He didn’t smile, and he didn’t grin, only cradled his other hand next to his body, like he was protecting something tiny.
When our eyes met, I was suddenly facing the most beautiful set of dark eyes I’d ever seen. They were brilliant and fierce and appeared to be glowing in the moonlight. A million thoughts were bouncing around in my head, but I was speechless.
I couldn’t think.
I couldn’t move.
He stepped closer and reached out, touching my arm.
“Miss? Are you okay?”
I shook my head and nodded, tearing my eyes away from his to answer.
“Yes, thank you. We’re closed for the day, but is there something I can help you with?” I said, trying to sound as professional as possible and not relay the awkwardness I felt.
I squared my shoulders and reached out to shake his hand. He grasped mine and shook firmly. His hand was rough and warm, but I managed to nod at where his hand rested protectively.
“Yes, ma’am. My name is Officer Mark Hansen, and I apologize for the late hour, but I have a tiny problem and need assistance.”
2 - MARK
My Ford Interceptor Utility SUV cruised down the highway, and I ran my hand over the familiar leather. It had been an uneventful day—a few speeding tickets, a minor fender bender with no injuries, and paperwork, but even after an easy twelve-hour shift, I was ready for a shower, food, and bed. Even gaming couldn’t hold my attention.
I hadn’t been shopping lately, but there had to be peanut butter in the pantry or something in the freezer I could microwave. My phone flashed with a message, but I waited until I pulled up to a red light to check, shaking my head when I saw it was a group text from my brothers.
Mil: You off work yet? Want to grab a beer?
Me: Not tonight. Maybe this weekend
Mag: Told you he’d say no
Mav: He always says no
Me: No I don’t
Mil: Whatever bro. What ominous sign did you see today?
Mav: You walked underneath a ladder?
Mag: You broke a mirror?
Mav: You saw a black cat break a mirror into thirteen pieces?
Me: Assholes
Mav: GIF of a middle finger
Mil: Tell Us! Don’t make us add mom to this thread. You know you’re her favorite.
Me: Ugh. Fine. No signs. Yet.
Mag: Oooohhhh. Mr. Big Bad Police Officer getting nervous? Better rub that rabbit’s foot!
Me: Assholes
Mil: Temper, temper.
Me: I’m driving
