“Right. Nora.” Finn grinned. “You know the whole department is talking about how Carson Black finally fell for someone.”
“Let them talk.”
“I’m just saying, it’s good to see you happy. Or whatever version of happy you do.” Finn’s expression sobered. “She’s good for you, man. I can see it. You’re less...intense.”
“I’m plenty intense.”
“Yeah, but it’s different now. Before, you were intense because you were trying to outrun your demons. Now you’re intense because you have something to protect.” Finn clapped him on the shoulder. “Don’t screw it up.”
“Planning not to.”
Captain Holloway was next, calling Carson into his office after the DA’s meeting.
“Sit.”
Carson sat, bracing himself for the lecture.
But Holloway just looked at him for a long moment, then sighed. “You’re taking the time off.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. You need it. And so does she.” Holloway leaned back in his chair. “I read your report. Both shootings were clean. Justified. You did everything by the book. The review board will clear you, no question.”
“Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me. You earned it.” Holloway paused. “But, Carson, we need to talk about what happens next. With you and Ms. Bell.”
“Nora.”
“With Nora.” Holloway’s expression was serious. “The case is closed. Eugene and Dan are going away for a long time. Which means there’s no professional reason for you to stay involved in her life.”
“I know that.”
“Do you? Because from where I’m sitting, you’re about to dive headfirst into a relationship with someone who’s been through severe trauma. Someone who might see you as a savior rather than a partner. And I’m worried—for both of you—about what happens when the adrenaline wears off and real life sets in.”
Carson had thought about this. Had worried about the same things. “You think she only feels this way because I protected her. That it’s not real.”
“I think trauma bonds are powerful. And I think you need to be careful. For her sake and yours.” Holloway’s voice gentled. “I’m not saying don’t pursue this. I’m saying go slow. Let her heal. Letyourself heal. Make sure what you’re feeling is real and not just the aftermath of a high-stakes case.”
“It’s real,” Carson said with certainty. “I know the difference between a trauma bond and actual feelings, Captain. This is real.”
“I hope you’re right. Because I’d hate to see either of you get hurt.” Holloway stood, signaling the conversation was over. “Take your time off. Rest. Figure things out. And when you come back, we’ll talk about your next assignment.”
Carson left the office feeling unsettled. What if Holloway was right? What if Nora’s feelings were just gratitude and fear mixed together? What if once the danger passed and life returned to normal, she realized she didn’t actually want him?
But then he remembered the way she’d looked at him this morning. The way she’d saidI love you toowithout hesitation. The way she’d held onto him like he was her anchor.
That wasn’t trauma talking. That was real.
And he was going to prove it. To Holloway, to himself, and to Nora.
***
They left for the cabin at three PM, Carson’s truck loaded with groceries and supplies and Nora’s small suitcase.
She was quiet during the drive, watching the scenery change from city to suburbs to forest. Carson glanced at her occasionally, noting the wayshe kept touching the bandage on her throat, the way her shoulders stayed tense.
“Talk to me,” he said about an hour in. “What are you thinking?”
