“Captain got special permission since it’s outside our jurisdiction. They agreed but specified that he can’t work the case.”
“He’s too close to it.”
Nick nods. “I’m surprised they’re allowing me to assist.” He blows out a harsh breath. “I was really looking forward to tonight. I feel like shit, ditching you.”
“Like I said, I understand. You’ve got a job to do.”
And I do. It doesn’t suck any less, but this is his job, and considering Chelsea is a relative to the captain, what could Nick possibly do? It’s not like he could refuse.
“I’ll be fine. It appears that Lanie doesn’t have plans, and I know Nina really didn’t. I’ll hang with them. Maybe we can try to get Chelsea to move on.”
He grumbles something, running his hand back through his hair and messing up the carefully styled locks. “It’s a fucking shame that nobody but me and your friends gets to see you in that dress, Alyssa.” His husky voice and darkened eyes make my blood pulse in my ears.
“We’ll just have to find another event for me to wear it to.”
He smiles, leaning over and kissing me hard. I melt into him, opening my mouth to his tongue and relishing this moment. If it’s all I get, I’ll take it greedily.
He pulls away, head against mine as he groans. “I’m sorry.”
Most would think he’s apologizing yet again for needing to bail tonight, but I know that’s not what he’s referencing. I could feel the shift in his kiss. The way he was all in and then suddenly withdrew.
He thought about Isla.
He’s likely wondering if she’s here.
I clear my throat, pulling away and sitting up straight. “She’s not here.”
Nick doesn’t speak, but I see the way his chest expands.
“I’ll make this up to you. I promise,” he says, and I wave a hand in the air.
“All good.”
Nick turns back to the wheel, putting the car in drive andmaking a U-turn in the center of the next cross street. We’re heading back toward my house, and the silence is heavy. Neither one of us says a word, making it uncomfortable.
He pulls into the driveway and puts the car in park, turning toward me.
“Thank you for being so easygoing about this. I know you’re disappointed. I am too.” His eyes shift, and his fingers tap against the steering wheel.
I can tell he wants to say something but is struggling with it.
“Nick, I—”
He cuts me off. “I didn’t mean to act weird when we kissed. It’s just a very tricky situation for me. Isla is gone, and I know that. Even if her spirit is lingering. But I’d be lying if I said a part of me didn’t feel terrible thinking about her seeing me with someone else.” He grimaces. “Does that make sense?”
I nod once. “Perfect sense, and I understand. Truly, Nick. It feels wrong to me too, and I didn’t even know her.”
He takes a deep breath, tapping the steering wheel again. “We’ll figure this out.”
I smile and grab my bag, opening the door to climb out.
“Be safe,” I say. “Send me a text when you make it to your destination.”
“I will.” He runs his hands back through his hair again. “Happy New Year, Alyssa.”
One can only hope.
11
