One eyebrow lifted. “Super detective?”
“Very impressive title. I just made it up.”
He stepped closer and snagged her by the waist, pulling her against his chest, and kissed her, quick and firm. “I’ll call on my lunch break. Check in. Make sure you’re okay.”
“Carson—”
“I know, I know. You’re safe. But humor me.”
“Okay. But only because I love you.”
“Love you too.” He kissed her again. “There’s money in the drawer for lunch if you want to order in. And remember—”
“Doors locked. Security system armed. Don’t open for strangers. I know the drill.” She walked him to the door. “Go solve crimes. I’ll be here when you get back.”
After he left, Nora stood in the quiet apartment, soaking in the space around her. This was her life now. This apartment. This city. This man who loved her and worried about her and trusted her enough to let her help with cases.
It felt surreal. And perfect. And terrifying in the best way.
She poured another cup of terrible coffee and settled at the dining table with her laptop. Time to build something new.
***
Carson walked into the station and was immediately swarmed.
“Black! You’re back!”
“How was the vacation?”
“Is it true you’re living with the Bell woman?”
“Her name is Nora,” Carson said to the last question. “And yes, we’re living together.”
Finn appeared through the crowd, grinning. “Look who decided to rejoin civilization. How was the cabin?”
“Good. Really good.” Carson followed Finn to his desk. “Anything happen while I was gone?”
“Usual chaos. Two domestic disturbances, one burglary, and Harvey accidentally tased himself during training.”
“How does someone accidentally tase themselves?”
“It’s Harvey. He’s special.” Finn leaned against Carson’s desk. “But seriously, you look good, man. Rested. Happy. Vacation did you good.”
“It did.” Carson logged into his computer, scanning emails. “How’s the Eugene case? Any developments?”
“Arraignment went as expected. Pled not guilty, but with all the evidence and witnesses, hislawyer’s already talking plea deals. DA’s not budging though. Wants him to go away for life.”
“Good.”
“Dan’s lawyer is still trying to cut a deal. Says Dan has information about other crimes, other victims. DA’s considering it, but nothing’s decided yet.”
Carson’s jaw clenched. Other victims. Of course there were other victims. Men like Eugene and Dan didn’t just wake up one day and start stalking. They escalated. Practiced. Refined their methods.
“Keep me updated on that,” Carson said. “If there are other victims, they deserve justice too.”
“Will do.” Finn pushed off the desk. “Oh, and Captain wants to see you when you get in.”
Of course he did. With a grunt, he forced himself out of his chair.
