Page 42 of Breaking Rules

Sam’s mind raced, trying to connect the dots. He kept his expression neutral as he replied, “Hopefully, the evidence will take care of that.”

Beryl’s lips curved into a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Don’t be too sure, Chief. Lucas has a new lawyer, and he thinks the evidence is a bit... flimsy.”

Sam’s thoughts flashed back to the golf shoes Beryl had given him, the very evidence that had helped put Lucas Thorne behind bars. A nagging suspicion crept into his mind. Did Beryl know something about those shoes that he didn’t?

Sam moved toward the door, signaling the end of their conversation.

Beryl stood up. “Are you done interrogating me, Chief Mason?” Her tone was sharp, a challenge in her eyes.

Sam paused, his hand on the doorknob. “It wasn’t an interrogation, Beryl. Just questions.”

“Be careful, Chief Mason,” she said, her eyes glinting with a veiled threat. “Digging can unearth more than just answers. Sometimes, it’s better to let sleeping dogs lie.”

Sam nodded, acknowledging her warning. Lucy was already at the door, impatient to leave, her gaze still fixed on Beryl.

As Sam walked out into the crisp evening air, a thought nagged at him. Beryl had never denied that Victor had a limo. It was a small detail, but it stuck out in his mind like a burr.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

Kevin spent the rest of the day chasing down information on Feldman and following up on the social media of Alex Sheridan. He didn’t find much. The guy had no enemies.

“Bridget!” Reese’s voice carried in from the reception area. “Wow, looks like you’ve been busy.”

The sweet smell of fresh-baked pies wafted in a few seconds before Bridget appeared in the squad room, a wicker basket of food dangling from her arm. “Special delivery!” Bridget announced cheerfully, setting the basket down on a nearby table.

She carefully placed a pie and a casserole in front of Jo, who looked up from her work with a grateful smile. “Thanks, Bridget. Garvin’s going to love this.”

Bridget then turned to Kevin, presenting him with his own set of homemade goodies. “And for you, Detective Deckard.”

Kevin grinned as he accepted the offering. “You didn’t have to do this, Bridget.”

She shrugged, a playful glint in her eye. “Consider it a thank-you for your concern earlier.”

Wyatt, who had been quietly observing the exchange, smirked as he slipped on his jacket. “Those look delicious.” He glanced at the clock. “And just in time for quitting hour.”

“Speaking of which…” Jo gathered her things, including the food from Bridget, and headed for the door right behind Wyatt. “I better get these to Garvin while they’re still warm. Thanks again, Bridget.”

As Jo left, Reese popped her head into the room. “Hey, Bridge! When does chef school start?”

Bridget’s face lit up with excitement. “Next week! I can’t wait to get started.”

Reese’s phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen. “Oh shoot, I gotta run. Dentist appointment.” She waved a quick goodbye and hurried out.

And then there were two.

Kevin found himself suddenly nervous as he stood there with Bridget, the delectable pie and casserole between them. He hesitated, his mind racing with the possibility of extending their time together.

Kevin peered into the basket, admiring the golden crusts and savory aromas. “These look incredible. You’ve really outdone yourself.”

Bridget beamed at the compliment, a hint of pride in her smile. “Thanks. I hope they taste as good as they look.”

Kevin nodded, his stomach rumbling in anticipation. Then, before he could second-guess himself, he casually said, “It would be a shame to eat all this alone. Maybe you’d like to join me? My place is just a few blocks away.”

Bridget’s eyebrows rose in surprise, but a pleased expression quickly followed. At least, Kevin hoped it was a pleased expression. His heart hammered in his chest as he awaited her response.

“I’d love to. That sounds perfect.”

Relief and excitement flooded through him as he returned her smile. “Great! Let me just grab my coat, and we can head out.”

---