“Thanks for this opportunity,” he said, running a hand over his slick black hair. “Not often does the crew get to simulate a real scenario like this. We train them well, don’t get me wrong, but nothing compares to the real thing. It’s a game-changer for the new recruits.”
“And some of the oldies—getting complacent, aye,” said a bald man, reaching over to punch Denis lightly in the arm.
Denis let out a loud laugh and, in a flash of camaraderie, pulled the man into a headlock, giving his shiny scalp a noogie. Then, just as quickly, he returned to neutral. It was a fleeting moment—but it was nice to see the big man had a soft spot.
“It’s time to begin, Mayor Akari,” said the twitchy woman, glancing at her watch.
“Thank you, Elise,” the mayor replied with a dip of her head.
“Trust you to snap at the bloody mayor,” I hissed into June’s ear as everyone at the table began exchanging last minute directions.
Her eyebrows curved skyward. “How was I supposed to know? Shouldn’t she be wearing a special necklace or something?”
“Detective!” the mayor’s voice sliced behind me at the approaching man.
“Mayor,” a gravely tone that sent a tingle up my spine echoed past me, and the mayor giggled.
“I’ve told you to call me Akari,” she said breathlessly, her cheeks glowing red.
Was the mayor of Glades Bay melting into a puddle over Dax Holmes?
I mean, I couldn’t blame her—but still.
The rest of the group exchanged awkward glances. I cleared my throat, breaking the tension that had formed in the space between the voices.
“I didn’t know you were the officer on duty tonight,” I said. My voice came out unrecognisably high, so I cleared it again and looked anywhere but at him.
June’s brow creased as she took in my fidgeting, then flicked her gaze to Dax, who had quietly wedged himself next to Denis. He was wearing sweatpants. Again. Was that even legal while on duty?
I could see why the mayor was flustered. His black sneakers stepped forward as he politely shook hands with everyone, and I tried not to stare at the ripple of muscles under his t-shirt sleeves every time he moved.
“This is my sister,” I squeaked, as he reached June.
Her brows lowered suspiciously at my odd tone. Great—she was going to give me hell for this.
“June,” she said coolly, meeting his gaze. “You two know each other already?” She asked, cocking her head in my direction.
“A little,” Dax replied, with a soft smile tugging at his lips. Whatever June saw in his eyes made her smile too—though hers leaned towards mischief.
“You all good that it’s me?” he asked seriously, withdrawing his hand. “I’m senior on duty tonight, but I can call someone else if you’d prefer.”
“I wanted it to be you!” I blurted—and then instantly clapped a hand over my mouth as my eyes bulged in betrayal.
Excellent. Justbrilliant.
That was twice now my mouth had acted out like a traitor around Dax. Move over Akari—I was officially turning into a lovesick teen.
“I mean to say…” I exhaled, starting again. “I’m glad it was you, because you’ve been here before and are familiar with the house from the break-ins and everything. Saves having to explain it to someone else.”
June snorted, and I glared up to see her spin, her back facing me as she covered her mouth and her shoulders heaved.Bitch.She was having a great old time. Dax dipped his head, ignoring my comment and allowing me to maintain a shred of dignity, like the gentleman he was.
“Now that everyone’s here, shall we make a start?” Mayor Akari clapped her hands together, her professional disposition recovered.
Final instructions were exchanged between the important people before teams were clicked over like servers at a restaurant. The firefighters in turnout gear formed themselves into three groups, fifteen per team. I tried not to focus too hard on the uniforms. I mean, who didn’t have a thing for firefighters?
A caramel-skinned man with full lips caught my eye. He winked. I coughed, clearing my throat again, and June patted my back with a grin.
Okay, not a great start. But honestly, what expectations did I have of myself? My body was grasping at comfort wherever it could find it. That was its oldest habit. Even so—there was only one man whose comfort I truly wanted.
