“I know you will.”
“We’ll get through this.”
“I know,” I lied again.
***
By seven forty-five the next morning, I was being led into Judge Lawson’s private chambers. Even though Chase had assured me again on the drive over to the courthouse that I had nothing to fear, I couldn’t help my racing heart. You never knew in these situations how things were going to go. Especially if it was true that Bernie Schuler had some pull higher up in the community.
Lance and Clifford were already in the Judge’s chamber, along with the district attorney. Chase uncuffed me and we all sat down.
“Ms. Martin, it’s not often I tell someone it’s nice to see them again, but in your instance I’ll make an exception.”
I smiled weakly. “Thanks, Judge Lawson.”
“I’ve already been briefed about what happened,” Judge Lawson said. “I’ve read over the reports and eye witness statements. I conferred with the DA and we have agreed that Ms. Martin did not violate her conditions, and the DAs office will not move forward with prosecution at this time.” The judge turned to me and smiled. “After reading over all the reports, I have to say, I almost wish I’d have been there to witness everything from the ice cream throwing to the arrest. I’m sure it wasn’t amusing to you, but knowing Mimi Stiles like I do, I can imagine it was entertaining.”
I laughed. “Yes, one of the best outcomes from my time here at Trinity Falls was the friendships I made with Mimi and her group of friends.”
The judge’s eyes twinkled. “And I hear after a little bit of a rough start, that your house arrest went well this week.”
I tried not to blush, but I could feel the heat in my cheeks. I didn’t want to think about what all Lance and Clifford had told him. “Yes, sir. Officer Cryer was—well, he stepped up when he didn’t have to and made my house arrest bearable.”
Judge Lawson grinned. “Bearable, huh? Good to know.”
“So we’re done?” Lance asked.
“As far as the Court is concerned,” Judge Lawson said. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m about to start my very busy morning.”
We turned and walked out into the courthouse hallway, leaving the judge alone in his chambers. Clifford shook my hand and left while Lance and Chase flanked my sides.
“So now what?” Lance asked.
“I have to go back to work,” Chase said. “But I should be home around five. How about we all celebrate by grilling out tonight at my place?”
“Sounds good,” Lance said.
My heart felt like it was being squeezed. I knew I had to break the contact now or I’d never do it. “I can’t. I think I’m just going to go stay with my mom and dad out by the lake in the van tonight.”
“What?” Chase asked. “Why? I mean, you’re more than welcome to stay upstairs if you don’t—I mean, now that your ankle is better, you don’t have to stay downstairs. You can still use the upstairs.”
“I know,” I whispered. “But I think it’s best if I don’t.”
“You know what?” Lance said, “I need to head back to the office. I’ll talk with you both later.” He gave me a pointed look before he turned and strode down the hallway.
“Don’t pull away from me, Martin,” Chase said. “You’ve been doing it since yesterday. I’m not going to let you go that easily.”
Tears blurred my vision. “Yeah, well, you don’t really have a choice. If I say it’s over, then it’s over.”
He crossed his arms over his chest. “And is that what you’re saying, Alexa? That it’s over before it even started? That you’re okay with running away and not seeing—”
“Stop!” When a couple heads turned our way, I lowered my voice. “Don’t do this, Chase. You and I both knew deep down it wasn’t going to work.”
“I don’t know any such thing,” Chase said. “What Idoknow is that you and I are crazy about each other. And that’s enough for me.”
“I’m not going to let you ruin your career because of me,” I said, talking past the lump in my throat.
He snorted. “It might be different if I were—no, you know what? Itwouldn’tmake a difference what job I held in law enforcement.”
