Page 51 of Cuffed By the Wolf

Looping my arm around Jenny’s, I lead her away from the games. “I understand this festival is an annual event. What’s your favorite food here?”

She looks around, trying to decide.

In the back of my mind, I want to zap her ass where she stands — the same electric tingle from Gloria’s tent stirring faint in my fingertips. Did she really spend summers here? Why lie about that?

“There’s the turkey drumstick booth, and I really enjoy the rotor ride—you know, the one where you’re pinned against the wall and the floor slips away.”

“I know that one,” I say brightly.

She smiles. “I always liked strolling around holding that giant drumstick,” she laughs softly, as if reminiscing.

Smooth move. Her subtle scent of rose, honey, and lemon stayed sweet, never souring to betray her lie.

“You can ride the rotor solo. I was never crazy about it.”

We both chuckle.

Ten minutes later, Jenny devours the turkey drumstick while I enjoy my corn dog.

“Sasha,” my sister calls, waving. Tara texted me a few minutes ago to say they had arrived.

Tara’s amber eyes—an inheritance from our dad—shine brightly, as if she’d slept well. Her honey-brown skin glows warmly. Her shoulder-length black hair is gathered into a low ponytail. She’s dressed casually in blue jean shorts, a purple tank top, and white sneakers, clearly ready to walk.

I hurry over and wrap her in a hug, still holding my corn dog. Then I slip an arm around my best friend’s neck. Evie’s dark hair is twisted into a crinkly high bun. Her deep brown eyes sparkle with excitement. The flowing yellow maxi dress with thin spaghetti straps suits the sunny day perfectly and makes her mocha skin radiate. Gold sandals complete her look.

“I’m so glad you’re both here. Let me introduce you to Jenny.”

Once we’ve exchanged introductions, we settle at a table near the concert, where we can listen until we’re ready to join the crowd. But first, more food. Now, I’m munching on fried Oreos.

“Any closer to finding out who made the wire transfer?” Evie asks.

“I am. Sheriff Drake and I questioned several shop owners and uncovered new leads.”

“That’s great—even if you ditched me for the sheriff,” Jenny teases, making a goofy face.

I laugh. “He recently offered his help. I couldn’t say no to police support.”

She smirks, but it feels a bit forced.

Interesting.

A hit song blasts through the speakers, and the girls and I sing along.

“We need drinks,” I blurt out.

“Yes!” Tara exclaims.

“I’m with you,” Evie chimes in. “We’re taking a car service to your camper, right?”

“Absolutely,” I confirm.

A deep voice cuts in, “I’ll get you ladies to Sasha’s.”

“Sheriff.” I smile, feeling my heart flutter. A cheer squad seems to be doing backflips in my stomach. He’s not in uniform—off duty, maybe?

He slides off his aviators and tucks them into the front pocket of his dark green button-down shirt, sleeves rolled just below the elbows. The shirt brings out the color of his striking green eyes. His jeans hug his muscular thighs perfectly.

This man has always been there when I needed him. I’m tired of pushing him away. I deserve someone who will cherish me. Once I find who framed me, I’ll sit down with Gavin and lay it all out.