Page 11 of Creed

“Yes, ma’am.” He winked at her, causing her heart to race.

He put the truck in gear and drove them back to the house, pulling up beside the porch.

“Would you like some coffee before you go? It’ll help warm you up.”

He hesitated briefly, but then nodded.

“That would be great, thank you.”

“Okay, come inside.” She opened the door and braced herself against the snow as she ran up the steps. She heard Creed laughing behind her, but she was too cold to care and just needed to get inside.

He wiped his feet on the mat and removed his hat as he followed her. She held the door for him and they entered the kitchen.

“You can take off your coat and hang it up. I’ll make you a cup of coffee.” She hung up her own coat and beanie before going to the coffee machine, inserting a K-cup, and pressing brew.

She stood by the kitchen counter; her arms crossed as she observed Creed. He met her gaze with equal intensity as he took off his coat and hung it on a chair. His hat found its place on the seat.

“Did you see anything out there, Agent?” her grandfather inquired upon entering the room.

“I’m sorry, sir. The snow made it almost impossible to spot anything,” Creed replied. “I did manage to snap some photos of the tracks though.”

“Don’t worry about it, son. You’re doing your best.”

“I’ll run them through the database, but I couldn’t make out where they went,” Creed continued.

“I figured as much with the snow,” her grandfather said understandingly.

“Yes, sir. But I won’t give up on it.”

“I know you won’t. You livestock agents always go above and beyond, and I appreciate that.” Her grandfather then turned to Abbie. “I’m going to watch my shows now, sweetie. Come join me once you’ve warmed up.”

“I will, Pap,” Abbie promised.

“Creed, it was nice meeting you. I’m sure we’ll see each other again.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll keep in touch.” Creed shook his hand.

“Here’s your coffee,” Abbie said as she placed a steaming cup in front of him.

“Thanks.” He took a sip from the cup.

“Please, have a seat.”

“I’ll stand, thanks. I’ll finish my coffee then head out. I want to start examining those tracks.”

“Alright...” she trailed off, staring at him.

Creed finished his coffee, placed the cup in the sink and turned to face her. “Thank you for showing me where to go,” he said with a smirk, causing her to laugh.

“No problem. I hope you find something.”

“Me too, although with this weather it’ll be tough. Once the snow clears up, hopefully I’ll have a better chance at spotting the tracks.”

“So, springtime then?” She flashed a smile.

“If we’re lucky.” He put on his coat. “Do you live here?”

“No, I have a townhouse near the hospital. I come to visit my grandfather on my days off.”

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