Page 14 of Seized by the Lawman

“I know.” Nix squeezed the bridge of his nose. “I do believe he’s really looking out for her best interest. From what I know she isn’t known for making the best choices, especially when it comes to relationships. And because he sees a glass ceiling on how much longer he has to protect her, he must feel this is his last opportunity to make sure she steps up to the plate.”

“Didn’t you say he threatened to sell the place?”

Shrugging, he said, “I think he’s pulling her chain.”

“Isn’t that what he’s doing to you? He knew you wouldn’t—couldn’t—say no. But when this whole scheme explodes, and it will, you better run for cover.”

“Stay positive. This could go as smooth as still waters.” If only Nix didn’t feel a stab in his chest at the mere thought.

Kace laughed and buddy-slapped Nix on the shoulder. “Better you than me. I’d tell him to take his job, and his assignment, and shove it—”

“Can’t and won’t. I have respect for the guy.”

“You’re too damn good of a lawman to be stuck babysitting some chic who is going to turn you inside out. Just sayin’. You’ve fought in some of the most dangerous places in the world and you should be hunting criminals. That’s why you joined the Hawks. You want to catch criminals and save lives. Me? I like being Sheriff of a laid-back town. On occasion we do get the crazies.”

“Yeah? What happened?”

“Do you remember the Posey girl who was found hanging from the bannister at her rich boyfriend’s house? Ruled a suicide.”

Nix thought about the case a moment. “Back when Deatty was Sheriff? Around three years ago?”

Kace nodded. “Well, her sister, Tyler, is back in town and she wants answers.”

“Answers? On a case that’s closed?”

“She thinks because Deatty is out of office and I’m here, I’ll reopen it and rule it a homicide.”

Nix could see the twitch in his brother’s jaw. “Wait, didn’t you date Tyler Posey back when we were kids?”

“For all of five minutes, yes.”

“Good luck, my man. Maybe you should be preaching to yourself. I remember how you were so in love with her.”

“Then your memory sucks. Mark my word though, you’re in for a ride. I can see it now. Phoenix won’t be the only one getting hitched.”

“So, you get your invitation to Phoenix’s wedding then?” Nix asked.

“Yeah. Can you believe it? One of us are getting married, but I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the idea that he meets someone on Monday and is marrying her on Tuesday.” Kace shook his head.

“A little dramatic there, buddy. I know it’s quick, but Phoenix has his head on straight and I haven’t seen him this happy in…well, never.”

“Hey, I’m not knocking the fact that he’s getting married. Maybe it’ll get Ma and Pa off the rest of our backs for a while.”

“Don’t count on it. Zander’s next. Since he’s the youngest he’s going to put the heat on you, Cull and me. He’s making us look bad.” He paced the length of the porch, noticing the group of deer munching on grass close to the edge of the woods. He enjoyed living here, away from neighbors, and hated that he’d be leaving already. “At least you’ll be hanging out here while I’m gone to feed the horses. Don’t forget I have the contractor coming to finish the barn and fencing. The gravel will be delivered tomorrow. And most importantly, no parties, and I’m talking the party of two variety.”

“Sure, Pa. Any other rules?”

“Only one other. Clean up after yourself.”

“Hey, I know my way around a dust rag.”

“You sure didn’t prove it when we lived at home.”

“You just worry about taking care of your assignment.” Kace snorted. “That’s going to keep you busy enough.”

Nix soaked in Kace’s words. Although wanting to keep a positive spin on the assignment, truth was, Nix couldn’t deny this whole thing had his ass puckered. He’d slept with the boss’s daughter, and now he would be near her, and without a doubt he’d have to somehow wipe all thoughts of her, naked and under him, from his thoughts. Keeping his pants zipped was crucial, not that it should be a problem since Melly had made it clear she wasn’t interested, although the swelling of her nipples told a different story. Maybe he should forget everything he’d shared with her and concentrate on Hope—the bombshell fox that waitressed at the diner. She’d made it indisputably clear while he was eating his ham melt that she was interested, and at the time, he’d been more interested in gulping down his lunch than eyeing the deep cleavage she’d gone to a lot of trouble to tease him with.

Sure…Hope would do nicely.

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