“How about seven? I think the girls are planning for then, too.”
“I can do that. I’ve got to get back to work though if you want me there. So I’ll see you later tonight.” I wave to my three brothers and push through the doors to our offices.
“Wyatt!”
Stopping and closing my eyes, I take in a deep breath. Why is everyone hell bent on aggravating me today?
“Yes, Chief?” I ask through gritted teeth.
“Come in here, please? And you can leave whatever that damn attitude is at the door. It ain’t my fault, whatever it is.”
Goddamn it.
“Sorry, Chief.” I step in half-way, leaning on the doorframe instead of coming in to sit because I have no desire to spend that much time in his office.
“Shut the door. Have a seat.” He motions to the chair in front of him.
Awesome. Love this for me.
I do as he says, even if I don’t want to.
“I want you to take the detective’s test.” He doesn’t wait or ease into that statement.
“Why? Is Stone retiring?” Not like Balsam Cliffs needs a second detective.
“You keep this between us. But up toward Hemlock Cove is experiencing some increased crime beyond what our small stations can handle on a daily basis. So we decided to put together a task force of people we trust. You’re the people I trust.”
“I… What…” I stammer, trying to figure out what he’s asking. “You want me to be on a task force? For what type of crime? Why?”
“Son, I know you’re down on yourself about what happened with Jack, but the way you handled the situation really impressed me. There’s an increase in drug-related crime along the coast. You can think about it, but I want you to take the detective’s test. Let me know your answer whenever you’re ready.”
“Okay.” I don’t know what else to say. Becoming a detective isn’t something I’ve thought about. Working outside of Balsam Cliffs also isn’t something I’ve thought about.
Hell, becoming a cop wasn’t something I thought about either. I saw the post for the job, came home for the weekend, and talked to Chief. Next thing I knew, I was moved home, living at the inn, and going through the academy. I completed my field training two years ago, and now he wants me to be a detective?
Your life can really change in an instant when you find your fiancée in bed with your best friend and best man a week before the wedding.
“I’ll let you get back to work. But let me know what you decide.”
I shake his outstretched hand and leave, hoping to get in my cruiser and patrol town without finding Adam, who’ll want to come with me.
Only a few more hours.
Walking into Rebels, I’m exhausted. After physical therapy this morning, my face hurts. And I’d much rather be at home on my couch watching the Sox play.
I see my brothers lined up at the bar with an open seat right in the middle of them.
“Hey, Wyatt!”
I freeze. Of course she’s here tonight. “Hey, Tiff.”
“What are you doing here tonight? I figured you’d be tired after work.”
How does she always know my schedule?
“I’m exhausted, but my brothers forced me out.” I point over to them. “I should probably get over there. The sooner I drink my beer, the sooner I can go home.”
She steps into my space, grabbing my bicep. “Are you sure you don’t want to grab a drink with me first?” She’s batting her eyes and using that sickly sweet voice on me.
