtooquicklyforRegantoavoidhisgrasp,andhecapturedherarmand

pulleditbehindherback.Shefeltthemusclesandtendonsstretchingtothepointofpain,
butsheclenchedherteethandsaidnothing.

“Five-O,”someonecalledintotheshack.

Propelledbytheannouncement,Ramirezpushedheroutthefrontdoorandtowardthe

van.

Shaking sense into her addled brain, she tried to run. If she got into that van, she

probably wouldn’t ever see Colin again. She hadn’t even told him that she was the one
whoblabbedtoBrian.Herheartwasthuddingandherpalmsweresweaty.“I’mnotgoing
inthatvanwithanyofyou,”shestated,standingboltupright.

“Yeah. You are,” Ramirez said, pushing her forward, his death grip on her arm

unbreakable.

Shescreamed,hopingthatsomeonewouldhearher,anyone.

Apolicecruiserdrovebyslowly,theofficertalkingonhisradio,notevenlookingin

herdirection.

Sheyelledlouder.

“Shutup,orI’llshutyouup,”Ramirezhissed.

Reganfellsilent.

Thoughshetriedtoresist,thethreemenforcedherintothevananditspedoff.Itwas

gettingdarknowandReganrefusedtogiveintothehelplessnessshewasfeeling.

“Brian,”shestarted.“Whyareyoulettinghimdothistome?EvenifIdon’tloveyou

romantically,wearebrotherandsister.Youwatchedovermeforsolong.”

Brianlookedaway,notanswering.

“He’sheartbroken,”Ramirezsaidsympathetically,thenheburstoutlaughing.

Sheheardsirensaroundthecity,goingtocallsthechiefdeemedimportant,whileshe

wasfightingforherlife.Theironyofthesituationdidn’tescapeher.

The van violently lurched to the left as they changed direction before stopping

suddenly.“We’rehere.”Ramirezthrewopenthevandoor.

ReganfelttheblooddrainfromherfaceasshelookedoutoverthebaybetweenPort

City and Southport. She wasn’t leaving the van without a fight. Flexing her fingers, she
preparedherselftokicksomefelonass.

Thesirensseemedtosurroundher,mockingherdesperation,butallshecouldregister

wastheedgeofthebridgeandthecold,hardwaterbelow.

“Comeon.We’vegottohurry,”Ramirezsaidtotheblack-hairedmanandBrian.

Trappedbetweenthethreeofthem,Reganthrashed,lashingoutatRamirezwithher

nails,catchinghimonthecheek,drawingblood.SheballedherfistandwentforBrian’s
nose.Shemissed,hittinghimintheeye.Heletgoofhertoholdhiseye.Shegrabbeda
clumpofblackhairfromtheothermanandheldon.Themorehepulledaway,theharder
shetugged,hernailsdiggingintohisscalp.

“I’mnotleavingthisvan,”shetoldthem,hertoneserious.

“Getthisbitchoutofmyvan,”Ramirezsaid.

Shetriedforhimagainwithherfreehand,butmissed.Hegrabbeditandtwistedher

arm.Sirensblaredinherhead.Shemusthavebeencreatingthenoiseinhopestheywould
becomingforher.

Ramirez yanked her twisted arm, and she felt her elbow dislocate. She let go of the

hair she’d been gripping and her eyes teared up as he dragged her out of the van. She
kickedathim,butheeasilysteppedoutoftheway.

The side of the bridge was so close she could see the pilings surrounded by water.

Littlewhitecapssplashedontherocks.Fearseizedher,andshehadonethought.

Colin.

She loved and trusted him. He was her family. He was hers for better and worse.

Screweveryone.ShehadonlywantedtocatchRamireztoclearhim.

“Don’tmove!”Colin’svoicecutthroughthenightair.

ThefourofthemturnedtoseeColinandJackapproachingthem,weaponsdrawn.A

lineofpolicecarswithflashingbluelightswereparkedonthebridgeandmoreofficers
wereheadedintheirdirection.

Reaganhadneverbeensohappytoseeanyoneinallherlife.Sheslippeddowntothe

groundasreliefwashedoverher.

Ramirez held her tighter. “Oh, no you don’t,” he said. “I’m not letting you go that

easy.”

“Let go of her,” Jack said. “You only have two choices. Let go of her now, or I’ll

shootyouandthenyoucanletgoofher.”

