Page 45 of Copper Script
“I’d prefer you to say that as if you think it’s possible.”
“I find it easier to believe in the graphology.”
“Ooh.”
Wildsmith grinned at him, the familiar spark of mischief glinting in his eyes.Aaron found he was smiling back.As if his indomitable attitude was contagious; as if the crushing weight of fear and responsibility was something he could leave outside Wildsmith’s door, just tonight.
As if...
“I do think I can trust you,” he said.“That still leaves the question of whether you might be able to trust me.”
The words landed in silence.Not uncomfortable, more a quivering awareness that he’d taken a step forward.A moment of recalibration.
Wildsmith’s eyes didn’t leave his face.“We could put that to the test too, Detective Sergeant.If you wanted.Though if you’d prefer gin and toast—”
“What test do you have in mind?”
Wildsmith took a deep breath.“I could make an indecent approach and see if you arrest me?”
Aaron’s heart was thundering.This was terrifying and dangerous and stupid, but so was everything else in his life.He’d been afraid and despairing, and now he wasn’t alone.And Wildsmith was lovely.
“Go on, then,” he said.
CHAPTER NINE
JOEL WASN’T ENTIRELYsure how to do this.
It was probably the worst-timed come-on he’d ever given and certainly the most reckless.He could have just left the offer of tea and sympathy on the table.Fowler had looked shocked, lost and hurting, but he was a big boy, he’d manage.
Only, there was that fizzing spark between them.And Fowler had harked back to that crackling moment in the pub, and God damn it, Joel lived on his intuition.He might as well stand on it.
He put down his glass and rose.Fowler looked at him, confused, then stood too.Joel stepped closer.
“Hello,” he said softly.“My name’s Joel.You’ve got gorgeous eyes.”
“Aaron.”
