As the firstlight of dawn breaks through the darkness, I lie wrapped in Nick’s arms, unwilling to move for fear I’ll wake him and the moment will be over.
I slept better than I have in months, and it had everything to do with the man next to me.
As if he can hear my inner thoughts, he rouses, his arms moving away, leaving me cold.
I audibly whine, and Nick chuckles. “My arm’s asleep,” he says, voice extra husky. “How did you sleep?” he asks, and I sigh.
“Like a baby. When do you have to leave?”
He clears his throat. “Early Wednesday.”
“How did you manage to get so much time off? I’d think they’d want this solved quickly considering the victim is your captain’s niece.”
He runs his hand back through his hair, mussing it in a way that has me itching to touch him.
“This break was ordered by Falls Haven’s captain.” He huffs. “He’s calling it a mental-health break.” He shakes his head. “Ithink he knows I’m incapable of truly cutting off the detective in me. It seems more likely he wanted me back here poking around without drawing attention.”
“Why?”
“My captain. He doesn’t want him knowing the details because of his connection to the victim. It muddies the investigation when emotion plays a factor.”
I guess I understand the logic.
He takes a deep breath and blows it out in a huff. “I…have a favor to ask you.”
I sit up, turning to face him. “What’s up?” I say, seeing the conflict in his expression.
He swallows, takes a deep breath, and looks me in the eye when he says, “Will you help me help Isla move on?”
“Of course. Whatever you need.”
As we walkinto my kitchen, I’m met with the sight of Isla sitting at the counter, looking ready to climb the walls.
“You know, you really suck for leaving me here. It’s been so damn boring,” she says, directing her complaint at me.
“I know, and I’m sorry. I had to focus on my friend and didn’t think it would be a good idea to drag you to New Orleans.”
She purses her lips, glaring at me. “I’ve never been. Wouldn’t have minded the change of scenery. Maybe I could’ve rubbed elbows with a few famous spirits.”
“I’m sorry,” I say, grimacing. “She’s been bored,” I explain to Nick, who nods in understanding.
“He knows I’m here,” she murmurs, mostly to herself.
I take a deep breath, knowing I need to facilitate the conversation between them, since Nick can’t see or hear the dead. “Isla, Nick is ready to help you move on,” I tell her gently.
She looks at Nick, her expression softening. “I knew he’d come through. When do we do it?”
“Now?” I say, shrugging one shoulder, in a way to indicate I’m on their schedule.
She jumps up from the chair, heading toward the door like a golden retriever ready for its walk.
“What are you waiting for? Send me packing.”
I chuckle, shaking my head. “She’s in a bit of a rush,” I tell Nick.
He smiles. “Sounds like her.”
Isla’s shoulders sag, and she turns back to Nick, her gaze fixed on him with a sorrowful smile gracing her lips, the love she held for him still shining through.