“He’sagoodshot,”RegantoldRamirez,herbreathingshallowaspainenvelopedher

andshefoughttheurgetothrowup.

~~~

Colin only saw red. Rodrigo Ramirez was alive, and he was threatening to throw

Reganoffthesamebridgehewassupposedtohavebeenthrownfrom.Howironic.Jack
stood by Colin’s side, keeping him from doing something outrageously stupid. Filling
Ramirezwithbulletholeswouldbesosatisfying,butasJackexplainedastheyfollowed
thevan,Ramirezhadtobealivetotestify,toshowthatindeedhewasalive.

Regan’srightarmhunginanawkwardposition,andfromthepainmaskingherface,

hedidn’twanttodoanythingthatwouldcauseRamireztohurtherfurther.“Regan,honey,
hanginthere.”

“She’llbedoingmorethanhanging,”Ramirezsaid,pushingherclosertotheedge.“I

wannaseeifshecanfly.”

“Youdon’twanttodothat,man.Wehavetenofficershereandabunchofwitnesses

who’llbackupourstoryshouldsomethingtragichappentoyou.”Jacktookastepforward
andColinfollowed.

Brianwasstandingthere,butforthelifeofhim,Colincouldn’tfigureoutwhy.

“Brian,” Colin said, “walk toward Officer Waters with your hands on your head.

Moveslowly.”

Briannoddedandputhishandsoverhishead,thedufflebagstillclutchedinhisright

hand.

“Dropthebag,”OfficerWaterstoldhim.

“Doit,”Regantoldhiminaweakvoice.

Briandidastheydemanded.Oncehewascuffedandnolongerathreat,Colinturned

hisattentionbacktotheothertwomenandRegan.Hisheartwasthumpinghard,pumping
adrenalinethroughhisbody.Heknewhehadtokeepaneyeonthebadguys,butheonly
wantedtodrinkinthesightofRegan.Ithadbeentoolongsincehe’dseenherortalkedto
her. Giving her time to cool off, he’d tried to give her space to think about their future.
Had she been thinking about him? She had bags under her eyes, telling him she hadn’t

beensleepingwell,andherperfectskinwastoowhite.

“She’snotlookinggood,”ColinsaidtoJack.

Jacknoddedonce.

Ramirezhadheragainsttherailingnow,pushingherforwardsomostofherbodywas

outoverthewater.

“Colin,” she gasped. “I love you. I never stopped loving you. I’m sorry I told Brian

everythingduringthetrial.Ididn’tknowwhathewasthinking.Idon’tknowwhatIwas
thinking.Iloveyou.”

“Don’ttalklikethisistheend,”heresponded,hisguttight.

“You have until the count of three to step away from the woman,” Jack said. “One,

two,three…”

RamireztriedtogetReganoffbalancebygraspingherlegandlifting.Twoshotsrang

outandRamirezfellbackontothepavement.

ColinrantoReganandpulledherawayfromtheedgeofthebridge.Heplacedkisses

on her eyes, nose, ears, cheeks, and everywhere in-between. His heart was in his throat,
suffocatinghim.HeheldontoRegan,notplanningtoeverlethergo.

“Thisendshereandnow,”Colintoldher,assheshiveredinhisarms.

“What?”

“Us,thisdivorce.”

“Oh,Colin,Idon’tcareifwehavetobeindebtfortherestofourlives,andIdon’t

careifwehavetoliveinacardboardboxunderabridge.Notthisbridge,butadifferent
bridge,”shesaidwithachuckle.

“I’msogladtohearyousaythat.Idon’tthinkitwillhavetohappen.”

Shenoddedunderhischinasheledherovertotheambulance.

Afewhoursaftertheyarrivedbackatthestation,herun-dislocatedarminasling,and

reports having been taken, Colin entered the interview room with a fresh cup of coffee.
Reganlookedexhausted,blackcirclesweresmudgedunderhereyes,andshelookedlike
shemighthavebeencrying.

“Youokay?”heasked,placingthecoffeeinfrontofher,thenrubbinghershoulders

withhishandstowarmherup.

“It’sbeenalongday.”

“Ithas.ImeantwhatIsaidonthebridge,youknow.”

“Aboutusbeingtogether?”

He maneuvered to the table so he could look into her eyes, read her expressions as

theypassedacrossherface.“Forbetterorworse.”

“That’snicetohear,but—”

