Page 20 of Between Two Shores

“I agree there’s a need for further investigation.” He cleared his throat. “Now, about your request for exclusive rights to the story, I’m not sure if I can promise such a thing.”

Beth placed her palm over the folder and spoke in a firm, low voice. “Sir, I could sensationalize this story across news headlines tomorrow. But . . . ” She paused for effect. “The developers will back off, cover their tracks, and get away with . . . Quokka murder.”

The man smirked.

“Sir, I’m serious. These terrible, terrible, money-hungry swindlers, need to be brought to justice.” Beth slapped the file. “And, your team can bring that victory.”

Sergeant Andrews rocked back into his chair and gave her a golf-clap. “Nice speech, Miss Michaels.” He chuckled. “Look, if we find some solid evidence and arrest someone, we will let you know so you’ll have first dibs on the story. Have a press release drafted and ready to go. That’s all I can offer you.”

Beth’s insides bubbled with excitement as she rose from her seat. “Sir, that’s wonderful. I appreciate your co-operation.”

He shook his head. She must appear like the try-hard-reporter nitwit she wanted to avoid.

Sergeant Andrews stood and leaned across his desk, offering his hand. “Thank you for coming forward with this information.”

Beth gripped his hand in a firm, manly handshake. His large leathery hold dominated and swallowed her smaller one. Oh, well.

“Thank you, sir. Please, keep me informed. My card is in the folder.”

He gave her an amused smile. “Will do.”

Chapter Eight

Lachlan

Lachlan sat hunched over on his bed, staring at the photo of Beth snuggled against his chest for the Quokka selfie. Her magnificent smile, magnetic eyes, and natural beauty caused a defeated sigh. She had him.

He studied his face in the picture too. He looked happy. That day on Rottnest Island was the best day he’d had in three years. Beth seemed uninhibited, free to speak her mind, funny, and although she wore modest clothing, the woman drove him crazy. How had he resisted kissing her with all the opportunity she’d given him? And to the point of Beth asking him to on their last day together. Gee. Talk about making it difficult for a guy.

Seven days had passed, and he’d willed himself not to contact her yet. He didn’t want to stir up feelings for either of them. If they communicated too much, it could make his stay on the ship unproductive. He’d be wanting another life—one he couldn’t have right now.

Lachlan switched off his phone, stood, and stretched side to side. The gym would help work off the extra energy that Beth Michaels had created. An hour of exercise, followed by a shower, would have him collapse into bed, and sound asleep in no time.

BETH

Fourteen days and no word from Lachlan. Should she simply email the guy? Maybe tell him about the investigation, keep it formal, and start a conversation.

Beth crossed her legs at the ankles with her feet propped on the ottoman. The laptop grew hot, and its fan whirled in protest. She opened her email app and drafted a message to Lachlan.

Hello from down under,

I’ve been waiting for your email. You must be busy.

Delete, delete, delete. She corrected her posture and raised her chin.

Hi Lachlan,

Just letting you know, I saw the police investigator last week. I gave him your email address in case he needed more information from you. Have they been in contact?

Hope you’re doing okay.

Beth.

Send.

Shuffled footsteps grew louder behind the sofa. Beth shut the laptop, placed it to the side, and looked over her shoulder.

“Hi, Melissa. You still up?”

---