Page 117 of Tortured Tones

While we waited for our food, Charlotte scooted over to the kids’ play area in the opposite corner to play with the box of toys.

Cole fidgeted with a napkin as he rested his hands on the table. “So, are you heading home tomorrow morning?”

“Yeah. I can’t wait to see Josh.”

“I bet.” He smoothed the napkin flat on the table. “You can tell me to mind my own business, but you were upset before. Is everything okay?”

“I hope so. Luther wanted to delay our custody hearing and take Josh out of the country on one of my scheduled weekends because he has to travel for work. I said no.”

“Good for you.”

“I’m tired of his games. I want the court hearing over.” Tears burned the backs of my eyes. Shit. Pull it together. I was working. “I don’t want his fingers around my throat anymore.”

“I hope you don’t mean that literally.”

“No.” I blinked my tears away. “I just want more time with Josh to settle into my new job and get on with my life.”

“You’re going to miss this though, aren’t you? Being in the field?”

“Yeah, I will.” I nodded. “I love my team. Every day is different. We meet so many interesting people and have a lot of fun behind the scenes.”

“So do we.” His gorgeous green eyes glinted in the soft light.

“So I’ve seen.” I tried not to smile.

“Hey?” He reached across the table and rubbed my hand. “Is there anything I can do to help you?”

“Do you know how to take down a narcissistic prick?”

“I wish I did.” He rubbed his thumb across the back of my hand. Warmth meandered up my arm. “But if you need anything for your hearing, a testimonial or character reference, I’ll give you one.”

“Thanks.” I pulled my hand free and wiped my palms on my work pants. The line between friends and work couldn’t be crossed while on duty. Focus.

Beckett tilted his head toward two customers. They took out their cell phones and took pictures of Cole, then giggled as they no doubt posted them online. So did the guy and girl over by the far wall. But that didn’t raise the hairs on my arm or warrant any concern. Beckett didn’t move another inch. All was okay...for now.

“I’m sorry Luther’s giving you a hard time.” Cole slumped his shoulders. “Kids certainly mess up your life.”

“Kids don’t mess it up. They change it.” Then I smirked and injected sarcasm into my tone. “Relationships with exes are completely different stories.”

He glanced at Charlotte building a tower with some wooden blocks. “I never had a relationship with Shelby, other than being friends. I understand why she never told me about Charlotte. I don’t want to share her with anyone. That makes me constantly worry about my final court assessment. I’m afraid the social worker will rule me unfit and take her away.” Worry darkened his eyes. “Losing Charlotte would kill me. She’s weaved her way into my soul with every smile, snotty nose, and tight hug. I finally understand that unexplainable, unconditional care, and protectiveness people have for their kids. I’d do anything for her.”

A tear slipped down my cheek.

“What?” His brows pinched together.

I swiped my damp cheek. “You continually surprise me. If you’re not careful, Mr. Tanner, I might actually begin to like you.”

He nudged my leg under the table with his knee. “I know you like me.”

“Yeah, I do. ”

As Charlotte grabbed a toy car and raced it across the floor, sadness glossed over his eyes. “She still doesn’t call me Dad.”

My heart sank into my stomach. “She will when she’s ready. It’s like you call her kid more than your daughter. You’re both still adjusting. Bonding. Learning to love and trust each other.”

As Ella arrived with our food, my gaze drifted past Cole’s ear. Two women in business suits rose from their chairs and headed to the counter to pay. Yes, it was cell phones they grabbed out of their purses. Nothing more threatening.

Charlotte raced across the floor to join us. “Yay. Ice cream.”

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