“There’sno‘but’,Regan.”

“YesthereisColin.It’syourturntolistentome.Ijustspentthelasttwohourstelling

yoursuperiorswhathappenedtonightonthebridge.HowRamirezandBrianframedyou
forthedeathofRamireztogetmoneyandultimatelyforBriantogetme.Hesaidheloved
me.”

“Eww.Youandyourbrother?”

“I know, right? Petrowinski was here and has already talked to the judge about

reversingyourjudgment.BrianandRamirezhavebeenquestionedaswell.IguessBrian
editedthevideoandleakedittothepress.Ramirezhasbeenrunningaroundtown,trying
tomakeitdifficultformeandforyou.Thenotefoundinmyhousethefirsttimewasfrom
Ramirez.”

“Whatdoyoumeanthefirsttime?”Colinscowleddownather.

“I got a letter from him, then the letter from our neighbors, you knew about that.

Yesterday,Igotapackagefromhim.”

“And,youdidn’tseefittocallme?”

“Nope.IwasgoingtosetupRamirezonmyown.Ifthatmeantgettingblownupin

theprocess,sobeit.”

He couldn’t stand to just look at her anymore. He leaned into her and melded his

mouth with her, his tongue mating with her. “I’m glad you didn’t get blown up,” he
mumbledbetweenkisses.

“Metoo,”shesaidasshepulledawayfromhimafewcentimeters.“IfI’dbeenblown

tosmithereensthenIwouldn’thavebeenablecelebratewithyou.Andwewillcelebrate.
Petrowinski said he’d call you as soon as he had word from the judge. He didn’t think
you’d have to go back to court.” She leaned into his mouth, her tongue seeking his,
mappingtheinsideofhim.Hecrushedhertohim,tighterandtighter.

“Getaroom,youtwo,”Jacksaid,bustinginonthem.

“Jack.”Colinpulledawayandcrossedtheroomtohisfriendwithhishandextended

asapeaceoffering.“Thanksforeverythingyoudidonthebridge.Ioweyou.”

“Allisforgiven.Youokay,Regan?”

Shenodded.

“Good.IheardwhatColinsaidonthebridge.Youtwoaregettingbacktogether?”

ColinwasatRegan’ssideinasecond.Hecarefullyputhisarmaroundhershoulder.

“Weare.Thesplitwasneversupposedtobepermanent,”Colintoldhim.“Nowthatthe
caseisgoingtobeoverturned,Icantellyoueverything.”

Regan touched Jack’s arm with the arm she could still move. “I’m sorry I didn’t

reciprocateyourfeelings,butI’mstillinlovewithColin.”

“Iknow.”

ColinandJackshookhands,andJackleft.

“Ican’twaittogetyouhome.”

“You’renotangrywithmebecauseIcausedyoutoloseyourtrial?”

“It’snotyourfault.Brianshouldn’thaveusedwhatyoutoldhimagainstme.”

“Idon’twanttotalkabouthimanymore.Iwanttogetyouhomeandinmybed.”

Hisphonerang,interruptinghisthoughtsaboutwhathewasgoingtodowithRegan

tomakehercomfortableandveryhappy.

HeansweredthephoneandlistenedforaminutewhilePetrowinskispoketohim.

“I see,” he said, schooling his features so as not to give anything away to Regan.

She’dgivensomuchtohelphimandhecouldn’tletherdown.Asshelistenedtohim,her
faceslippedmomenttomoment,untilshewasfrowning.

“Thank you for calling,” Colin said, shutting off his phone and turning toward her.

“Well,that’sdone.”

“Wasthatthelawyer?Whatdidhesay?”

“Yes. The judgment has been overturned and I’m cleared of all wrong doing. Your

brotherandRamirezhavebeenarrested.Ramirezspenttwohoursinthehospitalhavinga
bulletfishedoutofhim.Thenofftoprisontorecover.”

Reganlaunchedherselfathischestandintohisarms.“It’sover?”

“Yep.”

“Oh, Colin. Let’s go home. To our home.” She waggled her eyebrows at him

suggestively.

Colinsmiledandknewtheywereonthesamepage.Hespunheraroundsoshewas

facingthedoor,andwrappinghisarmoverhershoulders,hesaid,“Leadon,mysoon-to-
bebride.Leadon.”

Document Outline

WHEN THE VOW BREAKS
Acknowledgements
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18

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