“You’re the same. When you want to accomplish something, you stop at nothing. You’ll push until you solve the case. And I know when you’re not on the clock, you’re investigating your mom’s death. But don’t let it consume you, Michael.”
“Don’t you think she deserves justice?” He looked at her incredulously.
“Of course I do. But at the end of it, you won’t get her back. And what happens if you can’t solve it? Will you spend your whole life always searching? Never living? You could end up with something worse than pneumonia. A life of regret.”
Instead of answering, his mouth closed in a grim line.
“Your family is worried about you. Josh too. They say you’re so busy working, running the household, and investigating the murder that you’re losing yourself.”
“You sound like my partner.” He stilled. “Wait a minute. Was this all a setup to get me out of the house? Is that why you wanted me to come today?” A hint of vulnerability in his voice sent a pang through her chest.
She couldn’t lie.
“There was no conspiracy here. We wanted to go on a hike. And Liza wanted you to get used to the idea of her and Finn.”
“But you. Why did you come?” He stepped closer. His brown eyes studied her intently, probably analyzing her reaction. But they also seemed to be searching, looking down to her very core. “Did you really come just to rescue me from working myself to death?”
She dug for a lighthearted response. “It sounded fun. And you know me. I’m always up for a good time.”
“I do know you.” Another step closer. “And I know I’m not the only one good at avoiding things. I might work a lot, but that’s not the only way a person can distract himself.”
She rolled her eyes. “Come on, Mike. You’re taking this way too seriously. I came because I wanted to hike and enjoy the day with my friends. And now I’m getting hungry, so let’s?—”
He stepped into her space and gently tucked a wayward strand of hair off her cheek. His touch ignited everything inside her, consumed all thought, all reason, all logic.
“Why did you kiss me the other night? At the truck shop.”
She tried to look away and brush off his question. “I…don’t know.” She grinned and stepped to the side. “Why don’t?—”
He sidestepped her, blocking her path. “You said it yourself. I’m relentless. I’m not going to stop until you answer the question.”
“Why?” She shouldn’t ask, but she couldn’t help it. Some crazy, hungry part of her soul wanted to know.
“Because I’m falling for you, Dani.”
Her mouth dropped open. Had he really said those words? “Me?”
He nodded slowly. “There’s something here between us, and I think you know that too. But you’re avoiding it.”
“If I’m avoiding it, why did I come today? Hmmm?” She raised an eyebrow. “Like I said. I came to enjoy a hike with my?—”
“Don’t say it.” His finger closed her mouth, slowly traced her lips.
She couldn’t breathe.
“We’ve known each other most of our lives. And ever since you came back, I don’t know, but it’s different. You’re more than just a friend. Why are you afraid of it?”
“I’m not afraid.” She lifted her chin.
His serious look grew amused. “Wanna prove it?”
“How?”
“Kiss me. One peck on the lips. If it doesn’t stir you, fine. I’ll never speak of it again. But?—”
“But what?”
“If you do see that there’s more to this than friendship, promise me you’ll give me a chance.”
