Page 26 of Taking What Was His

Evan turned to her. “Was there anything else you needed, honey?”

“No. Thank you for coming. I know the heater is old, but I didn’t think it was having problems.”

“It’s just something I check every time I’m here.”

“Thank you, Evan.”

“How about if I take Jayden to a game next week?”

Roman watched the other man struggle to gain ground with Beth, and it wasn’t going to happen. Beth had no interest in the man other than friendship.

“Sure. I’ll check with him and call you. Is that okay?”

“Sure.” Even bent and picked up his toolbox. “Beth, can I have a word with you outside?”

Beth looked confused. “Sure.” She turned to Roman. “I’ll be right back.”

He nodded and stood to get more coffee when he heard Evan’s voice.

“What the hell, Beth?” he hissed.

“What’s wrong?”

“You’re dating the captain?”

“I’m dating Roman. I don’t care what he does for a living. I can’t understand why you’re upset?”

“I just didn’t realize you were ready to start dating.”

“It just happened. We met and are attracted to each other and like spending time together. I didn’t realize this would upset you so much.”

“It’s just ... I want you to be happy.”

“I know that. He’s making me happy.”

“You know other guys at the precinct wanted to ask you out when you were ready?”

“No, I didn’t know that. I wouldn’t have wanted to date any of them.”

“Why? They weren’t good enough?” Evan snapped.

There was a tense moment of silence.

“No, it’s not that at all, and you know better. It’s because they are all a part of my life with Rick. Roman wasn’t here when I lost him. I don’t look at him and am reminded of what I lost.”

“Shit, I’m sorry, Beth. I’m sorry I got mad. I just hope you know what you’re doing with him. The precinct doesn’t know him very well yet, but I do know he’s a tough son of a bitch. You’re a very sweet person. He might be too much for you.”

“Thank you for your concern, but I’m an adult. I’ll make my own decisions.”

“Not that long ago, you were letting me help with those decisions.”

“I might have asked for advice, but it always came down to what I wanted. If this is going to bother you so much, maybe you shouldn’t come back for a while.”

“No! I mean, it was a shock. I’m still and will always be here for you and Jayden.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ll see you soon. Call if you need me.”