Page 13 of Wild Fires

“You're just quoting the textbooks now.”

“But that's a stereotype for a reason. Did you really study forensic science?”

“I did. And what I learned is that you take that stereotype as nothing more than a starting point. We're going to weigh these categories a little higher in our early investigation, but also, we're going to keep our options open—all our options.”

I wasn't always the most aware of the opposite sex, but I was pretty sure I was not imagining the innuendos he was tossing my way. The question became . . . what was I going to do about it?

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. This was insane, or I was just dreaming because Ryan and I had absolutely nothing in common and I was not interested in even a fling with him.

Nope, not in the least.

Ryan

Chapter 5

By the time we wrapped up the second site it was past lunchtime.

“I'm starving. How about we grab a bite to eat before we head over to the next one?”

“Um, that's not necessary. I can just meet you later.”

“Don't be ridiculous. We're right here.”

“No, that's okay.”

“Is there some reason you don't want to eat at The Diner?”

That was my sister Gia's place, and it was by far the best restaurant in all of Ravenden, and I wasn't even biased about that. Well, I was, but everyone agreed about it.

“There's nothing wrong with The Diner. I eat there all the time.”

“Then let's go grab some lunch.”

“No thank you.”

“Why? I'm hungry.”

“Then you should go eat and I'll meet you later.”

“Why?”

“What?”

“Tell me why you don't want to go to lunch there?”

“It's not there. I don't want to go to lunch with you.”

I scowled. “But why?”

As crazy as it sounded, I was having a good time working this case with her. I thought we were actually getting along, and it felt like there was even some sexual tension there. When she said we should keep our minds open to anything, I had gotten the feeling she wasn't just talking about the case.

Was I really that off?

I felt like a perv. I'd been thinking about her all day, and as crazy as it was, I definitely wanted more than just to solve this case. Not like a relationship or anything, but a one-night stand would do us both some good.

“Because I don't want to be seen with you,” she blurted out.

“Wow. Okay.”

---