Page 34 of Jenna's Protector

Joe wraps up his sketchbook and leaves, giving me a polite nod as he exits. Now, alone with Carter, the awkwardness returns, mingling with our simmering chemistry.

Carter clears his throat. “Would you like to grab some lunch? There’s a place nearby I think you’d like.”

“That sounds great.” I want to spend more time with him.

We head out, and I study his profile as Carter makes a quick call to his brother. The strong line of his jaw and how his eyes crinkle at the corners as he talks intrigue me. I’m noticing things I’ve never allowed myself to see before.

We arrive at a small, cozy pizza joint. The relaxed atmosphere, with its soft rock playing from an old jukebox, immediately puts me at ease. Sally, our waitress, approaches with a warm smile. Carter orders for us.

As Sally leaves, Carter leans in slightly. “I appreciate you sharing those sketches. It couldn’t have been easy to do.”

His words, his genuine gratitude, warm me from the inside out. For the first time in a long while, I feel like I’m doing something important.

TWELVE

Carter

As we finish our pizza,I’m reluctant to end our time together. An idea forms in my mind, and I clear my throat.

“Jenna, would you mind if we take a bit of a drive?”

“I’d love to, but what about my store?” Her eyes meet mine, curiosity sparking in their depths. “I should be getting back soon.”

“It wouldn’t be for too long,” I assure her. “Unless… Do you need to be back right away?”

“I can call Malia in to cover.” She hesitates for a moment, then smiles. “Where did you have in mind?”

“I want to check in with Blake about your sketches.”

“How can Guardian HRS help?” Jenna’s brow furrows slightly.

“I’m hoping I can get time on Guardian HRS’s computer systems. Beg, borrow, or steal,” I explain. “They might be able to locate some of the places you drew.”

“My sketches aren’t that good…” Jenna tilts her head, confusion evident in her expression.

“Blake mentioned Guardian HRS used photographs before to identify where hostages were being held. With the level of detail in your drawings, I’m hoping we can do something similar.”

“Really? That’s possible?” Her eyes widen in surprise.

“Their tech is far beyond anything we have at the station.” Enthusiasm creeps into my voice. “I’m planning to convince, connive, beg, and borrow if I have to, just to get a little time with that computer system.”

Jenna looks appropriately impressed and amazed. “Wow, I had no idea technology like that existed outside of movies. Do you think it could work?”

“It’s worth a shot.” I temper my own excitement. “If anyone can find these places, it’s Guardian HRS. So, what do you say? Up for a little road trip?”

“Absolutely. Let me just make that call to cover the shop.” Jenna’s smile broadens, lighting up her entire face.

As she steps away to arrange coverage, my anticipation surges—not just for the potential breakthrough in the case but for the chance to spend more time with her.

I pull out my phone and dial Blake’s number. He picks up on the second ring.

“Yo, bro! Howzit hanging?” Blake’s voice booms through the speaker.

“A little to the left, as usual. How’s it swinging on your end?” I can’t help but grin.

“Can’t complain, dude. What’s got you calling your favorite bro?”

“You’re my only brother. Need a favor, man. Got some sketches that might help with a case.”

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